The Advantages & Disadvantages of Asphalt Roof Shingles

What are the most common roof types used? The most used roofing material used in the US is asphalt roof shingles, and this is primarily because shingles are the most affordable option for most homeowners. There are many advantages to asphalt shingles including their affordability, installation, repair process, and style. At the same time, there are many disadvantages to shingles includes its vulnerability to weather damage, shorter life expectancy, lack of energy efficiency, and susceptibility to moss and mildew.

4 Advantages to Using Asphalt Roof Shingles

• Affordable: Asphalt composite shingles are one of the most affordable roofing materials available. This cost affordable option makes it easy for homeowners on a budget to obtain a new roof without needing to break the bank. Affordability plays a huge roll in the decisions we make, especially as it relates to home projects. Therefore, choosing the most cost affordable option for a roof while at the same time ensuring you receive quality roofing material to get the job done can be a tough balance to hold. Asphalt composite shingles provide both quality and affordability, helping you to achieve that balance.

• Easy-to-Install: Asphalt composite shingles are much easier to handle because they come in smaller and lighter pieces as compared to long sheets of metal or heavy pieces of slate. This helps to reduce labor cost when having a professional install your roofing. Installation also goes a lot faster when easier-to-handle material is being used. This allows you to have time in your day to do other things besides being home to make sure your roofing installation goes right.

• Easy to Replace: With asphalt roofing shingles coming in lighter and smaller pieces, they are far easier to replace. This can save you money in the long run-in case a shingle ever gets damaged. Paying for the repair of a single shingle is far more cost effective than, for example, paying for an entire sheet of metal.

• Fit Any Style: Asphalt shingles come in a variety of styles and colors that you can choose to fit your home’s style. Because of the flexibility of asphalt shingles, it can fit any unique shape of your home. Having asphalt composite shingles does not mean you have to compromise on the aesthetic appeal of your home. Asphalt composite shingles offer you the opportunity to customize the aesthetic appeal of your home by choosing a variety of colors and texture.

4 Disadvantages to Using Asphalt Roof Shingles

• Vulnerable to Wind Damage: Because of the material of asphalt composite shingles, if not installed correctly they are vulnerable to wind damage and could be ripped off your roof by high winds. Cracking and damage can also be caused by large hail and/or extreme heat or cold weather. It may be of value to you to schedule an inspection after a major storm just to ensure no roof damage was done. You can also visibly inspect your roof yourself for roof damage.

• Shorter Life Expectancy: Because of the material of Asphalt Composite Shingles, its overall life expectancy is 15-30 years before a replacement would be needed. Given that most mortgages are either a 15-year or 30-year mortgage, this runs parallel to the expected life expectancy of an asphalt composite roof allowing you to enjoy the full benefit of your roofing materials.

• Not Energy Efficient: Asphalt composite shingles is not as energy efficient as compared to metal roofing. Although, you will get some energy efficiency with brand new shingles, it is not known for being energy efficient.

• Mold & Mildew Issue: If you live in a home that is covered in shade, then your roof could be susceptible to mold and mildew. Asphalt composite shingles can absorb moisture more easily compared to other environments, which can lead to a buildup of mold and mildew especially if there is not enough direct sunlight to dry up the moisture that can sit on your roof shingle.

Overall, asphalt composite shingles make a great option for affordability, style, and installation. If you are looking for a cost affordable option, then Elmer’s Roofing is for you! Want to learn more about roofing, check out our blogs covering a variety of topics as it relates to roofing so that you are informed about your roof as well.

Now that you’ve read this blog. Are you in the market for a new roof or have a roof repair needing fixed? Check out Elmer’s roofing for a free roofing consultation to see what we can do for you!