A significant part of adulthood and adulting is becoming a first-time homeowner. But much like with earning your first regular paycheck, there are important details that come with hitting such a huge milestone in life.
In the paycheck scenario, the critical details are income taxes and paying bills. With homes, it’s renovations.
But what in the world do you know about roofing materials?
When in doubt, always start with the most popular thing amongst the adulting majority. Four out of five homeowners in the United States have chosen to cover their homes in asphalt shingles.
What are asphalt roofing shingles, and how good are they when you break it all down?
Are they budget-friendly for a first-time homeowner? How long will the installation process take?
Your choice of roofing is one of the most significant investments you’ll ever make, so let’s go over some pros and cons to and figure it all out.
The Pros of Asphalt Roofing Shingles
An asphalt shingle is a type of roof shingle that uses asphalt for waterproofing.
The cost of a metal roof can be three times as much as an asphalt one. These shingles are the most affordable, not to mention accessible, out of the pool of available shingle materials. Asphalt is usually seen as the most sensible cost option in the roofing industry.
Versatile and Adaptable
Asphalt shingles are one of the least difficult to work within the roofing world. It can be easily cut, secured, and fitted during the installment process.
Asphalt roofing is also a good match for most rooftop structures.
Low Maintenance and Easy Upkeep
An asphalt roof can be walked on without causing dents or damage.
Asphalt roofing doesn’t require as much upkeep as other materials—no need for exclusive accessories for edging, vents or chimney flashing, and wall terminations.
Easy Installation
One of the most positive benefits of asphalt roofing shingles is how lightweight they are. They can be installed speedily without any structural support.
A worker can have the entire roof done within a period of one to two days.
Champion of Longevity
Concerns of affordability when you’re torn over longterm durability can be a significant headache.
Asphalt shingles are a cost-effective option that lasts about thirty years on average. Architectural shingles have the endurance of thirty to fifty years.
Easy to Recognize When Repairs Are Needed
Asphalt roofing isn’t subtle when it comes to hints that it’s time to call in the cavalry. They show when they become frail and delicate. Noticeable signs are cracks, discoloration, buckling, and significant gaps.
Variety Is the Spice of Asphalt Roofing
If you’re the picky sort, asphalt is going to be the better choice for you.
You have two types of shingles to choose from, and those shingles are adapted to fit the styles and aesthetics of both modern and classical homes. The range of colors includes blue, tan, red, green, gray, brown, and more.
Flexibility in Style and Design
Architectural asphalt tiles are a bit more costly but can have a 3D-like end-result. They come in a wide selection of tones and patterns, and some can replicate the look of slate or wood shingles.
Environmentally Friendly
As it happens, the party line about asphalt shingles being harmful to the environment is outdated.
It’s become standard for asphalt to be recycled rather than sent to landfill. Companies will often turn it into pavement for road work.
Eye-Catching Curb Appeal
If you have significant concerns aesthetics-wise, the variety of shapes, colors, and designs of asphalt are perfect for the overall appeal of your home.
From the range available you will be able to choose something that goes with your home’s aesthetic.
Energy Efficiency
If you live in a region where your home requires constant cooling, you can select a lighter of shade asphalt to deflect heat and keep your AC bill down. Of you live in a colder climate, choose a darker shade to absorb more heat and lower your heating bill.
Quiet in Any Weather
Metal roofing can nearly be deafening noisy for some people during hail and rainstorms in contrast to asphalt.
Some people can find it ignorable or comforting, and some people can find it annoying and distracting. It’s a personality and preference driven choice. However, it is indisputable that asphalt is quieter in lousy weather.
Alteration Friendly
Asphalt shingles are simple to install and equally as simple to repair. Layering shingles is quicker and less of a challenge than repairing multiple dents in soft metal.
Cutting down on labor costs is never not a good thing.
The Cons of Asphalt Shingles
Intense weather can end in asphalt shingles becoming buckled or cracked. Although they deflect water very well, the wind is another story. Strong winds can cause shingles to rip or tear off easily.
Compatibility
Asphalt shingles on low pitched roofs don’t work—flat roofs are also not an appropriate match for these shingles because they will be worn out by extreme weather more quickly than on steeper-sloped roofs.
If you’re concerned about whether your roof is a good match for asphalt shingles, you can read more now about what kind of shingles that are suitable for your home.
Sensitivity to Certain Weather Conditions
If your roofing work is performed in bitingly cold temperatures, the shingles themselves can be damaged. You’ll have to adjust your installational timing to the warmer months, which can be inconvenient.
Durability
Roof tiles are generally more long-lasting. Coated steel is more robust than terra cotta tile. But the combination of the purchase price and labor costs can exceed the total of a shingle roof by four-times the cost.
Your Adulting Doesn’t Have to Be so Complicated
Asphalt roofing shingles are a classic, sturdy roofing material that won’t leave your wallet empty. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or checking out the market because your roof is in need of replacement, they are a safe and reliable bet.
If you want to make you’re making the right choices for both your home and its roofing, call a professional roofing service in your area and schedule a consultation.
