For decades, asphalt shingle roofs have been by far the most popular roofing option in North America, and in many countries around the world. These simple shingles are the material of choice in around 80% of all home roofing projects in the U.S. What’s more, they’re probably the first place most people’s minds jump to when they think of roofing materials.
What about these roof shingles makes them such a common choice? If you’re not sure why these timeless shingles are worth your consideration, keep reading our asphalt shingle roof guide.
Easy Installation
Asphalt shingles are lighter and often easier to handle than heavier roofing options like tile or clay. Because of their light weight, installers also won’t have to make structural changes to your home to support additional weight.
As a result, the installation process tends to be quick and easy, especially for seasoned professionals. If you’re hoping to get the job done fast or you want to save on labor costs, this roofing material may be ideal for your home.
Budget-Friendly Cost
Of all the roof materials on the market, asphalt shingles are among the most cost-effective. You can expect to pay between $5 to $15 per square foot, depending on the brand and type. Even better, as we’ll note below, these wallet-friendly shingles won’t lack in effectiveness.
Better Lifespan
Though asphalt shingle roofs can’t stand up to long-lasting roofing materials like metal, their lifespans are much longer than they used to be in the past. Shingles can last anywhere from twenty to thirty years with a professional installation. With some lifetime warranties, you can even get warranty coverage for up to 50 years.
Note, of course, that your roof is more likely to last longer if you follow the right asphalt shingle roof tips for regular maintenance.
Durability
An asphalt shingle roof can stand up to most of what our Maryland climate can throw at it, from extreme temperatures to severe snowstorms. Most shingles have high impact ratings that let you know how well they can withstand things like hailstorms. You can also expect them to stand up to high winds.
If you’re looking for more durability, however, you can get performance shingles with added fire- and weather-resistance. Some asphalt shingles even offer a Class A fire rating, the highest rating given to roofing materials.
It’s also worth noting that asphalt shingles are algae- and rust-resistant, which isn’t the case for options like wood or metal, respectively.
Easy Replacement
Though asphalt shingle roofs will last for many years, it’s not uncommon to lose a shingle or two during that time. Fortunately, it’s easy to replace individual shingles on the go, which isn’t the case with options like metal roofing.
Classic Appearance
In terms of your home’s aesthetic, you can’t go wrong with the timeless look of asphalt shingle roofs. This popular roofing material will lend your home a more traditional look than you’d get from modern options like metal roofing.
You can also choose between the nuances of various designs. Premium, three-tab, and dimensional shingles are popular, but you can also find asphalt shingles that mimic the look of slate or wood shakes.
Color Options
If you’re hoping to find the perfect shade to enhance your home’s curb appeal, you’ll be happy with the wide spectrum of colors available from most brands. Though most homeowners look for natural shades like earthy browns or dark grays, you can also find asphalt shingles in eye-catching colors like blues, purples, and reds.
Versatility
For homeowners struggling to find roofing materials for a complex roof structure, an asphalt shingle roof may be the way to go. These shingles work on a huge variety of angles and roof forms, making them ideal for almost any home.
Even better, the flexibility of shingles makes them ideal for use around unique features like chimneys and skylights. This is even true if you install these features after you’ve already installed your roof.
Energy Efficiency
With expert installation, your asphalt shingle roof can help improve the energy efficiency of your home. The underlayment layer of these roofing systems can help reflect the sun’s radiation, cooling your home throughout the day. This is in addition to the granules of your shingles, which can deflect sunlight as well.
Sustainability
Despite their name, you may find yourself wondering, “What is an asphalt shingle roof made of?” These shingles include a single layer of asphalt as well as fiberglass and ceramic-coated granules.
You might not think of these materials as sustainable. However, eco-minded homeowners will love knowing that their roofing is in fact recyclable. Old asphalt shingles used to go straight to the landfill, but modern technology has made them easy to recycle and repurpose.
Sound Insulation
In contrast to options like metal and clay, to an extent, one of the best asphalt shingle roof benefits is its sound protection. Asphalt shingles are good insulators and block sounds from rain and other external noises.
Reap the Many Benefits of Asphalt Shingle Roofs
Whether you’re installing a roof on new construction or replacing outdated roofing on an older home, asphalt shingles are always a safe bet. Offering curb appeal, durability, energy-efficiency, and much more, these shingles have a lot to offer in any home project.
If you’re sold on the benefits of asphalt shingle roofs, we’d love to help you get one safely and professionally installed. Here at Landmark Roofing, our team has a long history of providing expert service to homes and businesses throughout the Severna Park area and beyond. To learn what we can do for you, contact us today or reach out for a free estimate.
