Every home needs a new roof periodically, but it can be a very expensive upgrade or repair. It is also necessary in order to maintain the integrity of the home. Therefore, you may be forced to look for a cheaper option, but you still want the roof to look great and serve its function well. For many, asphalt shingles are the best option to fit all of these requirements.

Asphalt shingles are the most frequently used types of roof. They are not as durable as some materials, but they are usually adequate. They also look good, and the cost is significantly less than premium materials.

There are also two types of asphalt shingles to consider – fiberglass and organic.

Fiberglass shingles are composed of a glass fiber base that is coated with asphalt containing mineral fillers that make them waterproof. They also protect against fire. These are the most often used asphalt shingles.

Organic shingles are made of used paper that is soaked in asphalt, which makes them waterproof, and are coated with adhesive salt and ceramic granules. They are more durable than the fiberglass shingles, but are not as fireproof or as environmentally friendly.

Pros

  • Cost – Asphalt shingles are much less expensive than a lot of other materials, and they still look great. They can last up to 20 years and they are of decent quality.

  • Easy installation – Pretty much any roofing contractor can install asphalt shingles properly, while other materials may require roofers who are specially trained. A skilled do-it-yourselfer may even be able to take care of the job. This means major savings on the installation as well.

  • Variety – There are different styles of asphalt shingles, including basic, laminated and premium. Laminated cost more than basic, but will give more of a 3D look. There are also a variety of colors and patterns, so you can find the best look for your home’s style and color.

Cons

  • More easily damaged – Asphalt shingles can become damaged by temperatures below freezing, temperature changes and poor attic ventilation. They can also crack and fade during hotter weather.

  • Regular upkeep required – When you have any cracks or missing shingles, they must be fixed in order to prevent further damage. Rain and snow can easily make any existing issues worse. They must also be replaced more frequently than some other types of roofs.

  • Not environmentally friendly – Since asphalt shingles are petroleum-based, they are not biodegradable and the production of the shingles requires a great deal of energy. It also results in greenhouse grass emissions. There are tons of asphalt shingles in landfills, as they are not regularly recycled, and they do not last as long as some other roofing materials.