Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular roofing materials on the market, and for good reason. They are affordable, durable, and stylistically versatile. However, like all roofing materials, asphalt shingle roofs have their pros and cons. In this blog post, you will learn about their pros and cons so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not it is right for your home.
Pros
Ease of installation
Out of all the roofing materials you can choose from, asphalt shingles prove to be the easiest to install.
This is because they are lightweight and can be cut to size with a standard utility knife. Asphalt shingles also come in pre-marked rows with adhesive strips that make it easy to align them on your roof.
Low cost
Asphalt shingles are one of the most affordable roofing materials on the market. They are mass-produced and made from relatively inexpensive materials. And as mentioned above, they are easy to install, which translates to far less expensive labor costs compared to other materials.
High durability
Fiberglass mat is used to create asphalt shingles. Asphalt is then used to coat the shingles before getting covered with ceramic granules. This construction makes them resistant to high winds, hail, and fire. In fact, most asphalt shingles have a Class A fire rating, the highest possible rating.
Aesthetically versatile
Asphalt shingles come in a wide variety of colors, styles, and textures. This means that they can be used on just about any type of home, from traditional to modern. You can even find shingles that mimic the look of wood or slate. And aside from being stylish, they are energy-efficient as well. For all the reasons, asphalt shingles have become the go-to roofing material of choice by countless homeowners.
Cons
Shorter lifespan
The average asphalt shingle roof will last anywhere from 15 to 30 years. While this might look impressive, this is shorter than the lifespans of most other roofing materials, such as metal, tile, and slate.
Susceptible to damage
Asphalt shingles are susceptible to wind and hail damage. The granules that cover the shingles can also come loose over time, exposing the asphalt to UV rays and making the shingles more susceptible to cracking and breaking.
Low insulation value
Asphalt shingles have a low insulation value, which means that they are not very good at keeping your home cool in the summer or warm in the winter. This can lead to higher energy bills and discomfort for your family.
Periodic maintenance
Asphalt shingles require periodic maintenance, such as cleaning and repairs. This is because they are susceptible to damage from the elements and can degrade over time. Failure to properly maintain your asphalt shingle roof can shorten its lifespan and lead to costly repairs down the road.
To summarize, asphalt shingle roofs are a popular choice for many homeowners because they are affordable, easy to install, and versatile in terms of style. However, they do have some drawbacks, such as a shorter lifespan and susceptibility to damage. Be sure to weigh all the pros and cons before making a decision about whether or not asphalt shingle roofing is right for your home.
When there has been a storm in the area, you are going to worry about the damage done to your rooftop. It is something that can get to the point where parts of the roof are torn off or in tatters.