8 Reasons You Should Avoid Asphalt Roofing

Asphalt shingles are the most commonly used roofing material in North America, often touted for their affordability and ease of installation. 

While these features make them appealing at first glance, they come with a range of hidden drawbacks that many homeowners only discover after it's too late. Whether you're considering a roof replacement or building a new home, it's crucial to understand the long-term implications of using asphalt roofing.

Here are the key reasons why you might want to avoid asphalt shingles altogether.

Asphalt Has the Shortest Lifespan Among Major Roofing Materials

One of the biggest disadvantages of asphalt roofing is its relatively short lifespan. While high-end materials like metal, tile, synthetic slate, or real slate can last anywhere from 40 to over 100 years, asphalt shingles typically top out at 20 to 30 years under ideal conditions. Basic 3-tab shingles might last only 15 to 20 years, and even architectural shingles — considered the mid-range option — rarely exceed 30 years without showing signs of wear.

This limited durability means you’ll likely face a complete roof replacement sooner than with other materials, increasing your total cost of ownership over time. If you plan on staying in your home for decades, asphalt roofing will almost certainly need to be replaced during your tenure.

Weather Vulnerability Is a Serious Concern

Asphalt shingles do not perform well under extreme or volatile weather conditions. They are particularly susceptible to damage from high winds, hail, ice dams, and rapid temperature fluctuations. In hot climates, UV rays quickly degrade the shingle surface, causing them to become brittle and prone to cracking. In colder regions, the freeze-thaw cycle can lead to curling or “blistering,” where moisture trapped inside the shingle expands and breaks through the surface.

In storm-prone areas, asphalt shingles frequently suffer from uplift and tear-off, which can leave your home exposed to leaks and further structural damage. Many insurance providers even charge higher premiums or deductibles for homes with asphalt roofing because of its increased vulnerability.

Asphalt Roofs Require Ongoing Maintenance

Unlike more resilient materials like metal or synthetic options, asphalt roofs demand regular maintenance to stay functional. Debris such as leaves, branches, and dirt tend to collect in valleys and gutters, retaining moisture and accelerating the breakdown of the shingles. Without routine cleaning and inspections, issues like mold, algae, granule loss, and early degradation can take hold quickly.

Annual maintenance is necessary to identify and repair early signs of damage like cracked shingles, exposed nail heads, or failing flashing. Neglecting these small repairs can lead to leaks, interior water damage, and rot in the roof deck or attic insulation. While all roofs benefit from periodic attention, asphalt roofing systems simply require it more often.

Poor Sustainability and Environmental Impact

If sustainability is important to you, asphalt shingles present a significant drawback. Asphalt is a petroleum-based product, making it energy-intensive to produce and contributing to fossil fuel dependency. Additionally, most asphalt shingles are not recyclable. In fact, asphalt roofing waste accounts for millions of tons of landfill volume annually in the U.S. alone.

While some manufacturers and municipalities have made strides in shingle recycling, the infrastructure is still limited, and most discarded asphalt shingles still end up as waste. Compared to metal roofing (which is typically 100% recyclable and often made from recycled content), asphalt scores low on the eco-friendliness scale.

Aesthetic Limitations Compared to Other Materials

Although asphalt shingles come in a range of colors and styles, they generally offer lower curb appeal compared to materials like slate, metal, or tile. Architectural and luxury shingles have improved appearances, but even the highest-grade asphalt roofing tends to lack the premium finish and textural depth of higher-end alternatives.

Moreover, asphalt fades over time due to UV exposure, losing its visual charm well before the end of its functional life. If you’re investing in your home’s exterior appearance — for resale value or personal satisfaction — asphalt may not provide the elevated look you're going for.

Installation Errors Are More Common Than You’d Expect

Because asphalt roofing is relatively easy to install, it's a common target for underqualified or low-cost contractors. Unfortunately, this also leads to a high rate of improper installations. Whether it's misaligned shingles, poor ventilation, or skipped steps during underlayment prep, these mistakes can severely reduce the lifespan and performance of the roof.

Even more concerning is that many asphalt shingle warranties are voided by improper installation or poor attic ventilation — leaving the homeowner on the hook for costly repairs. While professional installation is crucial for any roof type, asphalt systems leave less margin for error, making proper craftsmanship essential but often overlooked.

Warranty Coverage Is Often Misleading

Many homeowners are drawn in by the idea of a “30-year” or “50-year” asphalt shingle warranty, but few realize that these warranties are often prorated and limited. This means the amount covered decreases over time, and in many cases, the warranty only applies to the shingles themselves — not labor, underlayment, or other associated components.

Enhanced warranties that offer better coverage usually require a full-system installation from a single manufacturer and certified contractor. If even one non-brand component is used, the warranty may become void. These caveats make asphalt warranties less reliable than they appear on the surface.

Granule Loss and Surface Degradation Are Inevitable

One of the most visible signs of asphalt shingle aging is granule loss. Granules are the top protective layer that gives the shingles their color and helps deflect UV rays. Over time, weather and debris cause these granules to dislodge and accumulate in your gutters. Once the granules are gone, the asphalt beneath is directly exposed to sunlight and weather, leading to rapid deterioration.

Granule loss is not just cosmetic — it signals that your roof is losing its protective layer, and once that begins, failure can follow quickly. Homeowners considering durability may find metal roof coatings offer better long-term protection from UV and weather exposure. — it signals that your roof is losing its protective layer, and once that begins, failure can follow quickly.

FAQs 

Is asphalt roofing ever a good option? 

Yes, for short-term affordability and ease of installation, asphalt can be a valid choice. It's suitable for homeowners who plan to sell in the near future or are on a tight budget.

How often should asphalt shingles be inspected? 

At least once a year, and after any major weather events. Early detection of issues like curling, blistering, or granule loss can extend roof life.

Can asphalt shingles be recycled? 

Yes, but in practice, recycling programs for asphalt shingles are limited and not widely available.

Does asphalt roofing lower home value? 

Not necessarily, but it typically adds less curb appeal than more premium materials, which can affect buyer perception during resale.

Are asphalt shingles good for hot climates? 

Not really. Asphalt absorbs heat and deteriorates faster under intense UV exposure, making it a weaker option for hot regions.