Asphalt Roof Shingles 101: A Comprehensive Guide

Asphalt roof shingles are a popular choice for homeowners due to their affordability and durability. They can last for up to 30 years, depending on the quality and installation.

Asphalt shingles come in a range of colors and styles, making it easy to match your roof to your home's exterior. You can choose from three-tab shingles, architectural shingles, or even solar shingles.

The average cost of asphalt roof shingles can vary depending on the type and quality, but on average, it costs between $3 and $7 per square foot. This translates to a total cost of $300 to $700 for a standard 10x10 foot roof.

Asphalt shingles are also relatively easy to install, with most homeowners able to do it themselves with a little practice.

Asphalt roof shingles come in a variety of types, each with its own unique characteristics and benefits. The three main categories of asphalt shingles are strip shingles, dimensional shingles, and luxury shingles.

Strip shingles, also known as 3-tab shingles, are the oldest and least expensive option. They have a single layer with cut-outs forming three individual tabs, which gives the roofing material a repetitive pattern.

Dimensional shingles, also known as architectural shingles, are the most commonly used type today. They have two layers of shingle material bonded together, creating a three-dimensional appearance that's thicker and more textured than strip shingles.

Here are the main types of asphalt shingles:

These types of asphalt shingles are designed to meet different needs and budgets, and choosing the right one can make a big difference in the appearance and durability of your roof.

3-Tab Shingles are a staple material in the roofing industry, known for their simple yet effective design, featuring three uniform tabs per shingle.

They offer a classic look to residential structures and are easy to install, reducing labor costs and installation time for contractors and DIY enthusiasts alike. They typically last between 15 to 25 years with proper maintenance.

One of their primary appeals lies in their low cost, making them an ideal option for budget-conscious homeowners.

Here are some key characteristics of 3-Tab Shingles:

While providing adequate sturdiness and weather resistance, 3-Tab Shingles are not being used as much today and are being replaced by better options.

Asphalt shingles can withstand wind speeds of up to 110 mph, making them a reliable choice for areas with high winds.

If you live in an area with hard rain or hail, it's essential to ask about impact resistance when evaluating your roofing options. Asphalt shingles may be rated from 1 to 4, with 4 being the highest rating.

Erie Home's asphalt shingles carry a Class 3 impact resistance rating, which allows them to withstand hailstones 1.75 inches in diameter.

Most asphalt shingles are fire resistant, providing a degree of fire protection to the roof.

Some asphalt shingles are treated to prevent algae growth, usually with a special copper composition in the granules. This is particularly useful for homeowners living in humid climates.

Solar-reflective shingles have special granules that reflect some of the sun's energy, helping to keep temperatures inside the home cooler and reducing energy consumption.

Asphalt roof shingles offer a wide range of benefits and advantages that make them a popular choice among homeowners.

They're budget-friendly, costing about half of what a metal roof does and around a third of a slate tile roof.

Asphalt shingles are also easy to install, thanks to their lightweight nature, which makes them easy to transport and handle during the installation process.

This also helps reduce the load on the roof structure, making the installation process quicker for contractors.

Asphalt shingles come in a wide variety of colors and styles, allowing homeowners to choose the right look for their home.

They can be used on a wide range of roof designs and shapes, making them a versatile option.

Most manufacturers offer warranties on their asphalt shingles, providing peace of mind for homeowners.

GAF and Owens Corning are two manufacturers who offer a limited lifetime warranty for some of their shingle lines.

Asphalt shingles are also widely available, making it easier to find replacements or additional shingles if needed for repairs or additions.

Here are some of the key benefits and advantages of asphalt roof shingles:

Asphalt roof shingles are relatively easy to install, and you can even put them over your existing shingles if the roof deck is strong enough and there's only one layer. This can save you the cost of removing the old roof.

Asphalt shingles are a cost-effective option, with installation costs ranging from $5,700 to $12,000 for an average 1,800 to 2,500 SF roof. This is significantly lower than other premium materials like natural slate or copper.

To get the longest life out of your asphalt shingles, regular inspections and repairs are essential. A professional roofer can help with this, looking for damage to the shingles and any moss and algae growth. They can then clean or repair the shingles as needed.

Here are some key points to consider for maintenance and repairs:

If you do notice any leaks or water damage, it's essential to deal with them promptly to avoid worsening problems and safeguard the structural integrity of the roof.

Luxury asphalt shingles can add significant value to a home, replicating the look of high-end materials like cedar or slate at a lower cost.

They're typically made of multiple layers of high-quality asphalt and reinforced with durable materials like fiberglass.

Luxury shingles can be a desirable investment for many property owners due to their ability to mimic the appearance of costly materials.

Their unique designs and textures create a striking architectural statement, reflecting sophistication and enhancing the visual appeal of any home.

Asphalt shingles are the easiest of any roofing material to install. They can be installed over your existing shingles, provided the roof deck is strong enough and there's only one existing layer, saving you the cost of removing the old roof.

This ease of installation makes asphalt shingles a great choice for homeowners who want to save time and money.

Regular maintenance is key to extending the life of your asphalt roof. You can remove and replace damaged shingles, saving you the cost of replacing your entire roof.

Proper regular maintenance and repairs are essential for maximizing the lifespan and performance of asphalt shingle roofs. Schedule regular inspections to detect any indications of damage or wear.

A professional roofer can help with periodic inspections and maintenance tasks to ensure thorough and proper care of the roof. They'll look for damage to the shingles, as well as any moss and algae.

By regularly clearing away leaves, branches, and other debris, you can maintain a clean roof and prevent issues like trapped moisture. Accumulated debris can lead to the deterioration of shingles.

Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Deal with leaks promptly to avoid worsening problems and safeguard the structural integrity of the roof. Replace any damaged or missing shingles promptly to maintain the roof's waterproofing and prevent leaks. Address moss and algae growth to prevent further damage to shingles.

Asphalt shingle roofs are a great example of a feature that's often overlooked, but they offer a surprising level of sound protection.

They help insulate sound from external noise, such as heavy rain.

If you're in need of asphalt roof shingle installation, reach out to Kickapoo Roofing in La Crosse, WI, for their professional team to assist you.

Kickapoo Roofing has a team of skilled professionals who provide budget-friendly asphalt roof shingle installations.

Their experts have the expertise to manage any roofing project efficiently.

Return on investment for an asphalt shingle roof is a significant factor in the decision-making process. Asphalt shingle roof costs $3 to $5 per square foot installed, which translates to $3,000 to $5,000 for a 1,000 square foot roof.

The cost of asphalt shingles themselves is around $1 to $2 per square foot for materials, plus $2 to $3 per square foot for installation labor. This means that a 1,000 square foot roof would cost around $3,000 to $5,000, broken down into materials and labor costs.

Asphalt shingle roof replacement costs depend on the shingle style, brand, and quality, and roof size. Contractors’ charge by the square for roof installation or replacement, with one square equal to 100 square feet.

Here's a breakdown of the average cost installed for different roof sizes:

Getting estimates from installers is a crucial step in finding the right roofing company for your needs. To get started, you'll want to get at least three in-person estimates to compare.

You should also look for installers who are certified by the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA). This is a great way to ensure that the installer has the necessary skills and knowledge to do the job right.

When choosing an installer, confirm that they have experience installing asphalt shingle roofs. This is especially important if you're looking for a specific type of roofing material.

Check online reviews on HomeGuide and Google to see what other customers have to say about the installer. You can also check their licenses, insurance, and bonding status to ensure they're legitimate and reliable.

Here are some key things to look for in an estimate:

By following these steps, you can get a better sense of which installer is right for you and ensure that your roof is installed correctly and safely.

Asphalt roof shingles can be a cost-effective option for homeowners. The cost of asphalt shingles varies depending on the style, brand, and quality.

A bundle of shingles costs between $27 and $45 on average and covers 32 to 33 square feet. The material cost per square for asphalt shingles is between $80 and $280.

The cost of asphalt shingles can also vary depending on the type, with 3-tab shingles being the cheapest option. The cost per square for 3-tab shingles is between $80 and $130 for materials and $200 to $500 installed.

Here are some estimates for the cost of asphalt shingles per square foot:

The total cost of replacing an asphalt shingle roof can range from $2,000 to $16,500 for an average-sized house, depending on the factors mentioned above.

Asphalt roof shingles have come a long way in terms of styling options. There are now a wide variety of options to choose from, including different colors, shapes, styles, and more.

If you're looking for a durable roof that will last as long as possible, a metal roof might be the way to go. However, if you're on a budget, an asphalt shingle roof is still a great option that's long-lasting and durable.

The choice between a metal roof and an asphalt shingle roof ultimately comes down to your priorities.

If you're torn between a metal roof and an asphalt roof, consider your priorities. A metal roof is the most durable option, lasting as long as possible, but it comes with a higher price tag.

If budget is a concern, an asphalt shingle roof is a cost-effective option that's still long-lasting and durable.

If you're looking for a durable roof that will last as long as possible, a metal roof is a great option. However, it comes with a higher price tag.

Asphalt shingles are a cost-effective alternative that can still provide long-lasting results. Within this category, there are three different types: 3-tab, dimensional, and luxury.

Luxury shingles typically last longer than basic 3-tab shingles. Dimensional shingles offer a three-dimensional look and are the most popular type of asphalt shingles used today.

If you're considering asphalt shingles, here are some top brands to look out for: Owens CorningCertainTeedGAFMalarkey