Asphalt Shingles
The most common residential roofing material, made from fiberglass or felt base covered with asphalt and granules.
Types and Grades
Standard asphalt shingles last 20-25 years and cost $90-110 per square (100 sq ft) in 2026. Premium architectural asphalt lasts about the same but looks better and costs $140-170 per square.
The difference is mostly appearance, not durability. Both types fail in roughly 20-25 years in Ohio climate.
Pros and Cons
Asphalt is cheap, easy to install, and available everywhere. Cons: it's the shortest-lived roofing option, moderate hail and wind resistance, needs regular maintenance.
It's a solid temporary roof but not a long-term investment like metal or slate.
When To Choose Asphalt
Choose asphalt if you plan to sell the house in 10-15 years or want the cheapest upfront cost. Skip it if you're staying long-term, metal lasts twice as long and re-sells better.
Ohio's humid summers also stain asphalt shingles with algae faster than most other materials. See how algae and moss shorten an asphalt roof's life before deciding.