Pros and Cons of Asphalt Shingle Roofing

Around 80% of homes in the United States have asphalt shingle roofs. The reason for such a huge demand is their relatively low cost, material characteristics, and aesthetics. If your roof is not properly sealed against the outside environment, then everything beneath it is in danger. There are many advantages of asphalt shingle roofing, but one should be aware of its disadvantages too.

Pros of Asphalt Shingle Roofing System

There are enough reasons why many homeowners choose asphalt shingle roofing when faced with the decision of replacing their old roof shingles.

Economical

Asphalt shingles are by far the most affordable roofing material on the planet. Most roofing contractors and roofing companies find them easy to install, quick to fix, and last for up to 25 years if properly maintained.

Versatile

Roofing contractors always suggest asphalt shingles as they are very versatile and fit almost any type of roof without any specific requirements for your ceilings to be steep-sloped or have vents.

Choice Variation

You will always have the choice of choosing from a different range of color combinations and styles according to your personal preference. So, it means you will find your desired color combination which will match your home’s theme at an affordable price.

Color and Shade Choice.

Not only available in different designs, but asphalt shingles are available in a wide variety and range of different shades and colors. Other roofing options can’t offer such color and shade combinations due to the limited nature of their roofing materials.

Security and Safety

Many roofing companies are offering asphalt roof shingles that have A-class fire protection assurance. It means your asphalt shingles will be fire resistant, which would allow you and your family to evacuate the house in case if there are any fire breakouts. They are waterproof as well, which will assure their long-lasting lifespan.

UV Rays Deflection

Many roofing contractors and roofing companies also suggest Asphalt shingles because they deflect all harmful UV rays, helping your roof to stay cool. Without UV rays protection, your roof will absorb maximum heat, which will ultimately turn your roof into a burning hot surface.

Ease of Repair

Asphalt Shingle roofs are always easy to repair and replace. They come in a variety of colors and color combinations to match your house theme. If you choose any shingles other than asphalt shingles, then it’s hard to find a new shingle matching your shingle color in case some of them need to be replaced. On the other hand, asphalt shingles are always abundantly available in different colors and color combinations. They, therefore, are easy to repair and replace, making your roof look like it has never been repaired.

Noise and Sound Protection

It’s always easy to forget and miss the minute offerings when we look at the broad advantages of a product. Asphalt shingle roofs possess the unique ability to guard your house against outside world noise and loud sounds. Its ability to fight against water gives it the feature of blocking sound; that’s why they are much quieter than metal roofs.

Lightweight

Asphalt Shingles are lightweight as compared to some other shingles made of fiber cement or wood. Therefore, asphalt shingles ensure that your roof rafter is not under pressure and could easily hold the asphalt shingles.

Cons of Shingle Roofing System

Like all other building materials, asphalt shingles have their cons too and a professional roofing company or roofing contractor should warn you against them. Despite their outstanding advantages, they too fall short in certain features. We will mention some of these aspects to help you make the right choice for yourself.

Life Span

When we compare other shingle’s lifespan with asphalt shingles, we come to know that they last longer than 25 years. It is because they are made of materials like metal, slate, or tile rows. But asphalt shingles are cheaper as compared to them.

Susceptible to Certain Damages

Asphalt shingles, in general, are solid and withstand a lot of damages. When it comes to hurricanes, the burning temperature, then asphalt shingles can’t withhold such harsh conditions for an extended period and might wear and tear, exposing your roof to water damages.

Moss Growth Problem

If not provided with enough sunshine during the day, asphalt shingles will remain exposed to excess moisture, leading to moss and mildew growth risk. Zinc strips are installed adjacent to the ridge of the roof, but still, they are not enough to prevent moss growth. Also, regular organic matter such as leaves helps to prevent moss growth in the first place.

Always Choose the Right Roofing Contractor Company

The right roofing contractor will always advise you on the best residential roof options. As far as roofing is concerned, asphalt shingle roofing is the best option to choose because of its versatility, affordability, design, extra protection, and defense against heat and harmful UV rays.

If you are looking for an experienced and professional roofing contractor with years of experience, All American Exterior will do a free roofing inspection and help you choose the right roofing solution for your home. We have years of experience with roofing repair, roofing inspection, and roofing installation in Indianola, IA, and the nearby towns.

Give us a call today to learn more about your roofing choices and how to protect one of your greatest assets, your home.