What Is An Asphalt Roof? 

Before we examine the popular roofing questions like “how much does an asphalt roof cost?” Or “how long does an asphalt roof last?” – it’s important to understand what an asphalt roof is. What do people mean when they talk about their asphalt roof?

When someone tells you that they have an “asphalt roof” it means that they have a shingled roof that is comprised of either fiberglass or organic asphalt shingles. 

Asphalt shingles are produced in those two distinctive varieties. Both types of shingles use asphalt coating to create a waterproof seal over the mat beneath, and that keeps your roof and home safe from wind, rain, and harsh sun.   

Fiberglass asphalt shingles are made of a woven fiberglass base mat, with an asphalt coating that is covered small ceramic bits. The ceramic components help shield the asphalt from the UV rays and reflect heat. 

Organic-mat asphalt shingles are made from a recycled layered felt paper that is saturated with asphalt, once for waterproofing, and then coated with asphalt again, and covered in ceramic bits.

Read Our Recent Blog: Expert Roofing Tips To Get Your Roof Ready For Fall!

Why Do People Choose Asphalt Shingles For Their Roof?

Asphalt shingles are one of the most common types of roofing shingles used on properties today. With around 70% of domestic roofing installations being asphalt, it’s the most sensible choice for most homeowners. But what makes asphalt shingles so attractive to homeowners? 

The Pros and Cons of Asphalt Roofing 

With all roofing materials and solutions, there are pros and cons. Asphalt shingles are no exception to that universal truth. But for most homeowners, asphalt shingles’ positives outweigh the negatives. 

Pros

Cost 

• asphalt shingles are considered the most cost-effective roofing material available. At $.80-$1.50 per square foot for materials, it’s hard to beat. 

No wonder so many homeowners are happy after roofing professionals install a new asphalt roof on their home – they don’t need to worry about the cost! 

Easy to source 

• Asphalt shingles easy to transport. Asphalt shingles come in a variety of colors to match tastes and preferences. Unlike tile or clay roofing, asphalt shingles replacements are easily sourced, with little turn around time needed. 

Reliable 

• Asphalt shingles are not quite as durable as metal, slate, clay, or cedar shake roofs, but they do last a for a significant amount of time when compared to their lower cost for installation. And, most professional-grade asphalt shingles come with a lifetime warranty from the manufacturer.  

Warranties 

• The lifetime warranties supplied by trusted asphalt shingle manufacturers will cover defects like shingle cupping, curling, or splitting. 

Lifespan

So, How long does an asphalt roof last? 15 to 30 years is the average lifespan of asphalt shingles. Most homeowners are delighted with these numbers, as they can expect to only need to replace their roof 2-3 times in their lifetime. 

Cons

Quality of Material

• Some cheaper asphalt shingles are made with bad chemicals, materials, and composites that will not last as long as higher-quality asphalt shingles. 

Not eco-friendly

• An asphalt shingle is partially a semi-solid form of petroleum. It’s hard to dispose of, it’s not recyclable, and it takes lots of energy to produce the shingles in the first place. 

Not meant for extreme weather fluctuation 

• When the shingles experience extreme hear or cold it causes them to expand and contact. This can cause the shingles to crack. 

Roofing Experience Matters

With 35+ years of experience as residential and commercial roofing professionals, we can help answer any question you have regarding asphalt shingles. 

Whether you have questions like, “How long does an asphalt roof last?” Or, “Who is best equipped to install my new roof?” We are happy to provide information and insight. Please contact us with your questions.