Choosing the right roofing system for your home is a critical decision. It’s about protecting your home from the elements, enhancing its curb appeal and ensuring it fits your budget. Enter asphalt shingles, one of the most popular roofing options in Atlanta and beyond. This blog post will give you a deeper understanding of why these popular shingles may be the best value for your money.
1. Durability
Asphalt shingles are known for their robustness and ability to withstand harsh weather conditions. Rain, snow, high winds or scorching sun don’t pose much of a threat to these sturdy shingles. They are designed to resist environmental damage and maintain their structural integrity for an extended period.
Depending on the quality, maintenance and installation of add-on features that help extend your roof’s life, such as adhesive reinforcement and breathable underlayment, asphalt shingles can last 20 to 30 years, making them a worthy investment for your home. These days, roofers rely heavily on asphalt shingles’ durability.
2. Variety of Styles and Colors
Who said roofing materials could be boring? Asphalt shingles are available in various styles, shapes and colors that can match any architectural design or personal preference. From the classic three-tab shingles to the high-end, dimensional shingles, there is something for every taste and budget.
Moreover, asphalt shingles in almost every color, from neutrals like grey and black to bold tones like blue and red. Some options mimic other roofing materials, such as tile and slate. This variety allows you to customize your roof to enhance the visual appeal of your home and increase its value.
3. Easy Installation
Asphalt shingles are relatively easy to install, are compatible with most roofing slopes, and do not require much structural support compared to other roofing materials due to their lightweight quality. This feature can save you money on installation costs and reduce the time it takes to have your new roof ready. The installation involves applying the shingles in rows and securing them with nails. It’s a straightforward process, with installation being simple and quick, but professional roofing companies should do it to ensure the roof performs optimally.
4. Cost-Effectiveness
One of the main reasons homeowners choose asphalt shingles is their cost-effectiveness. Not only are they affordable to purchase, but their installation costs are also relatively low because of the simplicity of the process. When you compare the expense with the lifespan of the shingles, it’s clear that asphalt shingles offer a high return on investment.
Of course, like any home improvement project, the exact cost will depend on various factors, including the size of your roof and the specific type of shingle you choose. Plus, since they’re so durable, you’ll save money on maintenance, repairs and replacement costs in the long run.
5. Energy Efficiency
Asphalt shingles can improve your home’s energy efficiency. They are designed to reflect solar heat instead of absorbing it. This helps to maintain a comfortable temperature inside your home throughout the year.
This feature can reduce your reliance on air conditioning during the hot summer months and heat in the winter, leading to substantial savings on energy bills. It may even qualify you for a federal tax credit. It’s no wonder that roof replacements often involve the installation of energy-efficient asphalt shingles, such as ENERGY STAR®-certified ones.
6. Environmentally Friendly Option
Asphalt shingles are also a more environmentally friendly option, contributing to their overall value for money. Many manufacturers utilize recycled materials, such as reclaimed asphalt and waste shingles, to produce new shingles.
Moreover, old asphalt shingles can be recycled and used for multiple purposes, including road construction and repairs. This reduces the amount of waste in landfills, lowers emissions related to production of the asphalt materials and promotes sustainability, making them an eco-friendly choice in the roofing industry.
7. Noise Reduction
Asphalt shingles offer a notable level of noise reduction, making them an ideal choice for houses in noisy neighborhoods or close to busy roads. The thickness and density of the shingles, combined with the underlay and roof decking, work together to dampen exterior noise, maintaining a more peaceful and quieter interior atmosphere for homeowners.
8. Wide Range of Quality
Asphalt shingles are available in various quality levels, depending on each homeowner’s requirements. The most common types of asphalt shingles are three-tab, architectural (laminated) and premium. Each type offers different features and benefits, such as enhanced durability, better wind resistance or improved appearance. Homeowners can choose from this array of quality levels to find the best balance between their budget and desired performance.
9. Proven Track Record
Asphalt shingles have a long history and proven record of providing reliable, long-lasting roofing solutions. Homeowners have been using this cost-effective material for decades to protect their homes.
The fact that asphalt shingles have remained popular over the years is a testament to their overall value and performance capabilities. Many manufacturers offer robust warranties on their asphalt shingles and accessories, which shows they stand behind their products. On top of that, years of use have allowed roofing professionals to refine installation and repair techniques, further increasing their effectiveness.
10. Enhanced Protection
In addition to their primary role as the first line of defense against harsh weather conditions and environmental elements, asphalt shingles can enhance your home’s protection. Various asphalt shingle options are available in the market featuring advanced technologies such as resistance to fire, algae and impact from hail. These advanced features make asphalt shingles a more resilient and protective roofing solution.
Let ImproveIT! of Atlanta Install Your Asphalt Shingle Roof!
If you live in Atlanta, Sandy Springs, Marietta or Alpharetta, GA, and are considering a new asphalt shingle roof, you can count on the skilled professionals at ImproveIT! of Atlanta to provide you with a top-notch solution that suits your needs and budget. Call us at (770) 612-5635 to start your project today. You may also fill out our contact form to request an estimate.