Why Huntsville Roofing Experts Hate Low-Quality Shingles and What to Use Instead

A roof is only as strong as the materials it’s made from, and shingles play a huge role in that. Yet, many homeowners unknowingly choose low-quality options that don’t hold up to the elements. Roofing companies in Huntsville, AL, have seen firsthand the damage that cheap shingles can cause, leading to costly repairs and premature replacements.

Flimsy Shingles That Curl and Crack Long Before Their Warranty Expires 

Shingles are supposed to protect a home for decades, but low-quality ones often don’t make it past a few seasons before showing signs of failure. Flimsy shingles tend to curl at the edges or crack under changing weather conditions. Hot summers and cold winters cause rapid expansion and contraction, weakening the material. Once shingles start curling, they no longer provide proper coverage, allowing water to seep underneath and damage the roof’s structure.

Huntsville roofing experts recommend choosing shingles with reinforced fiberglass backing and high-quality asphalt for better durability. Thicker, well-manufactured shingles resist curling and cracking, ensuring they last as long as their warranty promises. Investing in premium shingles from reputable brands keeps roofs stronger and minimizes the risk of unexpected repairs.

Poor Granule Retention Leading to Faster Wear and Sun Damage 

Shingle granules may seem insignificant, but they play a key role in protecting roofs from harmful UV rays and weather damage. Low-grade shingles tend to lose granules quickly, leaving the underlying asphalt exposed. This speeds up the aging process, making shingles brittle and prone to cracking. Roofs with excessive granule loss also absorb more heat, leading to higher indoor temperatures in the summer.

To avoid this issue, roofing companies near me recommend choosing shingles with high granule adhesion and UV-resistant coatings. High-quality shingles hold their granules much longer, providing better protection from the sun while keeping a home energy-efficient. A well-built shingle retains its protective layer for years, preventing premature wear and costly replacements.

Weak Sealing Strips That Let Wind Lift Shingles with Ease 

Wind resistance is a crucial factor in roof durability, but low-quality shingles often come with weak sealing strips that fail to keep them in place. Strong gusts can easily lift these shingles, exposing the underlayment and creating gaps where water can enter. Over time, this leads to leaks, mold growth, and structural damage that require major repairs.

Huntsville roofing professionals recommend shingles with strong adhesive backing and interlocking designs that prevent wind damage. High-performance sealing strips ensure shingles stay firmly in place even in storms, keeping the roof intact. For homes in areas with unpredictable weather, impact-resistant and high-wind-rated shingles offer the best protection against harsh conditions.

Cheap Materials That Absorb Moisture and Promote Mold Growth 

Shingles should repel water, not absorb it, but low-quality materials often do the opposite. Poorly manufactured shingles lack proper water resistance, allowing moisture to seep in and create the perfect environment for mold and algae growth. This not only weakens the shingles but also spreads to other parts of the roof, leading to widespread damage.

Roofers near me recommend choosing shingles with moisture-resistant technology and protective coatings that prevent mold from taking hold. Algae-resistant shingles also help maintain a clean, streak-free roof, reducing maintenance needs. Investing in moisture-proof shingles prevents long-term issues and helps roofs last longer without constant upkeep.

Thin Designs That Fail to Insulate, Raising Energy Bills Year-round 

A quality roof does more than just keep rain out—it also helps regulate indoor temperatures. Low-quality shingles are often thin and lack the insulation needed to keep homes comfortable. This means homes lose heat in the winter and absorb too much in the summer, causing energy bills to rise. A poorly insulated roof forces HVAC systems to work harder, leading to increased energy consumption.

Huntsville roofing specialists recommend using shingles with built-in insulation properties, such as reflective granules or dual-layered designs. These shingles help maintain stable indoor temperatures, reducing the strain on heating and cooling systems. By choosing high-performance materials, homeowners can enjoy lower energy bills while keeping their homes comfortable year-round.

Inferior Impact Resistance Making Roofs Vulnerable to Hail and Debris 

Not all shingles are built to withstand impact, and cheap ones are especially prone to damage from hail, falling branches, and other debris. Once shingles crack or break, water can easily seep through, leading to costly repairs. Huntsville roofing companies have seen the aftermath of storms where weak shingles fail, leaving homeowners scrambling to fix leaks and structural damage.

To avoid this risk, experts recommend class 4 impact-resistant shingles, which are designed to withstand severe weather conditions. These shingles have reinforced layers that provide extra durability, reducing the likelihood of damage during storms. Investing in impact-resistant shingles ensures that a roof can handle whatever nature throws its way without frequent repairs.