I’m right there with you on the architectural asphalt. When I bought my place a couple years ago, the inspector basically laughed at my old 3-tabs—said they were “hanging on by a prayer.” I went with architectural and haven’t had a single shingle blow off, even after that nasty windstorm last spring. Metal looked cool but the price tag was a gut punch, and honestly, I like being able to walk on the roof without feeling like I’m in a drumline. Ice and water shield along the eaves was non-negotiable for me too—my neighbor skipped it and ended up with stained ceilings after the first big thaw. Not worth the risk.
I’m leaning the same way on architectural asphalt, but I’ll admit I’m still a little skeptical about how long they’ll actually last. My place is only six years old and already had a couple of 3-tabs curl up after a rough winter, so I’m not exactly sold on “lifetime” warranties. Still, the architectural ones seem to be holding up way better for everyone I know.
Metal looked cool but the price tag was a gut punch, and honestly, I like being able to walk on the roof without feeling like I’m in a drumline.
That’s exactly it for me. I got a quote for standing seam metal and just about spit out my coffee. Plus, my neighbor has metal and you can hear every acorn, squirrel, or even a heavy rain—kind of drives me nuts. Maybe it’s just me, but I like being able to get up there and not feel like I’m announcing it to the whole block.
I agree on the ice and water shield too. I didn’t have it on my old place and after one bad ice dam, I had brown streaks running down my bedroom wall. Never again. It wasn’t even that expensive to add when I finally redid the roof.
If I had to redo mine tomorrow, I’d probably still go with architectural asphalt, but I might look into those synthetic underlayments instead of felt. I’ve heard mixed things—some say it breathes better, others say it can trap moisture. Anyone actually had issues with that? Also, has anyone tried those newer “cool roof” shingles that are supposed to reflect more sunlight? My attic turns into an oven every July and I’m curious if they actually make a difference or if it’s just marketing.
Anyway, for now, as long as my shingles stay put and my ceilings stay dry, I’ll call it a win... but I’m keeping an eye on those new materials just in case.
