What are the pros and cons of asphalt shingles?
Asphalt is one of the most commonly used materials for roofing. Professionally installed asphalt shingles look great on any roof. With asphalt, you get a high-quality, long-lasting product, and you have many options for color. It is designed for all types of budgetary needs. If you require new roofing or have a current asphalt roof, there are some pros and cons to consider regarding asphalt shingle roofing.
Pros
Fire Rating
The highest fire rating available in shingles is Class A. Fiberglass-backed shingles are specifically designed to achieve a Class A rating. This is an important feature to consider for your home. No one wants to think about a fire in their home; however, the right shingles would provide you with peace of mind when it comes to fire safety.
Budget Friendly
If you’re looking for an excellent value for your money, asphalt shingles are a great choice. Without compromising quality, asphalt shingles are available for a variety of budgets. You will also have a large variety of color options.
Long Lasting
When you choose a thicker variety of shingles in a premium product, you will have a longer roof life expectancy. A denser, more substantial product will naturally last longer than a thinner piece of material.
Installation
Another plus to asphalt shingles is the installation process. Asphalt shingles are pretty straightforward to install. The installation is less time-consuming compared to other, more complex types of roofing. With this straightforward installation process, you will likely save on installation costs.
Cons
Hail Damage
Every winter, we have weather predictions of hail. Some predictions become actual storms, while others do not. When hail hits your roof, it can leave dents and dings that compromise the structure and cause cracks, leading to leaks. The higher-grade shingles you purchase, however, will cause less damage.
Degrade
One of the few downsides to asphalt shingles is that over time, the material can degrade. Exposure to sunlight, walking on the roof for repairs or gutter cleaning, and removing snow from your roof every year can cause some of the granules that protect the asphalt layer to be lost. If you choose the premium shingles over the less expensive, thinner variety, your roof will last longer. However, asphalt roofing is not a forever roof; it will need to be replaced eventually.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, high-quality roofing product, then asphalt shingles are the way to go. With a wide variety of options for any roofing design and very few downsides, asphalt is a tried-and-true product. When you’re ready to install a new roof or have other roofing needs, call the professionals at Classic Remodeling. Our years of experience and expertise will help you get the best roof for your needs.
