Advantages and Disadvantages of Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are one of the most inexpensive materials for roofing purposes. Another reason behind their popularity is the ease with which they can be installed. Asphalt shingles are available in different colors and textures and so they can be used in various different styles.

Advantages of asphalt shingles:

Maintenance:

Asphalt shingles are very easy to maintain and this is a great advantage of using them for roofs. The repair work is very easy incase the shingles get damaged. Unlike other roofing materials which require a lot of regular periodic maintenance, asphalt shingles do not ask for so much maintenance.

Installation:

Among all the roofing materials, asphalt shingles are simplest to install. The installation process is very convenient and perfect options for all those who like to do it themselves. Other roof shingles require specialized tools and can be installed only by professionals.

Light in weight:

Asphalt shingles are not the lightest roof shingles, however the are very light in weight as compared to other materials in the same price range. This makes them compatible with various different structures.

Cost:

They cost a lot less than various other materials used for roofing. When one has, a limited budget then asphalt shingles becomes a great option.

Disadvantages of asphalt shingles:

Asphalt shingles can sometimes decay due to sudden changes in weather conditions. However, nowadays one can treat the shingles to avoid their decay.
Problems related to ventilation in attic can reduce the life span of asphalt shingles.
They do not provide thermal insulation and the solar heat is directly transferred into the room.
They can get damages by strong winds that have the capacity to lift them and tear them.
There is a slight disadvantage associated with their durability, as unlike other shingles, asphalt shingles last for about 20 years only. However, this disadvantage in overshadowed by the cost and easy maintenance.