Why Asphalt? Top Five Advantages of Asphalt Roofing Shingles

By Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA). 

Learn about the value of using asphalt shingles for your roof. 

Asphalt is one of the most popular types of roofing materials in North America, offering beauty, versatility, weather resistance and reliability. Many homeowners consider the ample benefits of asphalt shingles when selecting a residential roofing system. In addition to having a variety of shingle shapes, textures and colors, asphalt roofing shingles are cost-effective and easy to maintain. Here are the top five reasons why you should consider utilizing asphalt shingles for your roof: 

1 - Asphalt shingles are versatile. 

Asphalt shingles are known for versatility and can be utilized on roofs of various sizes and complexities. The shingles are compatible with most roof types and work well with almost any architectural style. One of the unique properties of asphalt roofing is its ability to conform to different rooflines, angles and pitches. Moreover, asphalt is available in several color palettes, enabling homeowners to select an option that best matches the exterior color scheme.  

2 - Asphalt shingles are beautiful. 

Asphalt delivers a combination of beauty and value. Asphalt shingles come in a wide array of textures and styles – some even emulate other roofing materials like wood, slate or cedar. Additionally, asphalt shingles come in hundreds of different color combinations. Another great feature is the broad range of patterns and designs that complement nearly any home aesthetic. One of the biggest advantages of asphalt roofing is that it is aesthetically versatile.  

3 - Asphalt shingles are affordable and reliable. 

Roofing materials are a critical component of every home, whether you are installing a new roof or replacing an existing roofing system. Asphalt shingles are one of the most affordable options when it comes to roofing materials. Asphalt shingles offer cost-effective performance and protection from the elements. They provide weather, fire and wind resistance. 

Here are some features that asphalt shingles can offer to enhance the value and protection of residential roofing systems:  

• Class A fire classification  
• Wind resistance  
• Sound protection 
• Impact-rated  
• Algae-resistance  
• Solar reflectance  

4 - Asphalt shingles are easy to install, repair and modify. 

Properly installed asphalt roofs are exceptionally durable, easy to repair and do not require structural changes to support their weight. Asphalt shingles are neither too light nor too heavy, so they are not prone to uplift problems and do not require reinforcement. Since asphalt shingles are easy to transport and adaptable to fit various roofs, installation is straightforward and efficient. Asphalt roof repairs are fairly simple but must be executed with detail to ensure maximum life expectancy. Plus, asphalt shingles are more flexible than other types of roofing materials. If you want to install a chimney, skylight or other roofing feature, it is easy for a contractor to modify one section of the roof without disturbing the entire roofing system. 

5 - Asphalt shingles can be recycled and improve energy efficiency. 

Asphalt roofing is eco-friendly, meaning that, where a recycling facility is available, shingles can be recycled and later used in new roofing materials, pavement and other applications. Asphalt shingles are often recyclable even after being in use for over 20 years, making them a more sustainable choice. Additionally, there is a diverse palette of “cool” asphalt shingles available that can reduce the energy required to cool a home, depending on the building design and location. 

When considering the benefits, asphalt shingles offer a balance of affordability and functionality. With asphalt roofing, you have many cost-effective, reliable and beautiful options.  

To learn more about asphalt roofing, visit the directory page for Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) or visit asphaltroofing.org. 

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