Felt Roofing vs. Asphalt Shingles: Deciding Between Two Roofing Giants

Introduction: When it comes to roofing materials, homeowners are often faced with many options, each with its pros and cons. Two popular choices for residential roofing are felt roofing and asphalt shingles. Both materials offer durability, affordability, and versatility but differ in composition, installation methods, and aesthetic appeal. In this blog post, we’ll compare felt roofing and asphalt shingles, exploring the advantages and disadvantages of each to help homeowners make an informed decision for their roofing needs. At Rochester Roofing Services, we understand the importance of choosing the right roofing material for your home, and we’re here to provide expert guidance every step of the way.

Felt Roofing: The Time-Tested Classic

Bituminous roofing has been a staple in the roofing industry for decades. Made from layers of organic or fibreglass felt saturated with asphalt or bitumen, felt roofing offers excellent waterproofing and weather resistance. Here are some key advantages of felt roofing:

• Durability: Felt roofing is known for its durability and longevity, requiring proper installation and maintenance. It can withstand harsh weather conditions, including heavy rain, snow, and wind.
• Versatility: Felt roofing is suitable for many roof types and applications, including flat roofs, low-slope roofs, and pitched roofs. It can be installed quickly and easily, making it a popular choice for residential and commercial projects.
• Affordability: Felt roofing is generally more affordable than asphalt shingles, making it an attractive option for homeowners on a budget.

However, felt roofing also has some drawbacks, including:

• Limited Aesthetic Options: Felt roofing is available in limited colours and styles, which may not offer the same aesthetic appeal as asphalt shingles.
• Maintenance Requirements: Felt roofing requires regular maintenance to ensure longevity, including inspections, repairs, and reapplications of protective coatings.

Asphalt Shingles: The Modern Favorite

Asphalt shingles have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their affordability, versatility, and wide range of design options. Made from fibreglass or organic materials coated with asphalt and granules, asphalt shingles offer several advantages:

• Aesthetic Appeal: Asphalt shingles come in various colours, textures, and styles, allowing homeowners to achieve the desired look for their homes. They can mimic the appearance of more expensive roofing materials, such as slate or wood, at a fraction of the cost.
• Easy Installation: Asphalt shingles are lightweight and easy to install, reducing labour costs and installation time. They can be installed on various roof types and slopes, making them suitable for most residential applications.
• Low Maintenance: Asphalt shingles require minimal maintenance compared to felt roofing. Occasional inspections and repairs are typically needed to keep asphalt shingles in good condition.

However, asphalt shingles also have some drawbacks, including:

• Lifespan: Asphalt shingles have a shorter lifespan than felt roofing, typically 20-30 years, depending on the quality of the materials and installation.
• Vulnerability to Weathering: Asphalt shingles may be susceptible to damage from extreme weather conditions, such as hail, high winds, and UV radiation.

Conclusion: When deciding between felt roofing and asphalt shingles, homeowners should consider durability, affordability, aesthetic appeal, and maintenance requirements. While both materials offer advantages and disadvantages, the choice ultimately depends on the homeowner’s preferences, budget, and specific roofing needs.