Asphalt shingles have long been the standard of the roofing industry, holding their title as the most popular roofing material in the United States for decades. They offer a variety of benefits for homeowners, but they also come with their own set of drawbacks. Take a look at this guide to learn more about the pros and cons of asphalt shingle roofs and find out if they are the right option for your home!
Pros:
Cost: If you are interested in replacing your roof on a budget, asphalt shingles are your best option. They are inexpensive to manufacture, which results in an economical roofing option for homeowners.
Easy Installation: When it comes to installation, there is no easier roofing material to install than asphalt shingles. Slate roofing is heavy and brittle, which makes it easy to break. Metal roofing is complex to install, which makes it easier to install incorrectly. If you are able to find a contractor who installs roofs, they most likely work with asphalt shingles. If you are interested in installing a roofing material that just about any contractor will be able to work on, asphalt shingles are your best option.
Aesthetics: Asphalt shingles are available in an enormous array of style and color options. If you are interested in using your roof to help create a particular aesthetic for your home, asphalt shingles are your best bet. With so many manufacturers, you can find asphalt shingles in nearly any color or style, and at any budget. This makes them fantastic if you have a particular style in mind for your roof.
Long Lasting: Asphalt shingles longevity can vary greatly depending on the quality of the shingle On the low end, inexpensive asphalt shingles might only last for 15 years or less. However, if you are willing to spend a bit more for a higher-quality product, there are asphalt shingles that have the potential to last for 50 years or more! Overall, the average asphalt shingle lasts for about 20-30 years, meaning you may only need to replace your home’s roof once!
Cons
Environmental Impact: If you are interested in choosing an environmentally friendly material for your home’s roof, there are better options. The manufacturing of asphalt shingles requires the use of asphalt shingles, which makes them an unsustainable option. Additionally, while slate and metal roofing are recyclable, asphalt shingles are not and they end up comprising a large portion of the United States annual waste, with some estimates placing the number as high as 5%! If you are interested in installing a roofing material that lowers your home’s carbon footprint, there are better options than asphalt shingles.
Maintenance: Asphalt shingle roofs require periodic maintenance to keep up. You will need to clean debris off of your roof, and out of your gutters, clean off any algae or moss growth that occurs on your roof, and also periodically examine the flashing to ensure that your roof deck isn’t amassing any water damage.
Have more questions about installing asphalt shingles on your home? Reach out to our team at (781) 893-4546 or by filling out our online contact form! We look forward to helping you with any of your roofing needs!