Asphalt vs. Fiberglass Shingles: Which Roofing Option is Best for You?

Asphalt and fibreglass shingles are two types of shingles that homeowners often use as their prime roofing material. Asphalt shingles have been long-time favourites for many homeowners as they are easy to install and have lower initial costs. They can also be used for various architectural styles in multiple colours and designs. On the other hand, fibreglass shingles are a more modern type of shingles; these shingles are made using fibreglass as the base and are more durable and fire-resistant than the other. Fiberglass roofing has a higher initial cost but requires less maintenance than asphalt shingles roofing.

This guide will compare asphalt vs fibreglass shingles in detail. Additionally, we’ll look into how they are made, their durability, their cost, and how well they will perform in different climates.

Key Differences Between Asphalt vs Fiberglass Shingles

When choosing between fiberglass and asphalt shingles, you need to understand the difference between them, which will help make the selection process much quicker and easier. Here are some of the differences between fiberglass shingles and asphalt shingles.

1. Composition

Fiberglass shingles are made using fiberglass as their base. This mat is coated with asphalt shingles and has a layer of mineral granules on the top of the coating that acts as extra protection for the roofing.
Asphalt shingles are either made using an organic mat or fiberglass and later are soaked into asphalt coating. Just like fiberglass roofing, asphalt roofing has mineral granules on the top.

2. Weight

Fiberglass shingles are much lighter than asphalt shingles which makes them more user-friendly for installation purposes and could lead to lower labor costs.
Asphalt shingles roofing materials weigh less but still remain heavier than fiberglass shingles. Asphalt shingles that utilize organic mats become heavier which complicates their installation process and adds extra stress to the roof structure.

3. Durability & Life Expectancy

As fiberglass shingles roofing is more resilient to weather conditions like wind, sun, rain, and UV rays, they can last much longer than your asphalt roofing. Proper maintenance can extend the lifespan of fiberglass roofing beyond its average durability of 30 years.
Asphalt shingle roofs deteriorate faster than fiberglass shingles because they are more vulnerable to extreme heat and heavy rain which leads to quicker warping and cracking.

4. Cost Comparison

Fiberglass roofing shingles cost more to purchase than asphalt roofing because manufacturers use durable fiberglass materials to enhance their performance.
Asphalt roofing provides a more budget-friendly initial investment, making it a more cost-effective roofing choice than fiberglass roofing. However, asphalt roofing shingles also required frequent maintenance and roof repairs, which increased the overall cost of maintaining the roofing condition.

5. Environmental Impact

Fiberglass roofing shingles have a lower impact on the environment as they can last for a much longer period, which reduces the need to change your roof. Moreover, they generate a lesser carbon footprint.
High quality Asphalt shingles made using organic mats have thicker layers of asphalt, which indirectly contributes to waste and requires more resources to manufacture. This makes them produce more carbon footprints than fiberglass shingles do.

Pros and Cons of Asphalt vs Fiberglass Shingles

When choosing between fiberglass and asphalt shingles for your roof you need to consider the pros and cons of each type of roofing material. Here are some of the pros and cons of asphalt shingles and fiberglass shingles to give a better understanding.

Pros and Cons of Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are, without doubt, the most affordable roofing shingles material you could ever find. They come in a variety of colours and styles, which allow homeowners to match their roofs with the overall look of their houses. Furthermore, asphalt shingles are easier to install and can save you a chuck on labour costs. However, compared to fiberglass roofing shingles, asphalt shingles are not so durable and may not last long in harsh climate conditions, leading to their faster deterioration. In hot regions, asphalt shingles can become brittle and crack over time, thus increasing the cost for repairs or replacement sooner than you might have expected.

Pros and Cons of Fiberglass Shingles

Fiberglass shingles, on the other hand, are more durable and can easily resist damage often caused by heat, moisture, and even fire. Fiberglass shingles can also withstand harsh weather conditions; in addition to this, they are much lighter than asphalt shingles, which makes them easier to handle and install. But there are certain drawbacks to fiberglass shingles; these shingles have higher initial cost in comparison to asphalt shingles, which can be a disadvantage for homeowners on a tight budget.

Which is Best? Asphalt vs Fiberglass Shingles

Asphalt shingles are ideal for moderate climates where temperatures are not excessively high or low.
Fiberglass shingles are better suited for humid and cold climates due to their durability and resistance to heat and moisture.

Conclusion

Both types of roofing shingles present unique advantages and disadvantages. Roofing material provides superior durability compared to asphalt shingles roofing which makes it a top choice for long-term installations. They are also suitable for harsh climates. Asphalt roofing shingles stand out as a budget-conscious and adaptable choice.

This type of roofing solution suits homeowners who want to spend less money on roofing. Your final decision should take into account climate conditions together with financial limitations and individual preferences.

CertainTeed India stands out as a leading roofing shingles manufacturer for Kerala homeowners who desire high-quality roofing solutions because it provides premium-quality shingles which deliver durability as well as stylish performance. CertainTeed India provides superior products for your home protection regardless of whether you pick asphalt or fiberglass options.