When the time has come to replace your roof or to choose a new roof for your home, it’s important to know the advantages and disadvantages of roofing materials before you decide. According to the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association, “neither metal nor concrete tiles match asphalt roofing for its overall combination of beauty, durability, and longevity.” This gives us some insight into the reasons asphalt is the most common roofing material in the U.S. However, it’s not the only consideration. To help you determine what’s best for you, Armoured Exteriors has made a list of the pros and cons of asphalt roof shingles so you can make a confident, informed choice in this important investment for your home.
PROS
Durability
Incredibly durable for the cost. Longer lasting than wooden shingles, many asphalt roofs last for several decades.
Less Expensive
Despite their durability, they are the least expensive viable roofing material. Using them is a particularly good way to keep your roofing costs to a minimum.
Low Maintenance/Easy to Replace
When properly installed, asphalt shingle roofs typically require very little maintenance, but they may need an occasional fix. Fortunately, asphalt shingles can be easily removed and replaced.
Versatility
Asphalt shingles are available in a range of different colors, styles, and shapes, which makes them perfect for styling to your desired aesthetic. They also work well on homes with steep, sloping roofs and are usually compatible with most types of roof structures.
Resistant to UV Rays, Snow, and Ice
Asphalt roofs are resistant to the beating sun and withstand being covered with snow and ice. They also offer good protection from fire and storms.
CONS
Vulnerable to Wind
Because of the light weight of asphalt shingles, they can sometimes be susceptible to wind damage. Strong winds have been known to lift or tear these shingles off relatively easily—especially here in Illinois. Strong wind damage = roof repair costs. At the same time, many insurance companies usually cover the cost of weather damage to roofs. According to American Family Insurance, “understanding how your policy offers protection against wind damage is key to properly preparing for the unexpected.”
Potential Cracking
Asphalt roofs need to be installed during moderate temperatures. Extremes in heat and cold can lead to cracking from expansion and contraction. Especially if temperatures dip below freezing, at which time installation should be avoided.
Not as Long Lasting as Other Roofing Materials
Quality metal roofs <hyperlink to Metal Roofs page> tend to be durable and outlast asphalt. A properly installed, high-quality metal roof can remain intact for 40 to 70 years, whereas asphalt typically lasts 20-50 years. In both cases, the grade of the material used largely determines the longevity of the roof.
Damage From Excess Moisture
Excess moisture combined with heat can shorten the lifespan of asphalt shingles. The damage caused to the shingles can expose the underlying roof structure to the elements, causing additional damage. Excess moisture can also lead to the growth of mildew or moss on your roof and result in other issues such as preventing water from running off your roof.
The Takeaway
There are many advantages to asphalt shingles, including their affordability to install, ease of repair, and style. At the same time, there are some disadvantages to asphalt shingles, including their vulnerability to weather damage and susceptibility to moss and mildew. Metal roofs offer longer life expectancy and almost zero maintenance, but usually cost more up front. Regardless of your choice, a new asphalt or metal roof will be more energy efficient and have a longer lifespan than an older roof, so they tend to have a lower life-cycle cost. This means they cost less to repair, maintain, replace, and dispose of, giving you many years of savings.
Armoured Exteriors understands the intricacies of roofing materials and installation in Illinois and will guide you through the process of selecting the best option for your situation.
Whether you prefer an asphalt shingle or metal roof and if you live in Rockford, IL, or the surrounding area, Armoured Exteriors can help
