Why So Many New England Homeowners Still Choose Asphalt Shingles
When it comes to roofing in New England, asphalt shingles remain one of the most trusted options. They’re affordable, durable enough to handle four seasons of weather, and come in plenty of styles to match both older and modern homes.
This guide breaks down the real benefits of asphalt roofing in a way that helps you decide if it’s right for your next project.
In This Guide
Why Asphalt Works Well in New England
Pros and Cons
How It Stacks Up Against Other Roof Types
Environmental Impact
Final Thoughts and What to Do Next
Why Asphalt Works Well in New England
New England weather is no joke. From snow and ice to hot summer sun, your roof needs to keep up.
Asphalt shingles are known for handling these swings pretty well. They don’t warp in the heat or crack in the cold, and when installed correctly, they can last 20 to 30 years. That’s why they’re still the top choice for so many homeowners in the region.
If you live in a town with older homes, asphalt also blends right in. It’s easy to match the style and color to your house, whether you’re in a Cape Cod or Colonial.
Pros and Cons
No roofing material is perfect, but asphalt offers a pretty solid balance of value and performance.
Pros:
Affordable upfront cost
Available in many colors and textures
Quick and easy to install
Simple to repair or replace small sections
Cons:
Shorter lifespan than metal or slate
Can be less eco-friendly
May require more maintenance after major storms
Asphalt vs. Other Roofing Options
If you’re on the fence between asphalt and other materials, here’s a quick comparison:
Metal roofing costs more but lasts longer (often 50+ years)
Slate looks beautiful but is heavy and expensive
Cedar shakes are natural but require regular upkeep
Asphalt sits right in the middle. It’s budget-friendly, performs well in most weather, and doesn’t require major structural upgrades to your home.
Environmental Considerations
Asphalt shingles are made from petroleum, so they’re not the greenest material out there. They’re also harder to recycle, and most old shingles end up in landfills.
That said, some newer asphalt options are more energy efficient and can help reflect sunlight, keeping your home a little cooler in the summer.
Final Thoughts
Asphalt shingles aren’t just a budget option — they’re a smart choice for New England homes. They’re easy to install, versatile in design, and hold up well to the region’s unpredictable weather.
If you want a roof that balances cost, performance, and style without overcomplicating things, asphalt is worth serious consideration.
Thinking About a New Roof?
At Division 7 ASM, we install asphalt and metal roofing throughout New England and know what works best for local homes. Whether you need a quote, a second opinion, or just want to talk through options, we’re here to help. Based in Amesbury, MA serving all New England (MA, NH, ME)
Contact us today to get started.
