Funny how often folks underestimate asphalt. I’ve seen plenty of composite and even some so-called “lifetime” shingles curl up or shed granules after a few rough winters, but the old-school asphalt on my own place has shrugged off a couple nasty windstorms. Sure, it’s not as flashy as metal, but I’ll take something that’s easy to patch and doesn’t break the bank. Moss is a pain where I am too—those zinc strips are a lifesaver. Only thing I wish was better is the look... but at this point, function beats form for me.
I hear you on the asphalt. It’s not glamorous, but it’s kind of the workhorse, right? I’ve inspected a bunch of roofs where the “fancy” composites looked great for a few years, then started curling or losing granules—especially in spots that get hammered by sun and wind. Meanwhile, the old asphalt shingles next door just keep chugging along.
Ever notice how some of those lifetime warranties on composites have a ton of fine print? I’ve seen homeowners get burned thinking they’re covered, only to find out it’s “prorated” or doesn’t include labor. Not saying asphalt is perfect—around here, the moss is relentless, and I’ve seen plenty of folks fight leaks around flashing. Those zinc strips help, but I always wonder if there’s a better long-term fix for moss in wet climates.
Curious—has anyone tried those newer “architectural” asphalt shingles? They look a bit nicer than the old three-tabs, but I haven’t seen enough of them in rough weather to know if they hold up any better.
- Those architectural shingles are definitely a step up from the old three-tabs, at least looks-wise. I’ve put them on a few houses and they seem to handle wind better—haven’t seen as many blow-offs.
- They’re thicker, so you get a bit more life out of them (in theory). Still, if you’ve got moss issues, nothing’s magic. I’ve seen folks try copper strips too, but moss always seems to find a way back after a few wet seasons.
- Warranties... yeah, I always tell people to read the fine print. “Lifetime” doesn’t mean what you think it means when you’re standing in a puddle in your attic.
- Around here (PNW), asphalt’s still the workhorse. Not perfect, but at least you know what you’re getting. Composites look sharp but I’m not sold on their long-term toughness yet.
Warranties... yeah, I always tell people to read the fine print. “Lifetime” doesn’t mean what you think it means when you’re standing in a puddle in your attic.
Ain’t that the truth. The last time I tried to chase down a shingle warranty, I felt like I was applying for a top-secret government job. By the time they finish asking for photos, receipts, and my firstborn, the roof’s already been patched twice.
I’m in the “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it (unless it’s leaking)” camp, so I’ve stuck with asphalt shingles. Not because I’m in love with them—let’s be real, they’re not exactly sexy—but because my wallet likes to keep things simple. Composites look fancy, sure, but around here (western Oregon), the moss is gonna win no matter what you put up there. I tried the copper strips too. The moss just laughed and kept growing.
I get tempted by those composite samples at the hardware store. They’re all “lifetime” this and “hail-proof” that, but then I see the price tag and remember my last vacation. Plus, if I ever move, am I really gonna see that money back? Doubtful.
And as for wind—architectural asphalt has held up better than expected. We had a gnarly storm last winter and my neighbor’s fancy composite lost a few pieces before mine did. He was not thrilled.
Honestly, unless you’re planning to stay put for 30+ years or just want to show off to the neighbors, asphalt still feels like the best bang for your buck. Just gotta budget for a little moss-scrubbing every spring... or learn to love green roofs (the unintentional kind).
Composites look fancy, sure, but around here (western Oregon), the moss is gonna win no matter what you put up there. I tried the copper strips too. The moss just laughed and kept growing.
Man, that moss is relentless out here. I’ve seen folks drop serious cash on “moss-proof” options and still end up pressure washing every spring. Honestly, I get why you stick with asphalt—cost per year just makes sense unless you’re in it for the long haul or want a certain look. Composite’s nice, but if it’s not holding up better in storms or against moss, kinda hard to justify the price tag. I do wonder if anyone’s had luck with those newer algae-resistant shingles though...
