Chances are, you don’t think about shingles first thing in the morning as we do. That’s okay. But did you know that asphalt is the most popular shingle material in the United States? Start looking at rooftops around your home or apartment, and you will see it everywhere.
While metal and cedar shingles are growing in popularity, asphalt still reigns supreme. Depending on the type of asphalt you get, it can protect your roof for 30 to 50 years. That kind of durability helps explain its popularity. However, there are other reasons why more homeowners choose asphalt than any other material.
Asphalt Shingles Are the Cheapest Material
Price is the primary reason why people flock to asphalt shingles. They cost approximately $80 to $100 per 100 square feet. Add in the installation fee and you can expect to pay somewhere between $2,000 and $5,000.
If you opt for three-tab shingles, which many homeowners do, you can expect the roof to last up to 20 years. These shingles provide serviceable protection against rain, snow, and fire. There are fiberglass varieties of asphalt shingles too, though they cost more.
Asphalt Shingles Are Easy to Install
Metal roofing requires specialized training to install the panels properly. Ceramic tile roofs (made with fired clay or terra cotta) may look gorgeous but the tiles are cumbersome and difficult to work with. On the other hand, asphalt shingles are lightweight and malleable, which makes them a snap to install.
When it comes to replacing your roof quickly, asphalt is the most straightforward option. Roofers need to make only a few decisions to install them compared to their shingle counterparts. Ease of installation also keeps labor prices lower.
The Variety Is Endless
Asphalt shingles come in three primary flavors: three-tab, laminate, and designer. The three-tab is the most commonly used form because of its price. It is a single piece of material that lies flat on the rooftop for a slate-esque look.
Laminate shingles, sometimes known as architectural shingles, are denser because additional materials are layered in to provide better resistance. The improved durability makes laminate shingles ideal for residential roofs. Homeowners also have the option of designer shingles, which mimic natural slate and cedar while providing more weather-resistance than the three-tab variety.
Final Thoughts
Your home is one of the most significant investments you will ever make. That is why it is vital to take the time to consider all of your options when it comes to protecting it from snow, rain, hail, and more. If you are on a tight budget—or love the aesthetic of asphalt shingles—they are certainly worth consideration.
Cittrix Roofing has helped homeowners across the greater Chicago metro area upgrade their roofs since 2014. From McHenry to Mundelein and Barrington to Beach Park, we have your roofing needs covered. For a free estimate for an asphalt roof, give us a ring at (847) 246-4004.