Roofs aren’t forever. As much as you may wish it was so, it just isn’t the case. At some point, you have to replace it, and when you do, you want to choose the best material possible. There are many roofing options, but two of the most popular ones include rolled roofing and shingles.
Between rolled roofing vs shingles, which option is best? Both of these have benefits worth considering, but they also have different use cases. It's important to fully understand each option before making a decision.
Comparing Rolled Roofing vs Shingles
When comparing roof shingles and rolled roofing, understanding both materials and their differences is key. Although they are very similar in construction, the differences in the materials play a part in determining which is best for your needs.
What is Rolled Roofing?
Rolled roofing, also called MSR or mineral-surfaced roofing, is one of the easiest to install and most inexpensive roofing options on the market. It is available in rolls, typically around 36 feet long and 36 inches wide, covering about 100 square feet of roofing. It is composed of a felt or fiberglass base coated in asphalt, much like your traditional shingle, though it is thinner. It is best for flat or low-sloping roofing projects, including some residential applications, sheds, workshops, and outbuildings.
What Are Shingles?
Shingles are one of the most common forms of roofing and have been used since around 1901. They are an affordable, relatively durable, and easy-to-install option that is widely available. As mentioned, shingles and rolled roofing share a similar composition: a felt or fiberglass base coated in asphalt. Shingles have an additional layer of granules that goes over the asphalt, adding additional protection and durability. Shingles are smaller in size and installed individually. They work well with most roof slopes, making them great for residential roofing.
The Differences Between Rolled Roofing vs Shingles
Understanding the key differences between rolled roofing and shingles will help you determine which option best suits your needs.
Cost
When comparing roll roofing vs. shingles, roll roofing is more affordable if it fits your roofing project. It will cost about $4 per square foot for materials and labor. Shingles, being a higher-quality product and somewhat more labor-intensive to install, are more expensive, though not by much. You can expect to spend around $5 per square foot for labor and materials.
Installation
Another important area with notable differences to consider between rolled asphalt roofing vs shingles is the installation process. Rolled roofing is a much quicker and easier install, but it still requires research before attempting it as a DIY project. The process involves applying an adhesive to the roof before carefully unrolling the material and using heat or nails to fully adhere it.
Shingles are laid individually, starting from the bottom of the roof and going upwards to the roofline in an overlapping pattern. While still relatively easy compared to other roofing materials, this process takes more time than a rolled roof installation.
Durability
When it comes to durability, shingles vs rolled roofing offer a fairly significant contrast. Shingles offer more durability due to their thickness, flexibility, and ability to expand and contract without damaging the other shingles.
Lifespan
The most important fact to consider between roof shingles vs rolled roofing is the lifespan of each product. Lifespan can vary depending on the maintenance and climate. Regardless of all of this, rolled roofing has a significantly shorter lifespan than shingles, typically lasting 5 to 8 years but no more than 10 years. Shingle roofs can last anywhere from 15 to 30 years.
The Benefits of High-Quality Roofing
Your roof is a key part of your home, providing protection from the elements. It is a long-term investment, and you want to ensure you choose a material that will last for many years. When it comes to roll roofing vs shingles, shingles are the superior choice. However, there are also higher-quality materials that offer more significant benefits.
Brava: A Solution for Every Roof
Brava Roofing Tile is a synthetic roofing brand made using 100% recycled materials compressed into highly durable, lightweight, easy-to-install tiles. The tiles are designed to mimic the appearance of natural materials, and there are three styles, including cedar shakes, slate, and Spanish barrel tiles.
These types offer the highest levels of durability— Class 4 impact ratings, Class A fire ratings, hurricane-strength wind, UV, and freeze-thaw cycle resistance, making them suitable for any climate and offering a lifespan of 50 years or more. Beyond this durability and longevity, the color is infused during manufacturing, creating a realistic, dimensional coloring that will never chip, fade, or crack. They also work with all roof types, allowing you to have a more seamless and aesthetically pleasing home, shed, or other structure, regardless of the slope. The best part is that these tiles are incredibly low-maintenance, giving you one less thing to worry about.
Contact Brava today to learn more about Brava products and which is best: Brava vs rolled asphalt roofing vs shingles.
