Asphalt Shingle Roofing: The Most Popular Choice
Asphalt shingles are the most widely used roofing material in North America, covering over 80% of residential homes. They offer an unbeatable combination of affordability, durability, aesthetic variety, and ease of installation. Available in architectural (dimensional) and traditional 3-tab styles, asphalt shingles provide reliable protection against coastal weather while offering homeowners extensive color and design options. Weather Shield Roofing installs premium asphalt shingles from leading manufacturers with comprehensive warranties.
Myrtle Beach Climate Consideration
Myrtle Beach's coastal climate presents unique challenges for asphalt shingles: high humidity encourages algae growth, salt air accelerates weathering, intense UV exposure fades colors, and hurricane-force winds test adhesion. Choose algae-resistant, high wind-rated architectural shingles with proven coastal performance. Proper ventilation is critical to prevent premature aging from trapped heat and moisture.
Best For
Pros & Cons
Advantages
- ✓Most affordable roofing material with excellent ROI
- ✓Wide variety of colors, textures, and architectural styles
- ✓Relatively simple and fast installation (1-3 days for most homes)
- ✓Widely available with strong manufacturer support and warranties
- ✓Wind-resistant options (up to 130 mph ratings) ideal for coastal areas
- ✓Impact-resistant (Class 4) shingles available for hail-prone areas
- ✓Easy to repair—damaged shingles can be replaced individually
- ✓Compatible with most roof structures and home designs
Considerations
- ✗Shorter lifespan compared to metal, tile, or slate (15-30 years vs. 40-100 years)
- ✗Susceptible to algae and moss growth in humid coastal climates (requires algae-resistant shingles)
- ✗Can suffer from wind damage in severe hurricanes if not properly installed
- ✗Heat absorption can increase cooling costs in summer months
- ✗Color granules can fade over time due to UV exposure
- ✗Not environmentally friendly—petroleum-based product with limited recyclability
Key Features
Architectural Shingles (Dimensional Shingles)
Premium multi-layered shingles that create a three-dimensional appearance resembling wood shake or slate. They're thicker, heavier, and more durable than 3-tab shingles, with lifespans of 25-30+ years. Architectural shingles offer superior wind resistance (110-130 mph ratings), better aesthetics, and stronger warranties. They're the most popular choice for new construction and roof replacements in Myrtle Beach.
3-Tab Shingles (Traditional Asphalt)
Classic single-layer shingles with a flat, uniform appearance. These are the most economical option, making them popular for budget-focused projects or rental properties. While they have shorter lifespans (15-20 years) and lower wind ratings than architectural shingles, they still provide reliable protection when properly installed and maintained.
Algae-Resistant Technology
Copper or zinc granules embedded in shingles inhibit algae and moss growth—critical for Myrtle Beach's humid coastal climate. Algae-resistant shingles prevent unsightly black streaks and extend roof lifespan by reducing moisture retention. Most premium shingles now include algae resistance as standard.
Class 4 Impact Resistance
Impact-rated shingles feature reinforced construction that withstands hail, falling branches, and debris. UL 2218 Class 4 (highest rating) shingles can qualify homeowners for insurance discounts in some areas. Ideal for homes near trees or in areas with severe storm activity.
Cool Roof Technology
Reflective granules reduce heat absorption, lowering attic temperatures and cooling costs by up to 15%. Particularly beneficial in Myrtle Beach's hot, sunny climate. ENERGY STAR® certified cool roof shingles are available in a wide range of colors, not just light tones.
Extended Warranty Options
Leading manufacturers (GAF, CertainTeed, Owens Corning, Atlas) offer tiered warranty systems. Standard warranties cover material defects for 25-50 years. Lifetime limited warranties cover architectural shingles for the life of the original homeowner. Enhanced warranties include wind coverage upgrades and transferable benefits for resale.
Available Styles & Options
Traditional 3-Tab
Flat, uniform appearance with visible tab cutouts. Budget-friendly option with clean, classic look. Ideal for simple architectural styles and rental properties.
Architectural (Dimensional)
Layered construction creates depth and shadow lines. Premium appearance mimicking wood shake or slate. Most popular choice for residential homes.
Designer/Luxury Shingles
Ultra-premium shingles with enhanced texture and unique profiles. Authentic wood shake or slate appearance. Highest wind ratings and longest warranties (50+ years).
Hip & Ridge Shingles
Specially designed shingles for roof peaks and hips. Pre-bent for easier installation and superior weather sealing. Available in colors matching field shingles.
Installation Details
Installation Requirements:
- Complete tear-off of old roofing materials (if 2+ layers exist)
- Roof deck inspection and repair of damaged plywood/OSB sheathing
- Installation of high-quality synthetic underlayment (preferred over felt)
- Ice-and-water shield along eaves, valleys, and roof penetrations
- Proper drip edge and flashing installation at all edges and transitions
- Strategic shingle layout for optimal aesthetics and weather resistance
- Nailing per manufacturer specs (4-6 nails per shingle depending on wind zone)
- Ridge and hip cap shingles for continuous weather seal
- Ventilation system installation or upgrade (ridge vent + soffit vents)
- Final inspection and debris cleanup with magnetic sweep for nails
Maintenance Requirements
Maintenance Tasks:
- Visual inspection after major storms for missing, lifted, or damaged shingles
- Annual professional roof inspection to catch small issues before leaks develop
- Clean gutters twice yearly (spring and fall) to prevent water backup
- Trim overhanging tree branches to prevent abrasion and debris accumulation
- Remove moss, algae, and debris with gentle washing (never pressure wash shingles)
- Check and maintain flashing around chimneys, skylights, and vents
- Inspect attic for proper ventilation and signs of moisture or leaks
- Replace individual damaged shingles immediately to prevent water infiltration
- Monitor for granule loss in gutters (sign of shingle aging)
Investment Considerations
Asphalt shingles offer the best value in roofing. Material costs are the lowest among all roofing types, and installation is straightforward, reducing labor expenses. Total project costs depend on roof size, pitch complexity, material grade, and additional features like ice-and-water shield or enhanced ventilation. While 3-tab shingles are the most economical, architectural shingles provide significantly better long-term value due to extended lifespan and stronger warranties.
Cost Factors Include:
- Roof size (square footage) and number of squares (1 square = 100 sq ft)
- Roof pitch and complexity (steeper roofs and multiple planes increase labor)
- Shingle grade: 3-tab vs. architectural vs. designer/luxury
- Removal and disposal of old roofing materials (1-3 layers)
- Underlayment quality (felt vs. synthetic) and ice-and-water shield coverage
- Number and type of roof penetrations (chimneys, skylights, vents, pipes)
- Ventilation upgrades (ridge vents, soffit vents, attic fans)
- Flashing replacement (chimney, skylight, valley, drip edge)
- Accessibility and safety requirements (scaffolding, safety equipment)
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between 3-tab and architectural shingles?
How long do asphalt shingles last in Myrtle Beach's coastal climate?
Are asphalt shingles good for hurricane-prone areas like Myrtle Beach?
Do asphalt shingles require special maintenance to prevent algae in humid climates?
Can I install new asphalt shingles over my existing roof?
What color shingles are best for Myrtle Beach homes?
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