Being a southwest Ohio resident means you know how unpredictable the weather can be. Bitterly cold and snow-filled winters turn to hot summers with high humidity, so your roof has to handle a lot in every season. To keep your home protected, choosing the right asphalt shingles and a trusted contractor for your roof installation is a must.
Guaranteed Roofing has helped countless Cincinnati homeowners protect their homes with high-quality, long-lasting roofs. Below, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about asphalt shingle roofing: types, benefits, lifespan, maintenance tips, costs, and how to pick the right contractor.
What Are Asphalt Shingles?
Asphalt shingles combine versatility and durability with affordability, which is perfect for Ohio’s unpredictable climate.
There are a few main types homeowners typically choose:
- Three-Tab Shingles: These are classic flat shingles with a clean, uniform look. They’re lightweight and cost-effective, while also being a reliable choice for many Cincinnati homes. Three-tab shingles are ideal if you want a simple, traditional roof.
- Architectural Shingles: Also called dimensional shingles, these provide extra depth and texture. They’re heavier than three-tab shingles and resist wind better, while often coming with longer warranties. The layered design improves curb appeal and increases your roof’s lifespan.
- Designer Shingles: These high-end shingles have lots of unique options for patterns, colors, shapes. They’re ideal for homeowners who want a custom, standout roof without sacrificing durability.
- Energy-Efficient Shingles: These asphalt shingles reflect heat away from your home, reducing cooling costs during hot summers. Many modern shingles are rated for energy efficiency, contributing to utility savings over time.
- CertainTeed Shingles: Known for durability and top-notch warranties, CertainTeed offers options in every style, including three-tab, architectural, and designer shingles.
- Owens Corning Shingles: Owens Corning is a trusted brand with a wide color palette and reliable performance in all types of weather. These shingles resist many hazards and elements: algae, wind, hail, etc.
Guaranteed Roofing works with all types of asphalt shingles mentioned above. Our team helps Cincinnati homeowners pick the best shingle for their home’s style and budget.
Benefits of Asphalt Shingles for Ohio Homes
The kind of weather we get in southwest Ohio takes a toll on roofs. Snow, ice, wind, and heat are all challenges your shingles need to handle. Asphalt shingles deliver strong protection, year after year.
Durable Performance
Durability’s one of the biggest benefits. Architectural and designer shingles withstand high winds and resist cracking in cold temperatures, while also shedding water effectively to prevent leaks. Even three-tab shingles perform well when installed correctly and maintained properly.
Aesthetic Appeal
Appearance is another advantage. Asphalt shingles come in virtually any color or style. Whether you want a classic, understated look or a bold, textured roof, shingles give you options to match your home.
Energy Savings
Energy efficiency keeps your home more comfortable and saves you money. Heat-reflective shingles help reduce attic temperatures during hot summers, lowering cooling costs. Proper ventilation combined with reflective shingles ensures your roof contributes to your home’s overall energy efficiency.
Lifespan and Warranty
How long your roof lasts depends on both the shingles and the installation quality.
- Three-Tab Shingles: Their lifespan is usually between 20 and 25 years. They’re great for cost-conscious homeowners, but may wear faster under extreme weather conditions.
- Architectural Shingles: These last even longer: between 30 and 50 years. Their thicker, layered construction makes them more resistant to wind and hail, along with ice dams.
- Designer and Premium Shingles: These options can reach up to 50 years when paired with quality installation and proper maintenance.
Most major manufacturers, including CertainTeed and Owens Corning, offer warranties from 25 years to lifetime coverage. Guaranteed Roofing also provides a workmanship guarantee. That means if a problem comes up due to installation, we’ll make it right.
Cost Factors to Consider
Understanding cost factors can help you budget for a new roof without surprises.
- Shingle Type: Three-tab shingles are the most affordable. Architectural and designer shingles cost more upfront but last longer and improve your home’s curb appeal.
- Roof Size and Structure: Wider or larger roofs, multi-level roofs, and those with a steep pitch tend to need more materials and have higher labor costs.
- Contractor Expertise: Experienced roofers like Guaranteed Roofing ensure proper installation. Poor installation can lead to leaks and early wear, along with expensive repairs.
- Additional and Upgraded Materials: Ventilation, underlayment, and energy-efficient shingles increase upfront costs but they save you money over the roof’s lifetime.
Choosing a Trustworthy Contractor in Cincinnati
The best asphalt shingles won’t perform well if they’re not installed correctly. That’s why selecting a reliable contractor is just as important as picking the right material.
Guaranteed Roofing has built a strong reputation in southwest Ohio for transparent estimates and professional workmanship combined with honest guidance. Our team knows the local climate, so we can recommend shingles that handle snow, ice, hail, and summer heat.
When you choose a contractor, ask about:
- Experience with the specific shingle type you want
- References from previous Cincinnati-area projects
- Workmanship guarantees and post-installation support
- Clear, detailed estimates without hidden fees
Hiring a trusted contractor protects your roof investment, allowing you to enjoy years of worry-free performance.
Maintenance Tips for Long-Lasting Asphalt Shingles
While they’re one of the most low-maintenance roofing options available, even the most durable asphalt shingles benefit from regular care. Make the following tasks part of your home maintenance routine to help your shingles perform at their best.
Routine Inspections
Start with an annual inspection. After winter storms or heavy winds, check for curled or cracked shingles or missing shingles. Pay attention to certain areas like roof valleys, ridges, flashing, as leaks commonly start in these areas. If you need a hand, give us a call and we’ll perform a roofing inspection for you.
Gutter Care
Gutter maintenance is key. Clogged gutters can create ice dams in winter or water backup in spring, leading to leaks and interior damage. Cleaning your gutters regularly helps shingles shed water efficiently. If you’d rather not tackle this yourself, we can help with professional gutter cleaning services.
Vegetation Hazards
Trim any overhanging tree branches to prevent scratches or punctures from falling limbs. Remove moss and algae growth safely, using roof-friendly solutions to avoid damaging the shingles’ protective coating.
Ventilation and Airflow
Monitor your attic ventilation. Proper airflow reduces heat buildup in summer and moisture accumulation in winter, protecting shingles and extending their lifespan. We also check ventilation during a roof inspection.
Protect Your Ohio Home with the Right Asphalt Shingles
Your roof is a major investment in your home’s safety, value, and comfort. Choosing the right asphalt shingles, paired with professional installation from Guaranteed Roofing, ensures your roof withstands Ohio’s challenging weather for decades.
Cincinnati homeowners can trust Guaranteed Roofing for honest guidance and expert workmanship. We complete every project with care, leaving you with a roof that looks great and performs even better.
Ready to Upgrade Your Roof?
If you’re considering a new asphalt shingle roof, now is the perfect time to explore your options! Guaranteed Roofing offers free, no-pressure estimates and helps homeowners select the best shingles for their home and budget.
Reach out today to schedule your consultation and protect your home with a roof you can trust for years to come.