Asphalt roof systems are the cheapest to install and the most popular choice in Plano. However, with damaging hail in 2016, more homeowners are re-roofing with metal. Title’s team installs asphalt shingles from GAF and Owen’s Corning, which have high satisfaction and extensive warranties.
Asphalt is still a good option for homeowners on a budget. Not only is the material cheap, but every roofer can install asphalt. There is a greater choice of contractors and manufacturers. In recent years, this traditional roofing material is coming in more colors and styles.
Asphalt Roof Material
The most popular roofing material in North Texas is a composite of asphalt and fiberglass. For similar reasons fiberglass is in home insulation, it’s in shingles: inexpensive, water and fire resistant, lightweight and tear-resistant.
Organic shingles, which contain more asphalt, are less common in Dallas. There is little difference in appearance between organic and composite shingles. However, fiberglass shingles are better at reflecting heat, eco-friendly and more durable.
Asphalt Shingle Design
Most homeowners think of asphalt shingles as black, grey or a variation in between. But, white shingles are actually the best choice for a Texas summer, if you can live with the color.
Shingles can also have unique texture. The cheapest and most common option, are 3-tab asphalt shingles. When installed on a roof, it creates a repetitive flat pattern.
Dimensional shingles pop and make a roof appear 3D. They imitate cedar shingles, but are much cheaper than a wood roof.
Designer shingles or architectural shingles are even more expensive, but come in a variety of shapes, patterns and colors. Designer asphalt shingles can imitate tile, slate and other roofing systems.
All three types of asphalt shingles are installed by Title. The only difference is material cost as our time to complete a designer shingle roof is similar to 3-tab. Some homeowner’s associations may require dimensional or designer shingles, so let us know any restrictions.
Asphalt Roof Durability
The hot Texas sun can warp asphalt shingles over time. Title recommends Energy Star Rated fiberglass shingles for extra solar protection and for cutting a monthly electric bill. Two products we install that meet this criteria:
- Owens Corning ’s Duration Premium Cool Shingles
- GAF’s Timberline Cool Series Energy-Saving Shingles
In addition to heat, asphalt shingles are more likely to be affected by hail and wind storms than other roofing systems. Choosing a premium shingle, such as designer or dimensional, delivers thicker shingles which are more weather resistant.
Many of the shingles sold by Title are wind resistant up to 110-130 mph and Class A fire rated. Asphalt shingles can be impact-resistant, Class 4 hail resistant are available at a higher cost.
The average lifespan of an asphalt roof is 15 years. Let’s just say, you get what you pay for… Going to a higher quality laminated shingle can increase a roof lifespan to 30 - 50 years.
Asphalt Roof Maintenance
Your roof’s lifespan can be greatly improved by proper maintenance. Over time, neglected asphalt roofs can have a black streaky appearance and grow fungus and mold. Without an inspection after major storms or regular cleaning, your roof could have a water leak. Don’t find out the hard way. Most manufacturer warranties require regular roof maintenance, or the claim is void.
