All About Asphalt Shingles
If you need a new roof, you will want to consider your roofing material options carefully. In Colorado Springs, it’s important to choose a roofing material that is durable enough to withstand hail and other elements. In this part of our series, we will explore the pros and cons of asphalt shingle roofing.
What’s Good About Asphalt Shingles?
Asphalt shingles are made of a base mat, a layer of asphalt, and a layer of granules that provide UV protection. These shingles are cost-effective, easy to install, and come in a variety of styles and colors. It’s no surprise that asphalt shingles are the most common residential roofing material in the United States. Available in a variety of profiles and styles, asphalt shingles are an excellent and affordable choice for residential homes as they complement many architectural styles.
How Does the Cost of Asphalt Shingles Compare to Other Materials?
Affordability is one of the biggest reasons why asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material in the United States. Compared to other roofing materials, like tile or metal, asphalt shingle roofing costs less per square (1 square = 10-foot by 10-foot section of the roof).
How Long Do Asphalt Shingles Last?
Climate and environmental factors affect the longevity of asphalt shingles, as well as the quality of the shingles themselves. The average lifespan of an asphalt shingle roof is about 15-30 years. However, in hail-prone areas like Colorado, they may only last 7-10 years on average. Impact-resistant asphalt shingles are designed to hold up to hailstones, and generally last longer. If you choose to replace your roof with asphalt shingles, make sure the shingles are polymer modified. Polymer modified asphalt shingles have more flexibility than shingles made with standard oxidized asphalt so they can “retract” back into shape after impact damage and avoid cracking.
If you’re in the market for a new roof, asphalt shingles are certainly the least expensive and most available product on the market. However, as we’ll discuss in upcoming blog posts, they are not always the best style or most durable material in all situations.
