Asphalt Shingles Cost
Asphalt shingles cost including their installation is going to be one of the first things on your mind when you are in the process of considering a new asphalt shingle roof. Replacing your roof covering is one of the most important maintenance projects that we must undertake for our home. Sooner or later the time will come when your asphalt shingle roof will need replacing. Over the years the shingles will deteriorate and even lose their waterproofing properties. The long term performance of your roof can be influenced by several factors including weathering, condensation, moss and algae.
The heat of the sun and it’s ultraviolet rays can cause your asphalt shingles to degrade over the years. The level of deterioration will be greater on the sides of your roof that face either south or west due to the fact that they will receive the brunt of the suns rays through the summer months. High winds can also cause damage. The wind can lift the shingles and force water underneath them. In severe winds they can even be torn off. If the area that you live suffers from strong winds during the year then you may consider installing architectural shingles. They are heavier as they have a thicker coating of asphalt.
They will be less likely to be torn off in windy conditions due to their extra durability and weight. Moss and algae can also decrease the longevity of your asphalt shingles. Moss and algae can work their way underneath the shingles letting in moisture. In general though your asphalt shingle roof will not last forever no matter how well you maintain it. Over the years it will gradually deteriorate, grow old and become worn out. The edges will tend to curl and start to split. They will start to lose their effectiveness at keeping your home protected from the elements.
Old, worn shingles can be easily torn or blown off the roof by gusts of wind. If your asphalt shingles fail to protect your roof then the structure of you roof can be vulnerable to rot and the interior of you home could suffer from water damage. If old and worn shingles are not replaced then your problems will only get worse over time. Prevention is cheaper than cure.
Asphalt shingle roofs can cost anything from $50-$200 per square. (A square of shingles is equal to 100 square feet of roof area) If you have old shingles on your roof they should be removed before the new asphalt shingles are installed. This will increase your costs further by approximately $20-$50 per square. These are rough estimates I know but the price will be reflected by the quality of asphalt shingles that you are having installed and the cost of a professional roofing contractor in your area.
Be sure to get several quotes so that you can compare prices. It’s also worth asking people you trust such as your friends and family if they can recommend a roofing contractor that they have previously used. If you have the expertise and confidence to work on your roof then you could consider installing the asphalt shingles yourself as the process is relatively simple and would cut down you asphalt shingles cost significantly.