If you’re like many people, you already have an asphalt roof on your home. In fact, the vast majority of homes in Texas feature asphalt shingles. That’s because they’re generally cost-effective, provide ample protection for the home, and come in a wide range of colors and styles that make them match a home’s entire aesthetic.
Asphalt roofing is among the most popular type of roofing. Generally, this type of roof features shingles – thin, square or rectangular pieces of matting made from organic materials like cellulose, wood fiber or other materials that are saturated with asphalt and covered in coating to make them waterproof.
These roofs are very sturdy, with most lasting between 20 and 30 years, and they’re typically very cost-effective; that’s what makes them such a popular choice.
Asphalt roofs usually last between 20 and 30 years, though some last longer. Unfortunately, an improperly installed asphalt roof won’t last as long as it could; you may need to replace your entire roof before you expected to if it wasn’t put on properly the first time.
Many asphalt shingle manufacturers offer warranties on their products, which cover normal wear and tear to the shingles themselves, and some Texas roofing contractors offer warranties on workmanship, as well.
The cost of any roofing project, including asphalt roofing, depends on several factors, including:
Every project is different, which means your costs will vary. The best way to find out how much it’ll cost you to get new asphalt roofing is to get a free roof inspection from Brotherhood Roofing – we can tell you exactly how much it’s likely to cost to replace your roof based on all the factors that make your home unique.
Whether you want your roof to last longer or to look good longer, neither a light roof or dark roof matters – what matters is the type of shingles you choose and the kind of warranty that comes with them. For example, a lighter roof may look better on your home because of its design and style, or a darker roof may look better. As asphalt roofing materials degrade over time, their colors may change, as well; light-colored roofs may become darker, and dark-colored roofs may become lighter.
There are three main types of asphalt roofing:
Each type of asphalt shingle creates a different look and has its own lifespan, which the following sections address.
The most common type of asphalt roofing material is the three-tab shingle. These shingles are affordable and, under the right conditions, may last for several decades. However, they come with their own challenges, such as having fewer aesthetic options. Generally, three-tab shingles look the same (apart from color).
The most basic and economical three-tab shingles are made from a single layer of fiberglass or another material that’s coated with mineral granules. The granules are where various colors come in.
Dimensional shingles are sometimes called laminated or architectural shingles. These shingles comprise two layers of shingles that are bonded together. Dimensional shingles are very durable, and they can last 30 years or more with proper maintenance and care. However, these shingles are more costly than standard three-tab shingles are.
Luxury shingles are the most costly of all, though they’re still considered fairly affordable. These shingles provide a multidimensional appearance. Luxury shingles are more durable than other types, and they’re designed to look like natural slate or cedar shakes (but they cost much less than slate and cedar do). They’re also heavier than their asphalt roofing counterparts; they can weigh twice as much as three-tab shingles do.
Asphalt roofing is far and away the most popular roofing material for residential homes. They’re lightweight, affordable and durable, and they can provide superior protection for your home.
However, they aren’t the right choice for everyone. In some cases, a cedar shake roof, slate or clay tiles are better choices than asphalt roofing is. Generally, this depends on your home’s aesthetic; for example, a Spanish colonial home may look odd with a shingled roof. Popular companies we use for shingles are GAF, Certain Teed, and Owens Corning.
Choosing the right type of asphalt roofing depends on your budget, the look you’re going for, and how long you want your roof to last. Brotherhood roofing can help you find the perfect asphalt roofing materials for your needs with all those things in mind. You’ll want to consider:
If it’s been more than a year since your last professional roof inspection, if your roof is aging (and it’s more than 15 to 20 years old), if your neighbors are starting to get new roofs, or your home has been through a severe storm, it’s time to get a free roof inspection from Brotherhood Roofing.
Our team will evaluate your roof, look for damage and signs of aging, and talk to you about your options for new asphalt roofing.
During your free roof inspection, we’ll explain what’s wrong and discuss your options with you.
