Shingle roofs can be a good investment, but your budget and expectations must be considered.
While asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material in the United States, they are not the most popular selection in Arizona.
Typically, Grand Canyon State homeowners have favored tile roofs due to the hot and sometimes unpredictable climate. So this may leave you wondering whether shingle roofs are a good idea for Phoenix and Mesa homes.
Shingle roofs can be affordable, and some options provide excellent protection against the elements. In this article, we will take a detailed look at the types of shingle roofs available and evaluate their pros and cons to help you choose the best material for your new roof.
What Are Shingle Roofs?
Technically, shingles refer to any rectangular-shaped roofing material laid in an overlapping pattern. However, when we talk about shingle roofs, we are usually referring to asphalt shingles. Typically, they are the most affordable roofing material, costing about $1 to $2 per square foot.
There are 3 common types of asphalt or composite roofing shingles:
- 3-tab shingles: Also called traditional shingles, they are typically 12” in width and have notches to give the appearance of three distinct shingles. They are fast to install and are the most affordable type of shingle roofing.
- Architectural shingles: Also known as laminate shingles, these have two layers made from asphalt and fiberglass. They are more weather-resistant than traditional shingles. Alternating single- and double-layer tabs can be used to create a look known as “dragon’s teeth” that adds an extra dimension to the roof.
- Designer shingles: Sometimes called premium shingles, designer shingles are thick like laminate shingles. However, they are designed to look like other premium roofing materials, such as wood shakes or slate.
Advantages of Shingle Roofs
Asphalt shingle roofs have many benefits for Arizona homeowners beyond being kind to the wallet.
Versatility
Shingles can be used on most types of roofs, however complicated the design. They suit a wide range of house styles, and the wide variety of colors available allows you to stamp your mark on your home. If you upgrade to architectural or designer shingles, you will benefit from even more designs and textures that can boost your home’s curb appeal.
Long warranties
Shingle roofs are built to last, and many manufacturers now offer warranties of 25 years or longer. Some architectural shingle and designer shingle manufacturers even offer limited lifetime warranties.
Fire resistance
High-quality shingles can provide excellent fire resistance. Choose an option with a Class A fire rating, the highest level available.
Impact resistance
Phoenix and the surrounding area are no strangers to severe storms and hailstorms, with hailstones of up to 2 inches in diameter reported in 2022.
Although shingle roofs did not have the best reputation for impact resistance in the past, modern shingles are much more robust. Some offer Class 4 impact resistance, which can withstand hailstones of more than 2 inches in diameter.
Wind resistance
Strong winds during storms can leave roofs battered, lifting shingles and allowing water to penetrate the underlayment and even the fabric of your roof.
Although 3-tab shingles offer limited wind resistance of up to 60 miles per hour, architectural and designer shingles provide much greater protection. Depending on the shingles you choose, they may be able to withstand winds of up to 130 miles per hour.
Disadvantages of Shingle Roofs
Shingle roofs have improved immensely and may be the ideal choice for your Arizona home. However, it is important to consider a few drawbacks before making your final decision.
Limited lifespan
Although some shingle manufacturers now provide extensive warranties, Arizona’s scorching heat will take its toll on shingle roofs. Severe storms and hail can also shorten the life of asphalt roofs if they are not promptly repaired.
The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) predicts an average lifespan of 20 years for 3-tab shingles and 30 years for architectural shingles. By contrast, clay and concrete tile roofs can last 100 years or longer with proper ventilation and maintenance.
Energy efficiency
A well-ventilated shingle roof and good insulation can help to keep energy costs down. However, asphalt shingles are less energy efficient than other roofing materials, such as tile.
Some reasons for this include:
- Shingles typically come in dark colors, which absorb heat
- Asphalt shingles reflect very little heat away from the home
- Shingles transfer heat into the attic space
As a result, you may have to use more energy to cool your home during the Arizona summer. This extra, ongoing cost must be considered when evaluating the initial cost of your new roof.
Frequent maintenance
Although modern asphalt shingle roofs are more wind and storm-resistant than older versions, they still require regular inspections and prompt repairs. It is recommended to schedule an inspection at least once a year and after significant weather events to check for damage. Small tears and loose shingles can allow water to enter your home, causing severe damage.
Sun exposure can eventually cause asphalt shingles to degrade. You may notice them curling, cracking, or becoming discolored. You may also find they begin to crumble, causing pieces to appear on the ground around your home.
When making your decision, it is important to talk to a roofing contractor who understands your home, budget, and the local climate. He or she can explain the pros and cons of specific shingles and whether they are right for your needs.
Shingles, Tile, or Something Else? Let Overson Roofing Help You Make the Right Choice
At Overson Roofing, we care about our customers. We understand that replacing your roof is a huge expense and a decision you need to get right. We bring over 3 decades of experience to every project and can talk you through the pros and cons of different options, including shingle, tile, and spray foam roofing.
We aim to provide every customer with a smooth, enjoyable experience from the first phone call to the end of your project. However, don’t take our word for it. Our reviews show how our customers feel about our professionalism, dependability, and affordable prices.
You have nothing to lose by getting a free estimate from Overson Roofing. Call us at 480-354-2564 to schedule a visit or complete our contact form today, and we will respond within 24 hours.
Photo by Michaela Murphy on Unsplash