New Roof Replacement: Asphalt Shingles or Other Materials?
The spring, summer, and fall can be the best time to have a new roof installed as the days are warmer and most construction contractors have their maximum crew available. In the case of asphalt shingles, the warmer temps allow the tar on the back of the shingle to create a seal almost instantly after installation.
If your looking for a new roof, asphalt shingles are the most common material used. It’s estimated that about 70% of residential roofs in North America contain the asphalt/fiberglass shingle, either 3-tab or architectural style. Using asphalt shingles is great choice, but just know that they are not your only option:
Asphalt Shingles and Their Benefits
There are two major reasons why our customers in the Twin Cities area choose asphalt shingles for their home. The first is that they are the most cost effective material of everything you could use for your home. The second is that asphalt shingles are currently on the home and it’s often easiest to replace with the same kind of roof.
Homeowners also like using asphalt because it offers the ‘traditional’ look. Metal roofs can provide a more modern style while shakes can look rustic – especially if all the other houses on your block contain asphalt roofs.
Asphalt can also be the go-to option if your home has a lot of dormers, valleys, and peaks as they are very easy to cut and work with. This also helps reduce labor costs compared to cutting metal or installing tedious pieces of shakes.
Why Should I Look at Other Styles of Roofs?
For all the positives that an asphalt shingle roof brings to your home, there’s one thing the product just doesn’t have – and that’s longevity. This is especially true in our Minnesota climate where ice dams and snow exposure wear the shingles quicker – but so does the summer heat. Homes near lakes where moisture and trees are prevalent can also cause algae to grow on the shingles.
There also isn’t much ROI when you install an asphalt shingle roof. Standard asphalt shingles also do not improve energy efficiency. This type of roof can be a source of energy loss if the attic is not properly ventilated and insulated.
Take a look at metal roofing on the other hand. It has a higher initial cost but also a longer life span (+ 25 years or more) so the actual annual costs are lower. Metal roofing is nearly impervious to snow, ice damage, and also reflects the sun’s UV rays which drives cooling costs down in the summer. Potential buyers look at a metal roof as an asset.
Asphalt shingles also aren’t the most environmentally friendly product from the production to the inevitable disposal. Metal roofs can be recycled when their life span is over (asphalt shingle recycling is becoming more common) while wood and cedar shingles are biodegradable.
Shingles or Other Roofing Material Summary
It is good to know you have options when it comes to having your new roof installed. Please contact Snap Construction to determine the right type of roof for your location, budget, and tastes. It’s That Easy! 612-333-SNAP or contact@snapconstruction55431.dev8.sociusinc.com
