Asphalt shingle roofing is a popular roofing material because it’s cost-effective, durable, and comes in a range of styles and colors. As a top roofing company in Wichita, KS, Dingers Roofing & Construction provides asphalt shingle roofing for residential and commercial properties throughout south-central Kansas.
What Is Asphalt Shingle Roofing?
When you picture an average home here in Kansas, you most likely envision it with an asphalt shingle roof. Asphalt shingles are typically made with a fiberglass mat base. This mat is then coated with asphalt for stability and waterproofing. The top layer is grit or fine granules that reflect sunlight and give the shingles their color.
Types of Asphalt Shingles
There are three main types of asphalt shingles: 3-tab, architectural, and luxury. To make an informed decision about which roofing material is best for your roof replacement or roof installation, it helps to understand the different types of asphalt shingles available. When you know the unique benefits and aesthetic appeal of each option, you can choose the shingles that fit your budget with the performance and appearance you’re looking for.
3-Tab Asphalt Shingles
Also referred to as strip shingles, 3-tab shingles are the least expensive type of asphalt shingles. They consist of a single strip divided into three sections, or tabs, at the bottom, which is where they get their name.
3-tab asphalt shingles are a popular roofing option because they’re cost-effective and provide good roof protection. They’re relatively easy to install because they lay completely flat, which saves on labor costs.
However, 3-tab shingles have the shortest lifespan of all asphalt shingle types, lasting about 15-20 years. This may not be a concern if you’re not planning to live in your home that long, but if you’re looking for a longer-term roofing solution, you may want to invest in a more durable type of asphalt roofing.
Architectural Asphalt Shingles
Dimensional or architectural asphalt shingles are the most popular type of asphalt roof shingle. They’re installed on homes more than any other type of asphalt roofing, and in fact they’re the most popular roof material installed on homes overall.
Architectural shingles are made with multiple layers, which gives them a more textured appearance than basic three-tab shingles. This also makes them thicker and stronger, so they resist damage from storms better. Dimensional shingles’ weather-resistance and durability gives them a longer lifespan than 3-tab shingles, ranging from about 22 to 25 years.
Although they cost more than basic 3-tab shingles, architectural shingles can provide the look of more expensive roofing materials like wood shake or slate at a lower price point.
Luxury Asphalt Shingles
Also called designer shingles, luxury asphalt shingles are a premium roofing material that can duplicate the look of natural slate tile and other premium roofing materials. Luxury shingles are a popular choice for homeowners looking for enhanced curb appeal with a high-end look.
As you might expect, designer shingles are also the most expensive asphalt shingle type, but their enhanced durability makes them a smart investment. Luxury shingles are durable and stand up well to storm damage. They can last 30 years or more, making them the longest-lasting asphalt roofing shingle.
Benefits of Asphalt Shingle Roofs
An asphalt roofing system is a popular choice for both residential and commercial buildings because it’s affordable, durable, versatile, easy to install and low-maintenance.
Affordable
Not only are asphalt shingles themselves more affordable than premium materials like slate roofs or clay tile roofs, but they’re also lighter and easier to install. This keeps the labor costs down so you get more for your money in terms of the actual shingle product. There are even shingles with solar-reflective granules that can keep your home cooler in the summer and improve energy efficiency.
Durable
Here in Kansas, our homes are subjected to harsh weather year-round, including wind, hail, snow, heavy rain and extreme heat. That’s why it’s important to choose a strong, durable roofing material. Today’s asphalt shingles are made to protect structures from rain, snow, hail and even the sun. Some types even offer a level of fire-resistance, and high-performance impact-resistant shingles, such as Class 4 shingles, offer added protection against hail damage.
Versatility
Asphalt shingles are available in a variety of colors, styles and textures. If you’re concerned about curb appeal but you’re on a tight budget, architectural & luxury asphalt shingles allow you to recreate the look of more expensive stone or wood roofing tiles without the high price tag. Asphalt roofing can be installed on almost any roof shape – even ones with a steep pitch.
Easy Installation & Maintenance
Compared to natural stone or wood roofing, asphalt shingles are lighter and easier to install. This means they can be installed faster so you save money on labor costs. Asphalt shingles need relatively little maintenance. A periodic roof inspection to check for deterioration, missing shingles, or damage from storms, wind or hail is all that’s needed. As with any roofing material, it’s also important to clean the gutters regularly to ensure water drains correctly and to keep debris from building up at the roof edge.
Pros and Cons of Asphalt Shingles
Pros
- Affordable
- Low-maintenance
- Simple to install
- Easy to replace
- Durable
- Lots of colors and textures available
Cons
- Prone to damage from storms & high wind
- Not suitable for flat roofs
- Doesn’t last as long as other roofing types
Asphalt Shingle Cost
The cost of asphalt shingles depends on the type and brand, but they’re generally less expensive than cedar, slate or tile roofs. Asphalt roofing is available in a range of price points, making it a cost-effective roofing material for most homeowners.
Lifespan
Asphalt shingles can last anywhere from 15 to 50 years or more, depending on the type. 3-tab shingles usually have the shortest lifespan at 15-20 years, while luxury shingles can last 30 years or even more.
Wichita Asphalt Shingle Roofing Installation Experts
If you’re looking for residential or commercial asphalt shingle roof installation in the Wichita area, count on Dingers Roofing & Construction. We’re licensed and insured, and financing is available. Your asphalt roof will come with a lifetime warranty on the shingles and a 5-year workmanship warranty. Call us at 316-202-2066 for a free roofing estimate.
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Dingers Roofing did an excellent job and went above and beyond what was required after a clean-up mishap. I would recommend to all and definitely hire again.
Asphalt Roofing Ideas
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- Architectural Asphalt Shingles
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- Asphalt Shingle Installation
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- Asphalt Shingles On New Home
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- Asphalt Shingle Roofing
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- Brown Asphalt Shingles
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- Gray Asphalt Shingles
FAQs
Can I install an asphalt shingle roof myself?
We don’t recommend installing an asphalt shingle roof yourself. An experienced and licensed roofing contractor like Dingers Roofing & Construction has the skill and knowledge to install your roof correctly. This not only prevents costly leaks and damage, but professional roof installation is usually required to maintain shingle manufacturers’ warranties.
How do I choose the right color asphalt shingles for my home?
Selecting a shingle color can be a difficult choice. You want to consider the color and style of your home as well as the overall look you’re going for. We recommend checking manufacturers’ websites to see color samples and help visualize how they’ll look on your home.
How much does it cost to replace an asphalt shingle roof?
Your roof replacement cost will primarily depend on the size of your roof and the type of shingles you choose. When you get an estimate from a roofer, it should include the cost of the shingles as well as the labor costs for tearing off the old roof and installing the new roof.
How long does an asphalt shingle roof last?
There are several factors that can affect a shingle’s lifespan, such as the quality, how it’s installed, your local weather conditions and any maintenance that’s performed. Generally, asphalt shingle roofs can be expected to last between 15 and 30 years, with higher-end shingles lasting even longer.
