When contemplating the best roofing material for your home in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area, asphalt shingles are by far the most popular roofing material due to their wide array of benefits. Whether its a new home construction, or an insurance re-roof, asphalt shingles are the most common choice for roofing material. Here's an in-depth look at why that’s the case.

Cost-Effectiveness

Affordability: Asphalt shingles are significantly more budget-friendly than almost all other roofing alternatives. They provide an economical solution that doesn't sacrifice quality or performance, making them accessible to a broader audience. This is the MAIN reason most homes have asphalt roofing.
Long-term Savings: Beyond the initial purchase, the cost-effectiveness continues through reduced maintenance and repair needs. The overall life cycle cost of asphalt roofs is often lower due to their resilience and the ease with which they can be maintained or repaired.

Durability and Longevity

Weather Resistance: Advances in technology have led to asphalt shingles that are highly resistant to various weather conditions. From scorching sun to freezing snow, these shingles are engineered to protect your home year-round.
Longevity: With appropriate care, asphalt roofs can last 20 to 30 years, with some premium options like architectural shingles extending this period. This durability offers substantial value over time, especially when considering the cost per year of roof service.

Ease of Installation

Installation Speed: The lightweight nature of asphalt shingles means they can be installed more quickly than heavier materials. This efficiency can reduce installation costs and minimize the inconvenience of having a construction crew on your property.
Repair and Replacement: Minor damages to asphalt roofs are easily addressed. Individual shingles can be replaced or repaired without the need for extensive work, which is particularly beneficial for localized damage from storms or debris.

Versatility in Design

Aesthetic Options: Asphalt shingles come in an array of colors, styles, and textures, mimicking higher-end materials like wood shake, slate, or tile. This versatility allows homeowners to achieve the desired look for their homes without the cost associated with those materials.
Adaptability: They can be used on a wide range of architectural styles, from modern to traditional, enhancing curb appeal while fitting into various neighborhood aesthetics.

Environmental Impact

Recyclability: Many asphalt shingles are recyclable, reducing landfill waste. Moreover, some manufacturers produce shingles with recycled content, further lowering the environmental footprint.
Energy Efficiency: Newer asphalt shingle designs include reflective granules that can help reduce heat absorption, potentially lowering cooling costs in warmer climates. In Minnestota, we have not noticed any energy savings or environmental impact with different colored shingles (light vs dark).

Fire Resistance

Safety: Most asphalt shingles are Class A fire-rated, offering superior protection against fire compared to wood or other combustible materials. This feature is crucial in areas prone to wildfires or where building codes require high fire resistance.

Noise Reduction

Quiet Living: Asphalt roofs absorb sound better than metal roofs, offering a quieter indoor environment during rain or hail, which can be a significant quality-of-life enhancement. For example, metal roofing is relatively much louder in rain and sleet and sound carries inside of your home. In

The choice of asphalt roofing aligns with both practical and aesthetic homeowner needs. Its combination of affordability, resilience, ease of maintenance, and style options makes it a compelling choice for anyone looking to protect and beautify their home. Whether you're building new or replacing an old roof, asphalt shingles offer a balanced solution that addresses both immediate and long-term housing concerns.

Asphalt Shingles: The Most Popular Roofing Material