The most popular roof type in the United States is asphalt shingle roofing. Their appeal stems primarily from the fact that they are inexpensive and simple to install. A normal asphalt shingle roof should last between 20 and 30 years. It’s critical for homeowners to know both the positives and negatives of having an asphalt shingle roof. Here’s a look at all the aspects of an asphalt shingle roof and the benefits that one may provide a homeowner.
Here are some of the reasons why Asphalt shingles are the #1 choice for roofing materials in the U.S.
More Affordable Than Other Roofing Materials
Affordability is a huge determining factor for the budget-minded average American. Asphalt shingles are used more than any other roofing material because of their affordability. In fact, most homeowners don’t live in a hurricane region or an extreme weather region. So, there is no need for the expense of having stone or clay tile installed on their home. In contrast, metal roofs, on average, cost almost double what an asphalt shingle replacement costs, and stone or clay tiles can get to cost ten or twenty times that.
Less Maintenance Required
Once an asphalt shingle roof is installed, it’s pretty much good to go. There is very little maintenance required. Even if a large storm hits, individual shingles can be replaced at a reasonably low expense, and repairs can be easy. With the higher-end stone and tile roofs, repairs can be a considerable expense, and they require regular maintenance to keep them up to par. Metal roofs also require low maintenance; however, if a panel needs to be replaced, there is no way to match the original color due to sun bleaching. So, it will take a nasty hit on the aesthetics side.
Another considerable advantage on the maintenance side is algae resistance. Algae buildup will occur on any roofing surface, and cleaning can be costly and time-consuming. Today’s asphalt shingles are manufactured using tar mats and fiberglass. At the factory, this tar mat is heated, and colored granules are pressed into it. This is what gives asphalt shingles their color and protects them from the elements. What you don’t see is that these granules are actually made from small copper bits coated with colored ceramic. As the ceramic weathers, it exposes the bits of copper.
When it rains, water passes over these copper bits, and the chemicals from these bits kill any algae that may be forming. This can be well demonstrated by looking at a roof with lots of algae growth. If you see one, notice that the roof will be clean under the metal pipe boots. Different manufacturers put various copper proportions in their granules. So, the results vary by manufacturer.
Improve the Aesthetics & Versatility of Your Home
Using asphalt shingles can enhance the versatility and aesthetics of your home. Asphalt shingles come in various shapes, styles, and colors. We can install an asphalt shingle that was designed to resemble a clay villa roofing tile. When it comes to getting exact aesthetic results, you can best accomplish them with asphalt roof shingles.
Final Thoughts
There will always be people with enough money to buy the best and most expensive roofing material available on the market. Those people are just not ordinary budget-minded homeowners.
- Are you planning to live in your home for the next 50 years?
- So, does it matter if you only get 20 to 30 years out of your roof?
- Do you live in fear of a hurricane every season?
Ask yourself these questions when determining what type of roof you want and need. At Force Roofing Systems, we are willing to bet you will fall into the greater consensus and come to realize that asphalt shingles are the best choice for your home too.
