Is your roof showing signs of wear, but you're not sure what to replace it with? For many Michigan homeowners, asphalt shingles seem like the obvious choice, but how do you know if they’re the right choice for your home, budget, and lifestyle?
At Custom Built, we’ve worked with families across the Greater Lansing and Boyne City areas for over 15 years. We know what it takes to install a roof that withstands harsh winters, heavy spring rains, and hot summer sun. Our goal is to help you make confident, informed decisions about your home, starting with your roof.
In this article, we’ll give you an honest review of asphalt roofing materials. You’ll learn the pros and cons of each type of asphalt shingle, how they perform in Michigan’s climate, and whether asphalt roofing is a good fit for your home:
- Types of Asphalt Shingles
- 5 Pros of Asphalt Roofing Shingles
- 5 Cons of Asphalt Roofing Shingles
- Are Asphalt Roofing Shingles Right for You?
Types of Asphalt Shingles
3-Tab Shingles
A flat, uniform design with three distinct tabs per shingle.
Pros:
- Most investment-friendly asphalt option
- Lightweight and easy to install
- Readily available at most supply stores
Cons:
- Thinner and less durable
- Prone to wind uplift and cracking
- Shorter lifespan (15-20 years)
Best for: Investment-conscious homeowners, rental properties, or homes you don’t plan to stay in long-term.
Architectural (Dimensional) Shingles
PC: Bill Ragan Roofing Company
Thicker shingles with a layered, dimensional appearance that mimics wood shakes.
Pros:
- Stronger and more durable than 3-tab
- Better resistance to wind, hail, and moisture
- Adds depth and texture for improved curb appeal
- Longer lifespan (20-30 years)
Cons:
- Costs more than 3-tab
- Heavier weight may not suit every roof structure
Best for: Most Michigan homeowners who are looking for a long-lasting, attractive roof that balances cost and performance.
Luxury (Designer) Shingles
PC: Colony Roofers
Premium asphalt shingles that are built to replicate slate or cedar shake roofs.
Pros:
- Thickest and most durable asphalt option
- Designed to mimic high-end materials
- Enhanced resistance to weather and wear
- Can last up to 50 years
Cons:
- The highest cost among asphalt shingle types
- It’s heavier, which may require reinforced roof framing
- Not all installers have experience with these
Best for: Homeowners investing in long-term durability and high-end aesthetics without switching to slate or tile.
5 Pros of Asphalt Roofing Shingles
1. Cost-Effective for Most Budgets
Asphalt shingles are a great value upfront and are cheaper to install than metal, tile, or slate roofs. That makes them an ideal solution for many Michigan homeowners, especially when facing a sudden roof replacement.
2. Quick & Easy Installation
Most roofers in Michigan are experienced with asphalt shingles. The labor process is efficient, keeping costs and construction time lower than other roofing materials.
3. Wide Range of Colors & Styles
You can match asphalt shingles to nearly any home exterior. Whether you're going for modern, traditional, or rustic, there’s a look to match your style.
4. Reliable Performance in Michigan Weather
Architectural and luxury shingles hold up well to our Midwest seasons, snow, rain, wind, and summer heat included. In fact, according to Home Research Innovation Labs, asphalt shingles are used in 80% of homes in the United States.
5. Low Maintenance
No need for specialty coatings, sealing, or frequent inspections. A well-installed asphalt roof can perform reliably with minimal upkeep.
5 Cons of Asphalt Roofing Shingles
PC: Elmer’s Roofing
1. Shorter Lifespan Than Premium Roofing Materials
Even the best asphalt shingles won't last as long as metal, slate, or clay tile roofs. Expect to replace them after 20-30 years, or sooner, with basic 3-tab products.
2. Weather Vulnerability Over Time
Michigan freeze-thaw cycles, ice dams, and high winds can wear down shingles, especially older or improperly installed ones. Granule loss and curling are early warning signs of failure.
3. Environmental Impact
Asphalt shingles are petroleum-based and less recyclable than other materials. Most used shingles still end up in landfills.
4. Heat Retention
They absorb and hold heat, which may impact attic temperatures in the summer, especially without good ventilation.
5. Not Ideal for Low-Slope Roofs
Asphalt shingles don’t perform well on roofs with a pitch lower than 2:12. Water can pool and cause leaks.
Are Asphalt Roofing Shingles Right for You?
Asphalt roofing makes sense for a lot of Michigan homeowners, but not for everyone.
Here's how to tell if it fits your needs:
- You’re replacing a roof on a home you plan to stay in for 10-20 more years
- You’re looking for a cost-effective solution that still looks good
- You want a roof that performs well in snow, rain, and wind
- You don’t need ultra-premium aesthetics or 50+ year performance
- Your roof has a moderate to steep pitch
- You want a fast install with reliable local labor available
- You’re planning to resell within the next 10 years and want an updated look without overinvesting
Next Steps to Remodeling Your Roof
Asphalt roofing remains one of the most popular choices for Michigan homeowners because it’s affordable, easy to install, and comes in a variety of styles.
Now that you know the strengths and drawbacks of each asphalt shingle type, you’re in a better position to choose a roof that fits your needs and your budget.
At Custom Built, we’ve helped families across Michigan make roofing decisions that protect their homes and improve curb appeal for years to come.
Still unsure which roofing material is best for you? Contact our team for a free consultation. We’ll walk you through your options and help you make the right call.
Now that you know more about asphalt roofing shingles, let’s explore what the first step of the Custom Built Proven Process looks like with your build, a deeper look into common roofing materials, and the best exterior home improvement projects:
- What is a Discovery Call with Custom Built? - This article details what your first call with Custom Built looks like as you start planning your remodel.
- Comparing Roofing Materials for Your Michigan Home - Learn more about the various roofing materials you can incorporate into your replacement project.
- Top 5 Exterior Home Improvement Solutions in Michigan - Discover exciting ways to upgrade your home’s exterior with weather-resistant options.
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