Asphalt shingles are a common type of roofing material found in homes across the world. However, they are not without their faults and there are other types of shingles that can be even better. Below, we will go through those advantages and disadvantages to make it easier for you to decide whether asphalt shingles are worth it or whether you should look into other material choices.

 

Asphalt Shingles

 

Asphalt shingles are typically made up of three main materials: asphalt, mineral granules and asphalt emulsion. These materials are mixed together in different ratios depending on the style and quality of the shingle that you want. The more mineral granules contained in the mixture, the longer they will last with respect to cracking, fading etc. (See below table).

 

The first step towards the manufacturing of asphalt shingles is in mixing together the ingredients. Each mixture has different ratios of asphalt to emulsion to mineral granules depending on the quality that you want and how long they last.

 

The asphalt used in asphalt shingles is usually a 50/50 mix of Portland cement and fly ash. This particular mix was used because it is inexpensive and easy to manufacture, so it tends to be pretty cheap. This also makes it a good fit for many homes across the country. However, this mix has a pretty bad reputation regarding its durability and ability to withstand temperatures below freezing without cracking, so there are other mixes out there that are better suited for colder climates (See below tables).

 

However, despite the fact that this particular type of asphalt shingle lasts for a short amount of time and is more expensive, it still remains the most commonly used shingle in the country. And for good reason; its low cost allows many people to be able to afford it and get it put onto their house.

 

When you pay a lower price for any product, you’re bound to get what you pay for and this is often the case with asphalt shingles. Asphalt shingles are known to be pretty smooth which means that they don’t provide too much protection from the elements but usually keep water out of your home.

 

However, this can also be an advantage in some cases as it keeps your house cooler in the summer. So, while they don’t last long, they’re typically pretty easy to install and cheap enough that you can just go ahead and get a new one every 5-10 years.

 

Pros of Asphalt Shingles

 

Cheap to buy and install. This makes them a good choice for renters or people who don’t plan on staying in their homes for more than 5-10 years. They’re also pretty easy to put on compared to other types of roofing materials and are very quick to install.

 

This makes them a good choice for renters or people who don’t plan on staying in their homes for more than 5-10 years. They’re also pretty easy to put on compared to other types of roofing materials and are very quick to install. Lasts for a long time. The same stuff that is used in making asphalt shingles are usually pretty cheap and can last for quite some time so your roof doesn’t need to be replaced that often.

 

The same stuff that is used in making asphalt shingles are usually pretty cheap and can last for quite some time so your roof doesn’t need to be replaced that often. Easy to install . If you have a very flat roof then you can just lay the shingles down and be done with it.

 

If you have a very flat roof then you can just lay the shingles down and be done with it. Keeps your house cooler in hot weather . Asphalt shingles usually aren’t too thick, so they help keep the heat out of your home and let in some cool air during hot weather.

 

Asphalt shingles usually aren’t too thick, so they help keep the heat out of your home and let in some cool air during hot weather. Gives an attractive look to your house . They’re relatively cheap, easy to install and look really good on your house.

 

They’re relatively cheap, easy to install and look really good on your house. Keeps out rain. Asphalt shingles are usually pretty low in price so if you need a roof that can handle more heavy rainfall, they might not be the best choice because they will not last very long under water pressure. However, if you do not need such a roofing material then it’s a good choice for you.

 

Cons of Asphalt Shingles

 

Not as durable as some other types of roofing materials . They are fairly prone to cracking in the winter and they will often crack if they’ve been exposed to too much sunlight. You’ll probably end up having to replace them after 10-20 years due to this which can get expensive quickly.

 

They are fairly prone to cracking in the winter and they will often crack if they’ve been exposed to too much sunlight. You’ll probably end up having to replace them after 10-20 years due to this which can get expensive quickly. Poor insulation value . It’s not very effective in insulating your house, so it’s not a great choice if you want to keep the heat inside of your home.

 

Cannot handle cold temperatures . Asphalt shingles are usually fairly thin and won’t be very good at handling extremely cold temperatures. If you live somewhere that gets plenty of snow and strong winds then this may be a problem for you.

 

Bottom line

If you’re looking to get a roof that looks nice, is easy to install and won’t last long, then asphalt shingles might just be the best option for you. Just make sure you’re aware of their drawbacks such as how long they last and their low insulation value.