Asphalt Shingle Roofing

✅ Overview

Asphalt shingles offer affordable, durable roofing for most Texas homes. Over 80% of American homes have asphalt shingle roofs. They offer the best combination of affordability, performance, and variety for most residential applications.

✅ Cost Range

$3.50–$6.50 per sq ft installed.

For typical 2,000 sq ft roof (20 squares):

• 3-Tab: $5,000-7,000 total
• Architectural: $7,000-10,000 total
• Luxury: $11,000-15,000 total

Costs vary by location, roof complexity, tear-off requirements, and chosen brand.

✅ Lifespan in Texas Climate

20–30 years depending on pitch, ventilation, and storm exposure.

• 3-Tab: 15-20 years actual, 20-30 year warranty
• Architectural: 25-30 years actual, 30-50 year warranty
• Luxury: 30-50 years actual, 50-year to lifetime warranty

Note: Warranty periods often exceed actual lifespan. Review warranty terms carefully—many are prorated.

Types of Asphalt Shingles

3-Tab Shingles

• Cost: $90-$150 per square installed
• Lifespan: 15-20 years
• Weight: ~200-250 lbs per square
• Appearance: Flat, uniform look with visible cutouts
• Best For: Budget-conscious projects, rental properties, simple roof designs

Architectural/Dimensional Shingles (Recommended)

• Cost: $150-$250 per square installed
• Lifespan: 25-30 years
• Weight: ~300-400 lbs per square
• Appearance: Dimensional, textured look resembling slate or wood shake
• Best For: Most homeowners seeking best value and curb appeal

Luxury/Designer Shingles

• Cost: $300-$500 per square installed
• Lifespan: 30-50 years
• Weight: ~400-500 lbs per square
• Appearance: Premium dimensional profiles, enhanced textures
• Best For: Upscale homes, maximum curb appeal, longest warranty coverage

✅ Pros / Cons

✅ Material Comparison Table

Color Options

Asphalt shingles come in dozens of colors. Popular choices include:

• Neutral Tones: Black, charcoal, weathered wood, driftwood (80% of installations)
• Browns: Rustic cedar, autumn brown, mission brown
• Grays: Pewter gray, slate gray, oyster gray
• Specialty: Hunter green, slate blue, terra cotta

Darker colors absorb more heat (higher cooling costs) but hide dirt better. Lighter colors reflect heat (lower cooling costs) but show algae stains more.

Lifespan & Warranty

• 3-Tab: 15-20 years actual, 20-30 year warranty
• Architectural: 25-30 years actual, 30-50 year warranty
• Luxury: 30-50 years actual, 50-year to lifetime warranty

Note: Warranty periods often exceed actual lifespan. Review warranty terms carefully—many are prorated.

Popular Brands

• GAF: Industry leader, Timberline HDZ (architectural), excellent warranties
• Owens Corning: Duration series (architectural), SureNail technology
• CertainTeed: Landmark series (architectural), comprehensive warranties
• IKO: Cambridge (architectural), competitive pricing
• Atlas: Pinnacle Pristine (architectural), good mid-tier option

Installation Considerations

• Timeframe: 1-3 days for most residential roofs
• Noise: Hammering can be loud; plan accordingly if working from home
• Mess: Tear-off creates debris; contractors should protect landscaping
• Weather: Cannot install in rain or freezing temperatures
• Ventilation: Critical for shingle longevity—ensure adequate attic ventilation

Maintenance Requirements

• Annual inspections (especially after storms)
• Keep gutters clean to prevent water backup
• Trim overhanging branches
• Address moss/algae growth promptly
• Replace missing or damaged shingles immediately

See our roof maintenance page for detailed care guidance.

Signs Your Asphalt Shingles Need Replacement

• Curling or cupping shingles
• Missing granules (bald spots)
• Cracked or broken shingles
• Daylight visible through roof boards
• Roof age 20+ years
• Multiple areas needing repair
• Increased energy bills
• Granules collecting in gutters

✅ FAQs

What is the cost of asphalt shingles?

Short answer: $3.50–$6.50 per sq ft installed, or $5,000–$15,000 for typical 2,000 sq ft roof.

Costs vary by shingle type (3-tab vs architectural), location, roof complexity, and brand. Architectural shingles cost more but last longer.

How long do asphalt shingles last?

Short answer: 20–30 years in Texas climate, depending on type and maintenance.

3-tab shingles last 15–20 years, architectural shingles last 25–30 years, and luxury shingles can last 30–50 years. Proper ventilation and maintenance extend lifespan.

Can I install new shingles over old ones?

Short answer: Building codes typically allow one layer, but tear-off is recommended.

We recommend tear-off to inspect decking, ensure flat surface, and maximize new roof lifespan. Re-roofing adds weight and may void warranties.

What roof pitch do asphalt shingles require?

Short answer: Minimum 2:12 pitch (2 inches rise per 12 inches run).

Lower slopes need special underlayment or different roofing materials. Most residential roofs meet this requirement.

Do darker shingles wear out faster?

Short answer: Marginally in very hot climates, but quality and ventilation matter more.

Dark shingles absorb more heat, which can marginally accelerate aging in very hot climates. However, quality and ventilation matter more than color for longevity.

Are architectural shingles worth the extra cost?

Short answer: Yes, for most homeowners. The $2,000–3,000 premium buys 10+ extra years of life.

Architectural shingles offer better wind resistance, enhanced curb appeal, and improved warranties. ROI is excellent for most homeowners.

How do I choose a color?

Short answer: Consider home color, neighborhood norms, climate, and resale appeal.

Most buyers prefer neutral colors. Lighter colors reflect heat (lower cooling costs) but show algae stains more. Many manufacturers offer visualizer tools to preview colors on your home.

What's the difference between 3-tab and architectural shingles?

Short answer: Architectural shingles are thicker, last longer (25–30 vs 15–20 years), and have better wind resistance.

3-tab shingles are flat and single-layer. Architectural shingles are multi-dimensional, offer better curb appeal, and typically cost $1–2 more per square foot.