Choosing a roofing material can feel overwhelming. For Wichita homeowners, asphalt shingles are often the go-to choice because of their cost, versatile look and wide availability. However, higher-quality options like slate roofing provide greater protection with a focus on natural beauty and longevity. At Dingers Roofing and Construction, we’ve broken down factors like lifespan, maintenance, aesthetics and cost to help you understand the differences between shingles and slate roofing, ensuring you’re well-equipped to make the best choice for your Kansas home.
Understanding Asphalt Shingles
What are Asphalt Shingles?
Asphalt shingles are made of thin fiberglass sheets that are coated in asphalt and embedded with granules. While simple in concept, there are 3 shingle types with varying benefits: 3-tab, architectural and luxury shingles. In general, 3-tab shingles will be your most budget-friendly but least durable shingle. They’re Followed by architectural shingles that cost slightly more but provide more protection by including multiple layers of fiberglass. Finally, we have luxury shingles which are the most expensive option. These are also the most durable asphalt shingles because they have layers of fiberglass along with special coatings.
Pros of Asphalt Shingles
- Affordable initial cost
- Wide variety of colors and versatile styles
- Lightweight
- Easy installation and repair
- Widely available
- Most asphalt shingles are fire resistant
Cons of Asphalt Shingles
- Shorter lifespan (15-30 years) compared to slate
- Less resistant to hail and impact damage
- Can be more prone to wind damage
- Requires frequent maintenance
- Less eco friendly than slate
Ideal for: Budget-conscious homeowners, those that live in moderate climates and people seeking style, color and texture variety.
Exploring Slate Roofing
What Is Slate Roofing?
Elegant, natural and eye-catching, slate roofing is a highly durable option for homeowners that prioritize protection. Slate is a stone formed from clay or volcanic ash, quarried and cut into different sizes. As a naturally occurring material, slate prevents water, sun, fire and pest damage. These benefits raise the cost of slate and require specialized installation. However, when it comes to aesthetics, slate roofing provides textured surfaces with beautiful natural ridges and plenty of natural variation to suit your style needs.
Pros of Slate Roofing
- Extremely long lifespan of 50-100+ years
- Excellent resistance to hail, fire, and wind
- Adds significant value to a home
- Requires less repair and maintenance than shingle roofs
- More energy efficient and eco friendly
Cons of Slate Roofing
- High upfront cost
- Requires specialized installation
- Heavy material, may require roof reinforcement
- Limited style choices compared to asphalt shingle roofing
- Expensive roof installation
Ideal for: Homeowners seeking a long-term investment, those prioritizing durability and classic beauty and homes with sturdy structures.
Key Considerations for Kansas Homes
Kansas Weather
Extreme Kansas weather can throw a lot at your roof: ripping, puncturing and warping shingles while causing long-term damage to your home. High durability shingle options, like class four shingles, prevent hail damage with extensive impact resistance. On the other hand, slate’s density makes it naturally more impact resistant. Whether you choose asphalt shingles or slate roofing, consider if your roof can withstand the elements. Choosing a durable roof replacement material will cut back on roof repairs and save you money in the long run.
Home Style
The architectural style of your home can impact your roofing choice. Asphalt shingle roofing is a great option for modern homes. With uniform styles and an extensive choice of colors, asphalt shingles create clean simple lines that pair great with modern looks. For homes with a traditional approach, slate offers a natural, authentic charm with its textured surface and subtle details.
Budget
Affordable up front, asphalt shingles cost little to install yet they may require frequent repairs. In the United States, homeowners spend approximately $875 annually on repairs for asphalt roofs and around $12,500 for roof replacement. Unlike asphalt roofs, slate roofs require thorough repairs around every 10 years and costs approximately $1,625 to fix. However, slate roofing needs specialized installation, and certain roofing systems may need to be strengthened to support the weight. Altogether, slate costs two times as much as asphalt to properly install.
Shingles vs Slate: Making the Right Decision
With much more to consider than just price and looks, we recommend basing your final decision between asphalt shingles and slate roofing, on your priorities. Asphalt shingle roofing may be the best option for homeowners focusing on budget and contemporary aesthetics, while those considering slate roofing may prioritize longevity over price and traditional home styles. To help you make the best decision for your Wichita home, contact Dingers Roofing and Construction for a free roof inspection or consultation. We’ll help you navigate the types of roofing and find the perfect fit for your home and budget.