Return To Blog

5 Myths About Asphalt Shingles Debunked By Your Denver Roofing Company


February 20, 2019

When it comes to choosing the right roofing materials for a full roof replacement, you have quite a few options. Everything from metal to tile to slate could work for your house. But if you’re like most homeowners, you don’t have time to think about expensive roofing alternatives or repairs. You want to keep things simple and nothing does this like asphalt shingles. Surprisingly, there are quite a few myths circulating online about this durable roofing material. And your experienced Denver roofers want to help. Here are some of the most common myths about asphalt shingles, debunked.

Asphalt Shingles Aren’t Durable
Are asphalt shingles the MOST durable roofing material? No. But they do last up to 20 years with proper care and maintenance. And they’re naturally impact resistant, making them the perfect choice for Denver-area homeowners looking to protect their house from hailstorms. Keep in mind that there are different grades of shingles and the more durable they are, the more they’ll cost.

They’re Not Eco-Friendly
Unfortunately, a lot of roofing materials end up in the landfill and since asphalt shingles are the most popular option, they’re the most common type found in the garbage heap. But that doesn’t mean they’re inherently bad for the environment. In fact, many asphalt shingles are made from recycled and repurposed materials. Once old shingles are removed from your house, they can be recycled and repurposed. But you have to make sure your roofer is willing to recycle the old shingles in the first place. 

You Can Repair Them Yourself
Just because you see asphalt shingles at every home improvement store doesn’t mean they’re easy to install. In fact, working on your roof and replacing shingles on your own can void your roofing warranty. Anytime you think your roof needs repairs or are concerned about the condition of the shingles, you need to schedule an appointment with a professional roofer. Trying to handle repairs yourself puts your roof at risk for increased damage and more costly repairs in the future. 

They’re Ugly
Just because asphalt shingles are among the most affordable options on the market doesn’t mean they’ll look cheap once installed on your roof. In fact, many shingles mimic the look of natural materials like slate and tile. You just have to find the right options for your aesthetic tastes. When you schedule a roof inspection, we’ll go over the best options for your roof and your budget.

Shingles Lose Their Granules Immediately
If you’ve ever had asphalt shingles installed in the past, you know that losing granules is a sure-fire sign of failing shingles. But what most people forget is that shingles always have excess granules when they’re first installed. These extra granules will shed immediately, but it doesn’t mean you need to call your roofer. It’s normal and is just a sign that the shingles are settling into place. You only need to call your roofer if you notice bare spots on the shingles or if the granule loss continues for months on end.

Ultimately, asphalt shingles are a great choice for most homeowners. They’re affordable, durable, and look just as eye-catching as other more expensive roofing materials. If you’re ready to replace your roof, contact us to schedule a free estimate