I'm looking into redoing my roof soon, and asphalt shingles seem to be everywhere. They're affordable, sure, but I've heard mixed things about durability and lifespan. Anyone here have experience with them—good or bad?
I've dealt with asphalt shingles quite a bit, especially after storms roll through. They're definitely popular for a reason—affordable, easy to install, and pretty decent at handling typical weather. But durability-wise, it really depends on the quality you pick and your local climate. Have you checked out the higher-end architectural shingles? They cost a bit more but usually hold up better against wind and hail.
One thing I've noticed is that lifespan claims can be a little optimistic. Manufacturers might say 25-30 years, but realistically, you're probably looking at closer to 15-20 before you start seeing noticeable wear or needing repairs. Also, proper installation makes a huge difference—seen plenty of roofs fail prematurely just because someone cut corners on the underlayment or flashing.
If you're in an area prone to heavy storms or hail, you might wanna consider impact-resistant shingles. They're pricier upfront but could save you headaches (and insurance claims) down the road. Just something to think about...
Totally agree on the lifespan thing—my "30-year" shingles started looking rough around year 17. Still, if you're tight on cash, asphalt shingles are solid enough. Just don't skimp on good underlayment...trust me, learned that the hard way after a nasty storm.
