Asphalt shingles have been the number one choice of homeowners in the US for well over a century. But new advances in roofing technology have made them more durable and reliable than ever before. Fiberglass roof shingles are a high-quality roofing material that balances low roof replacement costs with Florida-ready hardiness. But are they right for your home?
That’s what we’re here to help you decide. PITCH Roofing is a locally owned and operated roofing company serving the state of Florida, and today we’re walking you through everything you need to know about fiberglass shingles. From shingle roof replacement costs to longevity and common repairs, keep reading for a complete breakdown of these popular roofing shingles.
What Are Fiberglass Roof Shingles?
Fiberglass roof shingles are made using a very similar process to traditional asphalt shingles, with one important distinction. Old school asphalt shingles were made from organic mat base, then dipped into a thick layer of asphalt and topped with stone granules. Fiberglass roof shingles follow a similar process, with the notable exception that their base mat is made from fiberglass, not organic materials.
This may seem like a small change, but it makes a big difference. Because fiberglass is hardier, these shingles are less prone to bending or breaking, even during one of Florida’s infamous tropical storms. Fiberglass also provides improved resistance against UV rays, which could otherwise dry out and warp your roofing shingles.
Since its inception, fiberglass shingle roofing has taken the world by storm. But is it the right material for your next roof replacement? To determine that, we need to look at the good and the bad of fiberglass asphalt shingles.
Pros and Cons of Fiberglass Roof Shingles
Every roofing material has its upsides and downsides, including fiberglass roof shingles. That’s why PITCH is here to walk you through the pros and cons so you can make an informed decision. Keep reading for a detailed report on the good and bad of fiberglass asphalt shingles.
Pro: Low Shingle Roof Replacement Costs
If you want an affordable roof that can still do the job of protecting your home, fiberglass roof shingles are an excellent option. Without sacrificing quality, these roofs come with simple manufacturing and installation that keeps your costs low. But how much can you expect to pay for fiberglass roof shingles?
Quality, architectural fiberglass roof shingles cost between $4 and $9 per square foot for residential structures. So if your roof is 1,500 square feet, then you’re looking at fiberglass shingle roof replacement costs between $6,000 and $13,500.
Of course, this is just a range. For specific numbers, your contractors will need to figure in your roof’s slope, accessibility, roofing accessories, the state of your roof decking, and other important factors. That’s why the only way to get an exact number is through a personalized roof estimate.
Con: Middling Life Expectancy
When you get a new roof, you want it to last. While fiberglass roof shingles will last for some time, they just can’t compare with other sloped roofing materials. On average, fiberglass shingle roofs last 20 to 25 years in Florida.
This isn’t bad, but it’s nowhere near the 40 to 70 year lifespan of metal roofing or the up to 100 years of protection that clay tiles offer. And because you’ll need more frequent roof replacements, getting shingle roofs can cost you more in the long run. Still, fiberglass roof shingles will be able to protect your home for decades without breaking the bank, even if they don’t last as long as other options.
Pro: Wide Variety of Colors and Styles
Asphalt roof shingles are the most popular roofing material in North America. That means that there are a ton of options with regard to the type, style, and color of fiberglass roof shingles you can choose from. So no matter what style or aesthetic you’re looking for, you’ll always find a shingle option that suits your property and your tastes.
Con: Somewhat Common Roof Repairs
Fiberglass roof shingles really are built to last. They’re waterproof, wind-resistant, and even hold up well to Florida’s extreme UV rays. Even so, however, these shingles need repairs somewhat often when compared to other sloped roofing systems.
Some of the most common roof repairs fiberglass roof shingles include:
- Shingles that have been partially or completely torn off by the wind
- Cracked, curling shingles from drying out due to UV exposure
- Leaks from damaged shingles
- Nails that have been loosened by high winds
- Moss or algae growth on old shingle roofs
As you can see, there are a lot of reasons that your shingle roof could need repairs. In our experience, shingle roofs usually need some repairs, especially once they’re more than 10 years old. That’s why it pays to stay ahead of roofing problems with regular roof inspections, which you can get for free when you get a PITCH roof replacement and join our Black Tie rewards program.
Pro: Easy to Repair and Replace
One of the beautiful things about fiberglass roof shingles is how easy they are to replace. Tearing off old shingles takes almost no time, and nailing new shingles into place is simple and straightforward. So while roof repairs will probably come up, you will have no problem finding contractors to do the work and keep the repair costs reasonably low.
This also makes your roof replacement much easier. Tearing off your old roof and installing a new one won’t take long, and you’ll enjoy minimal disruption to your daily life. This makes a fiberglass shingle roof replacement among the most convenient options when getting a new roof.
Get a Free Estimate for Your Fiberglass Shingle Roof Replacement
If you’re ready to move forward with your shingle roof replacement, the next step is getting your free, no-obligation roofing estimate. With PITCH, we conduct a quick inspection of your roof and prepare a personalized estimate that includes all parts of your roof replacement on an itemized list. No guesswork, no hidden fees, and no hassle!
For your free estimate, call us at 727-677-4824 or fill out our contact form. Instead of focusing on pushy sales tactics, PITCH focuses on giving you the facts you need to make an informed decision. Reach out today and see what a difference Roofing Done Right can make!
Heather Ware is an In-House Roofing Specialist at PITCH Roofing. Working daily alongside our internal roofing teams, she translates complex Florida building codes and roofing techniques into clear, actionable advice for homeowners. With 4 years of experience in the Florida roofing industry, her goal is to ensure property owners have the exact facts they need to protect their investments.
