Advantages and Disadvantages Of Asphalt Shingles Every Homeowner Should Know

There are a lot of factors to consider when roofing your home. One of the most popular options today is asphalt shingles. They have a variety of advantages and disadvantages that every homeowner should be aware of before making a decision. In this blog post, we will discuss the pros and cons of asphalt shingles so that you can make an informed decision about what is best for your home. Let’s first define what Asphalt shingles are.

What are Asphalt Shingles?

Asphalt shingles are a type of roofing material made from asphalt and fiberglass. They are one of the most popular roofing materials on the market because they are relatively inexpensive and easy to install.

These shingles come in various colors and styles, which allows you to choose a look that best suits your home. There are two main types of asphalt shingles: organic and fiberglass. Organic shingles are made with a base of paper or felt saturated with asphalt. On the other hand, fiberglass shingles have a glass mat at their core instead of paper or felt. Fiberglass shingles are more fire-resistant than organic shingles, which is an essential consideration if you live in an area prone to wildfires.

Advantages of Asphalt Shingles

There are several advantages to using asphalt shingles on your roof. Here are some of the most notable benefits:

• Affordable: These shingles are one of the most affordable roofing materials on the market. This makes them an excellent option for homeowners working with a limited budget. Besides this, asphalt shingles are also easy to install, saving you money on installation costs.
• Variety: Asphalt comes in a variety of colors and styles. This allows you to choose a look that best suits your home. Whether you want a classic look or something more modern, there is an asphalt shingle option that will suit your needs.
• Lightweight: The shingles are lightweight, making them easy to work with and install. This is especially beneficial if you are working on a roof that is not structurally sound enough to support the weight of other roofing materials.
• It’s Effective: They are an effective roofing material. They are good at protecting your home from the elements, and they have a long lifespan. When properly installed, asphalt shingles can last for up to 20 years.
• Offers a Traditional Look: Many homeowners prefer the traditional look of asphalt. If you are looking for a roofing material that will give your home a classic look, these shingles may be the right option.
• Easy to Install: These shingles are easy to install, which is beneficial if you do the work yourself. Even if you hire a professional to install your asphalt shingles, the process is relatively quick and easy. You won’t be charged much for installation, and the project can usually be completed in one day.
• You can replace one shingle: If one of your shingles is damaged, you can usually replace it without replacing the entire roof. This is not the case with other roofing materials, such as tile or metal.

Disadvantages of Asphalt Shingles

There are some disadvantages to using asphalt shingles on your roof. Here are some of the most notable disadvantages:

• Short lifespan: One of the most significant disadvantages of these shingles is that they have a shorter lifespan than other roofing materials. They typically last for about 20 years, while other materials, such as metal or tile, can last for 40 years or more.
• Not eco-friendly: Asphalt is not a sustainable or eco-friendly material. It is made from petroleum, which is a non-renewable resource. If you are looking for more sustainable roofing material, you may consider other options.
• Can be damaged by hail: A storm can damage these shingles. If you live in an area prone to severe thunderstorms, you may want to consider another roofing material.
• Affected by mildew: Asphalt shingles can be affected by mold. If you live in an area with high humidity, you may want to consider another roofing material because mildew can cause the shingles to deteriorate.
• Can be damaged by wind: High winds can also damage asphalt shingles. If you live in an area prone to hurricanes or other severe storms, you may want to consider another roofing material. For instance, metal roofing is a good option for homes in hurricane-prone areas.

As you can see, there are both advantages and disadvantages to using asphalt shingles on your roof. You will need to weigh the pros and cons carefully to decide if they are the right option. If you have any questions, consult with a roofing professional. They will be able to help you choose the best roofing material for your home. Ensure that you work with experts to get the job done right. You don’t want to take any chances for your roof. It’s one of the essential parts of your home, and you need to make sure that it is protected from the elements.