CUSTOMER REVIEWS
One of the most important decisions homeowners can make is choosing roofing materials. A strong, solid roof is essential for the safety and comfort of your home. Understanding your options can help you make informed decisions about which materials are the best to use. Beantown Home Improvements is here to explain the key differences between composite and asphalt shingles to help you make the right choice when the time comes to redo your roof.
Asphalt or Synthetic Shingles: Make the Right Choice for Your Home
Composite or synthetic shingles are made of polymer or recycled materials. Manufacturers design them to look just like natural slate or cedar when on your roof. Composite shingles are manufactured using molds of real slate and cedar shakes to ensure that synthetic copies look as authentic as possible. Professional roofers who look closely at these shingles can tell the difference between them and their natural counterparts, but most people driving by your home wouldn’t see the difference.
Asphalt shingles are the most common shingle roofing found on American homes today. These shingles are made from fiberglass, tar, and granules laid on a fiberglass mat. However, not all asphalt shingles are the same. The three types of asphalt shingles available on the market are 3-tab, architectural, and luxury. Asphalt 3-tab shingles lay flat on the roof. They were the most common shingle roofing, but architectural shingles are now more popular. Architectural shingles are laid in a random pattern to mimic natural materials. Luxury shingles are designed to look like slate.
Durability
Composite shingles usually contain a combination of plastic, rubber, and other materials. Though these shingles copy the look of traditional roofing materials, such as wood or slate, they provide more durability. Synthetic shingles have a lifespan of 40 to 50 years, depending on the product. They’re resistant to rot, insects, and extreme weather conditions such as high winds and hail. This resilience makes them a great choice if your area sees a lot of weather extremes.
Asphalt shingles are the most common type used on homes in North America. Their popularity stems from their affordability and quick and easy installation. However, the tradeoff for a lower price and easy installation is a shorter lifespan. Asphalt shingles usually last for around 30 years, as they’re easily affected by weather extremes. Over time, harsh weather conditions could cause issues such as curling, warping, or granule loss.
Cost
The initial cost of composite shingles can be higher than asphalt, typically ranging from $7 to $14 per square foot. However, when you factor in their longevity, you may find that they offer better value in the long term. Many composite shingles also come with comprehensive warranties, further contributing to their cost-effectiveness.
Asphalt shingles are a more budget-friendly option and generally cost between $3 and $5 per square foot. This price varies depending on the type of shingle you choose and your home’s location. They’re consistently cheaper than composite shingles, so they may be the more appealing choice for many homeowners. However, you need to keep in mind that the lower cost is balanced by potential replacement or repairs sooner than with composite shingles.
Aesthetics
Composite shingles are largely favored for their enhanced aesthetic appeal. They’re available in a variety of colors, styles, and textures that can mimic the appearance of other roofing materials, such as wood shakes, slate, or tile. This wide range of options allows you to customize your roof’s look to match your unique style. Composite shingles can enhance the curb appeal of your property, making them a preferred choice for many homeowners looking to improve their home’s exterior.
Asphalt shingles also come in many colors and styles, making it easy to find a shingle that matches your home’s overall look and feel. However, they lack the ability to copy more expensive natural materials. Depending on their quality, asphalt shingles can sometimes fade over time, which might affect their overall aesthetic appeal.
Maintenance
Maintenance for composite shingles is generally minimal due to their well-known durability and resistance to nature. They don’t require regular treatments for rot or pest protection, which can alleviate some of the burdens associated with roof upkeep. Regular inspections to check for any debris buildup or damage are often sufficient, especially after severe weather.
Asphalt shingles are relatively easy to maintain, but they can be more susceptible to wear and damage, especially in harsh weather. You may need to clean the roof more frequently to prevent moss and algae growth, as well as inspect for granule loss or curling edges. Additional repairs may be needed over time due to impact damage from hail or debris.
Key Takeaways
Composite and asphalt shingles offer homeowners the ability to customize the look of their homes and provide solid protection from the elements. There are, however, some important differences to consider when choosing between the two. If your budget allows, composite shingles can provide you with longer-lasting protection from the elements and fewer maintenance tasks in the long run. If you’re looking to spend less upfront, asphalt shingles may be the better option, although you could be sacrificing durability.
Let Beantown Home Improvements Help With Your Roofing Needs
If it’s time to get a new roof on your home or business, call Beantown Home Improvements today to get started. We’ll be happy to answer your questions and provide you with a free quote. Our qualified team of roofing professionals has decades of experience, so you can rest assured that your home will be in good hands.