Did you know that over 75% of Americans have an asphalt roof? Asphalt shingles are popular due to their low cost, easy installation, and various colors and styles.
If you’re considering getting a new roof for your home, you might wonder if an asphalt roof is the best option for you. Your first step is to learn the pros and cons of this type of roof. This way, you’ll have the facts you need to make the best decision possible.
In this guide, you’ll learn about the pros and cons of an asphalt roof to see if it’s right for your home!
Advantages of Asphalt Roof Shingles
Asphalt shingles are a popular roof replacement option with many advantages. First, asphalt shingles are durable and effective. It’s a common roofing material that can withstand weather elements, keeping you dry and safe.
You also won’t have to worry about rust or corrosion as you do with metal roofing.
Other advantages include the following:
Easy Installation
Asphalt shingles are relatively easy to install. They’re lighter and easier to cut than other roofing materials like metal or tile. Due to this, the roofing company you hire won’t have to do as much work prepping the shingles for installation.
They also don’t require any special equipment or tools. This makes installing asphalt shingles faster because less labor is involved.
Easy to Replace
When it comes to roof repairs, asphalt shingles are easy to replace. First, with asphalt roofs, you can replace individual shingles instead of replacing the entire roof.
Asphalt shingles are also easy to install, but if you don’t have roofing experience, it’s best not to try it on your own. If you notice damage to your shingles, you’ll need to call an experienced roofing company in your area to get an inspection.
Lower Cost
The cost of an asphalt roof depends on whether you’re going with a new roof or getting a roof repair. On average, asphalt shingles will cost you about $1 to $6 per square foot. In comparison, a metal roof will cost between $8 and $20 per square foot.
Keep in mind this cost can vary depending on the price of materials where you live. Your labor costs can also vary depending on how difficult your previous roofing material is to remove.
Long Life Span
Another reason asphalt is one of the best roofing options is its long life span. Asphalt shingles can last from 15 to over 20 years if you maintain them properly.
Thicker asphalt shingles can sometimes last well over 30 years or longer.
When you have an asphalt roof, you’ll need to ensure you get professional roofing inspections from a reputable roofing company in your area. Getting a roof inspection after a strong storm and before storm season will ensure your asphalt roof lasts as long as possible.
Different Colors and Styles
You have almost unlimited style and color options with asphalt shingles. While brown and black are the most popular choices, you can choose red, green, or blue asphalt shingles. You can even mix different shades and tones to create a vintage look if you have an older home.
You can also find asphalt shingles in different styles, like three-tab shingles, which have tabs and cutouts lined along the edges. Each shingle appears as multiple pieces but is actually one large piece. This design gives them a more uniform and flat appearance.
Architectural shingles or dimensional singles have multiple layers, which gives your roof more dimension.
Asphalt shingles are a great option if you want a roof that complements your shutters and siding colors.
Disadvantages of Asphalt Roof Shingles
Even though there are a lot of advantages to asphalt shingles, there are disadvantages you’ll need to consider when looking at this type of roofing.
The first thing to look at is the durability of asphalt. Although standard asphalt shingles can last up to 20 years when properly maintained, it isn’t the most durable roofing option.
For example, metal roofing is guaranteed to last 50 years or longer. A tile roof also lasts twice as long as an asphalt roof.
Other disadvantages you’ll need to consider include the following:
Can Be Prone to Storm Damage
Asphalt shingles can be damaged or ripped completely off during a storm with strong winds. Less expensive versions of asphalt shingles can more easily lift off your roof during a storm.
When this happens, your roof becomes more vulnerable to leaks and water damage.
Asphalt Shingles Can Crack
Asphalt shingles are light, and due to this, they can crack when there are extreme temperature fluctuations. This is because they expand and contract during temperature changes.
Additionally, extremely hot temperatures can cause cracks and splintering.
Asphalt Shingles Can Get Algae and Moss
If your roof is in a shaded area, algae and moss can grow on the shingles. If you don’t remove it immediately, it can spread to other areas of your roof.
Roof algae appear like black stains on your roof, mainly occurring during warm, humid summers. Although algae typically won’t damage your roof, it can make it look unsightly.
A mixture of half bleach and half water sprayed on the roof can take care of the problem. You’ll also need to schedule a roofing inspection during the summer months.
A professional roofing company is experienced in these types of issues and can determine the best plan of action to deal with the problem safely.
Contact a Professional Roofing Company Today
Now that you know more about the pros and cons of an asphalt roof, you’ll be able to make a more informed decision.
If you’re looking for a professional roofing company in your area, you won’t have to look any further than Mid-State Construction and Roofing. We offer residential and commercial roofing services that include asphalt, metal, metal retrofit, and more.
Our professional team will evaluate your current roof to determine whether you need a new roof or roof repairs. We offer free roof consultations, so be sure to contact us today to schedule an inspection and get an estimate!