Your Guide To Asphalt Roof Shingles & The Types Available

Are you looking to install a new roof? If so, you might want to know about the most popular, cost-effective, and easy to install roofing material: asphalt shingles.

Asphalt roof shingles are crucial for protecting homes from weather damage, enhancing structural integrity, and maintaining a polished and uniform look. Their affordability and ease of installation make them a top choice for ensuring long-term security and comfort for homeowners.

In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about asphalt roofing shingles from the types to the top manufacturers. So, without any further ado, let’s get started.

What Are Asphalt Roof Shingles? 

Asphalt roof shingles are roofing materials composed of fiberglass or organic bases saturated with asphalt. These layers are then coated with mineral granules for color and added protection. 

Asphalt shingles are commonly used in residential roofing projects due to their inexpensive nature and versatility. They are also easier to install than other materials.

They provide protection against various weather conditions, including rain, wind, and sunlight. The average cost of an asphalt shingle roof per square foot ranges between $1 to $12 depending upon factors such as material quality, style, coverage area, roof complexity, etc.

Here are some of the features of asphalt shingles:

• Asphalt roof shingles come in many colors and styles to match different house designs.
• You can easily customize your roof’s look with these versatile options.
• With regular care, asphalt shingles can last a long time.
• Asphalt roof shingles are affordable and have the ability to enhance the appearance of your roof while ensuring its longevity.

Advantages Of Asphalt Roof Shingles

Asphalt shingles offer a variety of advantages that make them a popular choice among homeowners. Here are some of them: 

• Affordability: Asphalt shingles are budget-friendly compared to other roofing materials. They cost about half of what a metal roof does and around a third of a slate tile roof. 

• Easy Installation: Asphalt shingles are lightweight, making them easy to transport and handle during the installation process. This makes them easier to install for the contractors, making the project quicker, and can also help reduce the load on the roof structure.

• Versatility: They come in a wide variety of colors and styles, allowing homeowners to choose the right look for their home. Additionally, they can be used on a wide range of roof designs and shapes.

• Warranty: Most manufacturers offer warranties on their asphalt shingles, providing peace of mind for homeowners. GAF and Owens Corning are two manufacturers who offer a limited lifetime warranty for some of their shingle lines.

• Widespread Availability: Asphalt shingles are readily available, making it easier to find replacements or additional shingles if needed for repairs or additions.

Limitations Of Asphalt Roof Shingles

While asphalt shingles offer numerous advantages, they also come with some drawbacks that you should consider:

• Lifespan: The lifespan of an asphalt shingles roof is quite shorter compared to some other roofing materials. It typically lasts for 20-30 years. 

• Prone To Wind Damage: Since these shingles are lighter in weight, they are more vulnerable to damage due to strong winds. 

• Color Fading: Over time, the color of asphalt shingles may fade due to exposure to sunlight, impacting the aesthetic appeal of the roof.

• Vulnerability to Algae and Mold Growth: Asphalt shingles can develop algae and mold in humid climates or areas with frequent precipitation, leading to unsightly stains and potential structural issues.

Types Of Asphalt Roof Shingles

Next, we will talk about the various types of asphalt shingles so you can get a thorough understanding of the options that are available:

#1 3-Tab Shingles

3-Tab shingles are a staple material in the roofing industry known for their simple yet effective design. It features three uniform tabs per shingle, and they offer a classic look to residential structures. 

One of their primary appeals lies in their low cost, making them an ideal option for budget-conscious homeowners. These shingles are easy to install when compared to other options, reducing labor costs and installation time for contractors and DIY enthusiasts alike. While providing adequate sturdiness and weather resistance, they typically last between 15 to 25 years with proper maintenance. However, they are not being used as much today and are being replaced by better options. 

#2 Architectural Shingles

Architectural asphalt shingles, also known as dimensional or laminate shingles, offer a sophisticated and upscale appearance for pitched roofs. These shingles are thicker and more textured than 3-tab asphalt shingles, providing depth and dimension to the roof’s surface. With their multi-layered construction, architectural shingles enhance the curb appeal of any home. 

Despite their premium appearance, they remain cost-effective compared to other materials, making them one of the best asphalt roofing shingles for homeowners seeking both style and sturdiness for their roof.

#3 Luxury Asphalt Shingles 

Luxury asphalt shingles replicate the look of high-end materials like cedar or slate at a much lesser cost, enhancing the visual appeal and value of any home. They are typically made of multiple layers of high-quality asphalt and reinforced with fiberglass or other durable materials. With their unique designs and textures, luxury shingles reflect sophistication, creating a striking architectural statement. 

While luxury asphalt shingles come at a higher price point than standard options, their ability to mimic the appearance of costly materials makes them a desirable investment for many property owners. 

Maintenance and Repair Tips for Asphalt Roof Shingles

Proper regular maintenance and repairs are essential for maximizing the lifespan and performance of asphalt shingle roofs. Here are key points to consider:

• Schedule regular inspections: Roof inspections are essential to detect any indications of damage or wear, such as the absence or deterioration of shingles. This proactive approach helps ensure early detection of issues and facilitates timely repairs.
• Professional maintenance: For periodic inspections and maintenance tasks, get help from a professional roofer to ensure thorough and proper care of the roof.
• Maintain a tidy roof: By regularly clearing away leaves, branches, and other debris, you can maintain a clean roof. Accumulated debris can trap moisture, which will lead to the deterioration of shingles, so it’s important to keep the roof clear to prevent such issues.

• Deal with leaks promptly: If you observe any indications of leaks or water damage, promptly examine and fix them to avoid worsening problems and safeguard the structural integrity of the roof.
• Replace damaged shingles: Replace any damaged or missing shingles promptly to maintain the roof’s waterproofing and prevent leaks.
• Address moss and algae growth: If moss or algae are present, consider using appropriate treatments to remove them and prevent further growth, which can cause damage to shingles.

Top Brands For Asphalt Roof Shingles

Here are some of the most popular brands for asphalt roof shingles: 

• Owens Corning
• CertainTeed
• GAF 
• Malarkey

Also Read: Popular GAF Shingle Colors: What Homeowners Should Know

Contact Kickapoo Roofing In La Crosse, WI, For Your Asphalt Roof Shingle Installation

For those needing to install asphalt roof shingles, Kickapoo Roofing in La Crosse, WI, has a professional team of roofers ready to assist you. Our skilled professionals provide budget-friendly asphalt roof shingle installations. We have the expertise to manage any roofing project efficiently. Reach out to us today at (608) 352-8688 to speak with a roofing specialist about your project.

Frequently Asked Questions