Asphalt shingles are the most popular type of roofing in the US. In fact, 80% of roofs in the country are made from asphalt.
Many people choose this roofing style because it’s relatively low cost and because it has fairly good all-round protective properties. However, there are some downsides to a shingle roof that are important to consider. This blog post offers more information on when and when not to choose asphalt shingles.
When to choose asphalt shingles
You’re on a tight budget
Asphalt shingles are one of the most affordable roof choices. This is particularly the case if you choose three-tab shingles (architectural and laminated shingles cost more but will last longer. Metal and timber roofs could cost 20% to 100% more than an asphalt roof.
You want a roof that’s easy to install and easy to fix
Known for being very easy to install, asphalt roofs can be replaced relatively quickly and with little disruption provided that you choose a reputable roofing company. Replacing individual broken and missing shingles is also easy.
You want to reduce your energy bills
While it’s true that cheap standard asphalt shingles won’t offer much insulation on their own, there are premium and specialist options you can choose that can be excellent for reducing energy bills – dark-colored laminated shingles can trap in heat in cool climates to reduce electric heating costs, while light-colored ‘cool roof’ shingles can reflect heat in warm climates for more efficient air conditioning.
You want to protect your home against fires
Many modern asphalt shingles have a class A fire rating. As a result, they’re an excellent choice in areas that are prone to wildfires, potentially preventing your home from catching alight
When NOT to choose asphalt shingles
You’ve got a flat roof
Asphalt roofs are designed to shed water and not hold it – and therefore cannot be used on flat roofs or low-pitched roofs. EPDM rubber and GRP fiberglass are better flat roof choices.
You live in a hurricane-prone area
High-impact rated asphalt shingles do exist and these can withstand very high winds. However, these roofs may not be able to take the force of a hurricane – metal or concrete roofs are the best solution in locations where high wind speeds occur.
You’re super serious about sustainability
Certain asphalt shingles may be able to help reduce energy consumption and cut carbon emissions, but it’s important to note that asphalt shingles are petroleum-based products that are generally very difficult to recycle. Metal and wood are more sustainable choices in this regard.
You want a roof that will last 100 years
There’s no guarantee any roof will last 100 years, however a material like slate is much more likely to last for years to come than asphalt. In fact, most asphalt shingle roofs only last about 20 to 30 years max. Good roof maintenance will prolong the life of your roof, but even then it won’t last 100 years, so if you’re looking to invest in a roof that lasts generations, don’t choose asphalt shingles.
