Pros & Cons of Asphalt Shingles

Should You Consider Asphalt Shingles?

If you are getting ready to replace your roof, you may be wondering what type of material is best for your situation. Asphalt roofing is the most popular type of roofing across the U.S. With their affordable cost, lots of style options, and general versatility, they are a good option for many people. But are they right for you? Below we look at America's most popular type of roofing and consider the potential benefits and drawbacks they offer homeowners.

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Keep reading for a few of the pros and cons of asphalt shingles for roofing in Arizona.

Pro: Get a Lot of Bang for Your Buck

Generally speaking, asphalt shingles are the most affordable roofing option. However, it's not just their lower relative cost that is attractive to homeowners. It is the value they represent. Not only are they less expensive to purchase and install, but they are also durable and long-lasting, making them a great deal.

There are three types of asphalt roofing:

• 3-Tab: the most common type of asphalt shingle with a flat appearance.
• Dimensional: also called architectural shingles, these have a more substantial, three-dimensional appearance than 3-tab shingles.
• Luxury: also called designer shingles, these are the most expensive and most often are designed to mimic the look of slate tiles.

Asphalt shingles will last for around 25 years and stand up well to the heat and sun in Arizona. Further adding to their appeal, asphalt shingles are some of the fastest and easiest to install and fairly easy to maintain. We recommend that you have your asphalt roof inspected once a year and reach out to Lyons Roofing any time you see signs of a repair problem.

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Con: Don't Last as Long as Other Materials

One thing to consider about asphalt shingles is that while they will last for over two decades, other materials may last longer. For example, if well taken care of, tile roofing can last well over 50 years, and in some cases, over a century. In particular, slate tile roofs are some of the longest-lasting, with an average lifespan expectancy of 75+ years.

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However, for most people, asphalt shingles will outlast the length of time they live in that particular home. According to Redfin, the average tenure for a homeowner as of is 13.2 years. Therefore, the longevity of materials should only be one factor you consider when selecting your roofing materials. While the lifespan of materials matters, you also need to consider the value you personally are getting from the investment.

Pro: Lots of Options

Asphalt shingles are one of the most diverse roofing types, with a wide range of options to choose from. In addition to selecting the specific type of asphalt shingle you want (3-Tab, dimensional/architectural, or luxury/designer), they also offer an extensive color palette. Consequently, with asphalt shingles, you can get virtually any look you want.

Furthermore, with some higher-end, luxury asphalt shingles, you can select products that mimic other materials, like slate. And though these luxury shingles are significantly more expensive than the 3-tab variety, they are still less costly than true slate tiles. They are also much lighter, putting less stress on your home's structure than traditional slate.

Con: You Have to Be Careful About Moisture

Like many roofing materials, moisture is the enemy when it comes to asphalt shingles. While your shingles are designed to withstand wind, rain, hail, snow, and ice, they are not impervious. If not maintained or when repair problems are ignored, asphalt shingles can become susceptible to moisture. Moisture and water can cause shingles to lift, bubble, and degrade much faster than they ordinarily would. Moisture and condensation can also lead to mold, mildew, and algae growth.

To protect your asphalt roof from moisture and water damage, you should:

• Walk around your home and inspect your roof several times a year, paying attention to signs of water damage.
• Keep your roof clean and free of debris, like branches, leaves, and other debris.
• Look for signs of leaks inside your home, such as water staining, musty odors, and increased humidity in your attic or crawlspace
• Install adequate attic ventilation to improve airflow around your roof, keeping it dry and preventing superheating
• Schedule yearly roof maintenance with Lyons Roofing.

Are you considering installing an asphalt roof on your Tuscon or Phoenix home? Contact Lyons Roofing for guidance. We have installed and maintained thousands of asphalt roofs over the years and are standing by to answer your questions.

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