Asphalt vs. Architectural Shingles

Living in New York means dealing with harsh winters, rainy springs, and hot summers. Your roof takes a beating all year round. So, picking the right type of shingle roofing is a big deal. When it comes to durability, cost, and style, the debate often comes down to Asphalt vs. Architectural Shingles. But which one is the right fit for your NYC home?

In this blog, we’ll break it all down for you in a simple and friendly way. Let’s talk about Asphalt vs. Architectural Shingles, what makes them different, and which one is the better choice for your New York home.

What Are Asphalt Shingles?

Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material in the U.S. They’ve been around for decades. They’re made with a fiberglass base coated with asphalt and mineral granules.

Why people love asphalt shingles:

• Affordable
• Easy to install
• Available in many colors
• Lightweight

They’re a great option if you’re on a tight budget or replacing a roof on a rental property.

What Are Architectural Shingles?

Architectural shingles, also known as dimensional shingles, are like asphalt shingles but upgraded. They’re made the same way, but thicker and more layered. That gives them a 3D look and more durability.

Benefits of architectural shingles:

• Longer lifespan (up to 30-50 years)
• Better wind resistance
• More stylish and textured look
• Higher resale value for your home

They’re a great pick if you plan to stay in your home for many years.

Asphalt vs. Architectural Shingles: The Key Differences

Here’s a quick table to compare them side by side:

Feature	Asphalt Shingles	Architectural Shingles
Lifespan	15-25 years	30-50 years
Cost	Lower	Higher
Appearance	Flat and simple	Textured and dimensional
Durability	Moderate	High
Weather Resistance	Good	Excellent
Warranty	10-25 years	30+ years
Best For	Budget or short-term homes	Long-term or forever homes

How Do They Hold Up in New York’s Weather?

New York weather is no joke. Blizzards in winter. Heat waves in summer. Rainstorms in fall and spring. Your roof has to handle all of it.

• Asphalt shingles do well in mild conditions but may wear out faster under snow and ice.
• Architectural shingles are heavier and more wind-resistant. They hold up better against storms and extreme cold.

If you live near the coast or in areas like Long Island, Queens, or the Bronx, go with architectural. They’re worth it for storm protection alone.

A Real NYC Roofing Experience: Joe’s Story

Meet Joe from Staten Island. For 12 years, his home had a basic asphalt shingle roof. It worked until a harsh New York winter storm hit. Shingles blew off, water leaked in, and the damage was costly. His insurance barely covered it.

After that, Joe looked into asphalt vs. architectural shingles. A local roofer recommended switching to architectural shingles for better weather protection. It cost a bit more, but five years later, Joe’s roof still looks brand new even after several tough nor’easters.

His words? “I wish I had gone architectural from day one.”

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Here’s a simple breakdown to help you decide:

Asphalt Shingles Pros:

• Budget-friendly
• Easier to install
• Lighter weight

Asphalt Shingles Cons:

• Shorter lifespan
• Lower resistance to wind and hail
• More repairs over time

Architectural Shingles Pros:

• Long-lasting
• Weather-resistant
• Great curb appeal

Architectural Shingles Cons:

• Higher upfront cost
• Heavier (needs a stronger roof deck)
• Longer install time

So, Which One Should You Choose?

If your budget is tight, asphalt shingles are a good short-term solution. They’ll protect your home and won’t break the bank.

But if you want a roof that lasts longer, adds value to your home, and stands up to New York’s tough weather, architectural shingles are the better pick.

It’s the classic case of pay now or pay later.

Expert Tip: Talk to a Local Roofer

Not all homes are the same. Your roof’s slope, size, and structure also matter. A local roofing expert can check your home and recommend what works best in your neighborhood.

Also, don’t forget about warranties. Many architectural shingles come with 30+ year warranties, which can give you peace of mind.

Extra Tips for New York Homeowners

If you live in the Empire State, here are a few roofing tips:

• Clean gutters regularly to prevent ice dams.
• Check your roof after storms for missing shingles.
• Schedule a roof inspection every 2 years.
• Keep nearby trees trimmed back.

These small steps can help extend the life of any roof whether asphalt or architectural.

Final Thoughts: Your Roof, Your Choice

In a city like New York, your roof needs to be more than average. Whether you’re facing gusty fall winds in the Bronx, heavy winter snow in Queens, or blazing summer heat in Manhattan, your roofing choice needs to keep up.When it comes to Asphalt vs. Architectural Shingles, both have their place but only one might be right for your specific home, lifestyle, and budget.

At SK Group NYC Corp, we believe in guiding our clients toward roofing solutions that make them feel confident, safe, and proud of their home. If you’re still unsure, reach out we’re here to make the process easy and honest.