I get what you’re saying, but honestly, I think some of it is just the new designs. My neighbor tried the newer shingles last year—looked thinner, but they’ve held up fine through two rough winters here in Michigan. Maybe they’re engineered differently now? I wouldn’t worry too much if you installed them right.
Thinner shingles, huh? I’ve seen a few of those lately on inspections—sometimes I wonder if they’re making them lighter to save on shipping or just to mess with us. But you’re right, I haven’t seen a ton of failures yet, even after some nasty windstorms. Maybe it’s all in the engineering, or maybe the manufacturers are just better at marketing these days... hard to say.
Here’s what I keep scratching my head about: are these new shingles actually rated for the same lifespan as the old chunky ones? I’ve read the warranty fine print and sometimes it feels like they’re promising 30 years, but then you get a “limited” this or “prorated” that. Anyone actually had to file a warranty claim on these newer bundles? Curious if the companies stand behind them or if it’s all smoke and mirrors.
Also, has anyone noticed if the installers are treating them differently? I’ve caught a couple crews using more nails than usual, maybe because the shingles are thinner or flex more. Not sure if that’s overkill or just being cautious.
And speaking of Michigan winters, how’s the granule loss looking after a couple freeze-thaw cycles? I’ve seen a few roofs where the gutters look like someone dumped a bag of gravel in them after the first spring melt. Is that just par for the course now, or are these new designs holding up better than they look?
I’m all for progress, but sometimes I miss the old heavyweight three-tabs. At least you knew what you were getting when you lugged those up a ladder...
I’m right there with you on missing the old heavy three-tabs. My last roof was the chunky kind and it felt like you were getting your money’s worth. With these new lightweight bundles, I honestly wonder if we’re just paying for air. I’ve noticed more granules in my gutters than I used to, but maybe that’s just how it goes now. Has anyone actually seen these “30-year” shingles make it past 15 or 20 years in real life, especially up north? Just seems like stuff doesn’t last like it used to.
Has anyone actually seen these “30-year” shingles make it past 15 or 20 years in real life, especially up north?
- Rarely see them hit 30 years up here (Minnesota). Most start curling or losing granules by year 18-20, sometimes sooner if the attic’s not vented right.
- Lighter bundles = less asphalt content. That’s probably why you’re seeing more granules in the gutters.
- Manufacturers changed formulas for weight/cost, but it does feel like durability took a hit.
- I do annual inspections and usually budget for replacement at 18-22 years max, even on “lifetime” shingles.
- If you want longer life, thicker architectural shingles hold up better than the new three-tabs, but they cost more upfront.