Buying a new roof is not sexy and it most certainly is not fun. I mean, it is something that you know you have to have but it is a big expense, and the idea of that construction work is not generally appealing at all. It’s something that you might want to put off, but it isn’t something that you really can.

If you think your roof is worn out, Call Metro Area Construction for help (612) 275-5530.

A roof is a kind of like a person in a lot of respects. As we get older, we just cannot do everything that we once could. We might still get the basic job done, but it becomes harder as we age. And, just like you, your roof deserves a good retirement.

The good news is that with the new style of asphalt roof, it is something that you would really only have to worry about once in your lifetime. After that, it’s your kid’s problem.

How Long Do Asphalt Shingles Last

How Long Do Asphalt Shingles Last?

 

Why asphalt roof tiles? It’s simple. They won’t last as long as clay or slate tiles, it’s true but do you really need them to? A clay/ slate tile can last at least a century but weigh a ton. They also cost a great deal more than asphalt roofing shingles do and don’t really lend themselves to a wider range of styles.

The other issue with slate or clay tiles is that they can crack fairly easily. That hundred-year lifespan is assuming that the tiles are properly maintained, and that can mean a lot of work.

The cost, architectural limitations, and maintenance issues are all reasons that a new roofing material was considered in the first place. And so we now have roof shingles.

What is an Asphalt Roof?

Our crews at Metro Area Construction offers asphalt roofing services in Minneapolis and the surrounding area. This is a typical type of roof in Minnesota that is made up of asphalt shingles.  It has the advantage of being lightweight and durable. The lifespan of an asphalt roof is around fifty years or so. Wooden shingles last around about the same length of time, but cost a lot more.

The real appeal though is the versatility. Because they are lightweight, they can be used in various different architectural styles. They are a blend of organic materials and/ or fiberglass and asphalt.

Each individual shingle is then coated with a layer of asphalt particles as well. It is this layer that makes the shingles waterproof.

The other big advantage with this roofing is that it comes in a variety of finishes and colors so you can choose the perfect style for your home.

Another advantage is that many of these are coated with a substance that helps them to deflect the rays of the sun. This makes them the more energy-efficient option and means that your home is insulated better.

Your energy bills will thus be reduced as well.

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There are Several Types of Asphalt Roofs

There are three basic types of shingles, and we will have a look at them here. Do you need a new roof? Check out our service areas here.

Fiberglass Shingles

These shingles are not the lowest cost option but offer good value. They use fiberglass as a base. A couple of layers of fiberglass are adhered together to create a mat. This is then covered in asphalt that has been mixed with different mineral fillers so that the end result is waterproof.

These are lightweight, durable, less expensive, resistant to UV radiation and fire and have a longer warranty on them.

Organic Shingles

As you might gather from the name, these are made with a base of organic materials. That means that they are made using rags, cardboard, wood chips and possibly even paper. This was all bonded together to create the mat, and the asphalt was layered over the top.

These are falling out of favor more and more now because they do not tend to last as long as the fiberglass ones, are heavier in weight and are the least expensive option.

The primary reason that they are not as popular anymore is that they fare very badly in areas that have high degrees of humidity, areas where there are large temperature fluctuations and areas where it is freezing in winter.

The average roof made with these would last around twenty years.

Three-Tab

The difference between these and the previous two shingle types is that they are made with cutouts to look as though there are different layers on the roof. This is used to add interest.

Architectural Shingles

These are not made using cutouts and come in various shapes. They have a higher asphalt content, and this makes them curve more than the three-tab option. They are also waterproof but should only be used on roofs with a steeper slope.

Cost to Replace an Asphalt Roof

This will depend on varying factors – how large your roof is, how much prep work needs to be done, where your property is, the type of roofing, and what the design of the roof is. You would need to get us in to give you a proper quote, but they cost around $3 000 to $8 000 on average.

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Asphalt vs. Metal

Metal roofing lasts an average of around fifty to sixty years, so its durability is similar to asphalt. It can range in price depending on the type of metal used. A copper roof, for example, could work out expensive whereas aluminum is more affordable.

Metal is a viable alternative to asphalt but comes with its own set of problems. For starters, the maintenance aspect is higher – you have to worry about nails coming loose, rust, holes, curling edges and seams.

Condensation can be a problem with metal, and it is not the most energy-efficient option. Here are a few more things to consider before installing metal roofs.

All things considered, asphalt offers modern homeowners a very workable alternative to clay or slate tiles. You can get a similar look at a fraction of the cost. The durability is a trade-off, but then you also save when it comes to energy-efficiency in your home.

It is an excellent option when reroofing your home. It’s affordable, you get the look that you want, and you get to reduce your carbon footprint at the same time. What’s not to like?