What is an asphalt shingle?
This is the most common roofing material found on homes in the United States. It is a rectangular mat made of fiberglass that is coated with asphalt and covered in tiny stone granules. These shingles protect your roof from rain and they'll block harmful sun rays. The word asphalt comes from a Greek term meaning firm or stable. An American roofing contractor named Henry Reynolds invented the first asphalt shingles in 1903 by cutting rolled roofing into individual pieces.
Today, you'll usually see two main types on homes. Three tab shingles lay flat and look like three separate pieces. They're the cheapest option but they don't last quite as long. Architectural shingles are thicker and overlap to give your roof a textured, layered look. They weigh more and hold up better against strong winds. Both types do a great job keeping water out of your house, but most new homes use the thicker architectural style.
Why it matters to your home
Your roof is your first line of defense against the weather. Asphalt shingles are popular because they're affordable and easy for contractors to install. They bend easily, which helps them fit over the peaks and valleys of your roof. The tiny stone granules on top give the shingle its color. More importantly, those granules protect the asphalt from the sun. Without them, the asphalt would dry out and crack very quickly.
When you buy a house, the condition of these shingles is a big deal. A bad roof can cause leaks that ruin your ceiling and walls. It can also make it very hard to get Home Insurance. Insurance companies want to see a solid roof over your head. If your shingles are too old or damaged, they might force you to replace the roof before they give you a policy.
What to watch out for
You should check your roof at least once a year. You don't need to climb up there. Just grab a pair of binoculars and look from the ground. Look for signs that your shingles are failing.
- Missing granules: If you see bald spots on the shingle, the sun will soon damage the asphalt underneath. You might also find a lot of loose granules washing out of your gutters.
- Curling edges: When shingles get old, the edges curl up or cup in the middle. This means they're brittle and ready to break.
- Cracks and tears: Strong winds can rip shingles right off your roof or tear them in half.
- Algae and moss: Dark streaks are usually just algae, which isn't a huge threat. Moss is worse because it holds moisture against the roof and lifts the edges of the shingles.
How much it costs and how long it lasts
A standard asphalt shingle roof usually lasts 15 to 30 years. Three tab shingles are cheaper but only last 15 to 20 years. Architectural shingles cost a bit more but can last 25 to 30 years. High winds, heavy hail, and extreme heat will shorten this lifespan.
Replacing a roof is a big expense. For an average sized home, a new asphalt shingle roof costs between 7,000 and 12,000 dollars. Keep in mind that prices vary a lot based on where you live, the contractor you hire, and how steep your roof is. The price includes tearing off the old shingles, fixing any rotten wood underneath, and putting down new underlayment before nailing on the new shingles. If a storm damages your roof, your insurance might cover the cost. Otherwise, you'll need to pay out of pocket. If you want to learn about other parts of your home outside, check out our guide on Exterior: Siding, Garage & Decks or read more about Roofing basics to understand how the whole system works together.
