Have your roof’s shingles reached the end of their lifespan? Are you thinking about making a change this fall? If so, you have a few different materials to choose from.
While all roofing materials have their merits, the most commonly used roofing material is asphalt. Wondering what asphalt shingles have to offer? Then read below. We’re going to review their upsides and their downsides.
The Upsides
Affordable
As far as affordability goes, nothing beats asphalt shingles. Asphalt shingles are the most affordable residential roofing material on the market, costing between $80 and $100 per square (100 square feet).
In comparison, cedar shakes cost around $470 per square, metal panels cost around $500 per square, clay tiles cost between $600 and $800 per square, and slate tiles cost between $800 and $1,600 per square. In essence, if you’re looking to install your roof in as cost-effective a way as possible, asphalt shingles are the best choice.
Easy to Install
If you’re thinking about installing your roof on your own, asphalt shingles are probably your best option. This is because, compared to other roofing materials, they’re exceedingly easy to install.
Now this isn’t to say that installing asphalt shingles is a walk in the park. You’ll still have to know what you’re doing, and you still have to be very careful throughout the installation process. However, the amount of time and effort involved pales in comparison to alternative options.
Many Color and Style Options
Asphalt shingles are available in a wide variety of colors and styles. While they don’t quite possess the regal or upscale aesthetics of cedar, slate, or clay, they are much more aesthetically various than those other options.
Regardless of your style and color preferences, you should be able to find an asphalt shingle that suits you.
Low-Maintenance
All roofing materials are exposed to the elements. Therefore, all roofing materials require maintenance of some kind. However, compared to cedar, clay, and slate, asphalt shingles require very little in terms of ongoing maintenance.
Generally, all you’ll need to do to maintain asphalt shingles is to wash them every now and then. You can periodically spray your roof with a mixture of water and bleach in order to eliminate moss, algae, and other forms of mildew buildup.
The Downsides
Lack Durability
Perhaps the biggest downside with asphalt shingles is that they lack durability. Whereas cedar shakes can last for over 50 years, and whereas slate tiles can last for over 100 years, asphalt shingles are limited to between 20 and 30 years.
Vulnerable to Extreme Weather
All roofing materials are vulnerable to extreme weather. However, asphalt shingles are the most vulnerable. Not only are they more susceptible to water and sun damage, but—due to their light weight—they’re also more vulnerable to wind damage as well.
What does this vulnerability to extreme weather mean for asphalt shingles? It means that they tend to require more frequent repairs than other types of roofing.
Prone to Physical Trauma
It’s not just extreme weather that asphalt shingles are prone to. They’re prone to physical trauma as well. A falling branch or an errant baseball could easily cause an asphalt shingle to crack or disconnect.
Looking to Install an Asphalt Shingle Roof in Glendale?
Are asphalt shingles right for your home? If so, and if you’re in need of roofing company in Glendale, the roofers here with JM Remodeling are the people to see.
We’ve installed asphalt shingles on thousands of homes throughout the Glendale area. Our team would be more than happy to do the same for you.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment!