Residential Asphalt Shingle Roofing
Upgrade your home with a high-performance residential asphalt shingle roofing system designed for the PA climate. We bring a balance of lasting durability, striking style, and maximum value to protect your investment for decades.
Why Homeowners Trust Asphalt Shingle Roof Systems
In Pennsylvania, asphalt roof shingles stand as the most popular choice for residential homes - and with good reason. They're durable, aesthetic, weather resistant, and make long-term financial sense. Watch the video to learn why locals in PA rely on Joyland Roofing for an efficient and honest installation process.
3 Common Asphalt Shingle Types
Modern asphalt roofing technology is the result of decades of engineering. Leading brands like GAF and Owens Corning have performed rigorous trials and improvements to make sure their products endure heavy gusts, snow loads, and persistent rain for much longer lifespans than previous generations.
There're three primary asphalt shingle types available for your home:
- Architectural style
- Designer/Specialty
- 3-tab
- Arcgitectural style
- Designer/Specialty
- 3-tab
Architectural Shingles
Architectural shingles offer a dimensional, high-definition look designed to mimic a bit of the natural wood look. They’re durable, beautiful, and the top choice for homeowners seeking long-lasting performance. These shingles are by far the most common style of shingle installed in roof replacements. They blend a clean aesthetic and multiple color choices with longevity and lifetime warranties for a good bang for your buck.
There are a couple of sub-categories to the Architectural style as well. For instance, GAF sells the standard Timberline HDZ shingle, and then has a heavier, thicker Timberline HDZ Ultra shingle with additional benefits.
Architectural asphalt shingles provides a multi-dimensional, textured appearance meant to replicate the look of natural wood shakes. They're resilient, visually appealing, and the go-to option for those prioritizing performance over time. This variety is the most frequent choice for modern residential asphalt shingle roofing, offering a sharp look and diverse color palettes alongside extensive warranties.
There're two main tiers within the Architectural category. For example, GAF provides the standard Timberline HDZ option, as well as a more substantial, thicker Timberline HDZ Ultra version which offers enhanced structural advantages.
Standard Architectural Shingles
These are reliable, high-performing asphalt roof shingles. They're designed to protect your home from July highs to December lows. They include a solid warranty backing and serve as a middle ground between basic 3-tab options and the high-end luxury products available on the market.
Ultra Architectural Shingles
These share the aesthetic of the standard version but feature several specific upgrades:
• 20% increase in thickness and mass
• Sharper dual shadow effects for increased depth
• Enhanced resistance to algae via integrated copper components
Designer / Specialty Shingles
If your shingle roof is a prominent visual element of your architecture - such as a high pitch or a street-facing slope - these designer asphalt shingles are an ideal upgrade. With this option you get more colors and unique shapes and cuts to choose from. These types of roof shingles, like the GAF Slateline, mimic traditional slate tiles, while GAF Glenwood utilizes triple-layer tech to achieve a convincing wood-shake texture.
The primary advantage here is that high-end look of slate or cedar at a significantly reduced investment.
GAF Camelot II — Antique Slate
Designed to emulate geometric slate patterns through oversized individual tabs. It brings a touch of classic European flair to the home.
GAF Slateline shingles
Features heavy shadow accents and angled cuts to produce a traditional slate silhouette. The larger shingle face makes it perfect for expansive roof planes.
GAF Glenwood shingles
Regarded as the premier asphalt option for an authentic wood-shake aesthetic. While not actual wood, its density and profile successfully capture that rustic look without the high maintenance.
3 Tab Shingles
3-tab shingles are the original asphalt shingle. They get their name from the three tabs cut into each shingle (each shingle is approximately 36" long with 3 tabs).
Although 3-tab shingles usually cost less than architectural shingles, they are a bit more labor-intensive to install. This is because the tabs all need to line up perfectly so they look good from the ground, and it takes some know-how and time to get them lined up as they're installed.
Because of this, most roofing companies charge similar prices or don't even make a distinction in price between Architecturals and 3-tab shingles. 3-tab shingles tend to be more vulnerable to blowing off in windy conditions, and usually come with a shorter warranty period than other shingle styles.
The 3-tab is the traditional foundation of the asphalt roofing industry. The name comes from the three distinct sections cut into each strip. While the material cost is lower, they require more precision during the mounting process to ensure the tabs align perfectly for a professional finish.
Consequently, many contractors price these similarly to architectural shingles. They're also more prone to wind damage and typically carry more limited warranty coverage than multi-layered styles.
Let's Talk Asphalt Shingles!
Unsure which style suits your property? Ask to see physical samples during your scheduled walkthrough.
PROS & CONS OF ASPHALT SHINGLES
Are Asphalt Shingles the Right Choice for Your Home?
PROS
- Cost-effective for most budgets
- Widest range of colors and styles
- Easier and faster to repair than metal, slate or wood
- Maintenance free
- Noise dampening (as opposed to metal or slate durn heavy rain or hail)
- Weight advantage - much lighter than slate
PROS
- Cost-effective for most budgets
- Widest range of colors and styles
- Easier and faster to repair than metal, slate or wood
- Maintenance-free
- Noise-dampening (as opposed to metal or slate during heavy rain or hail)
- Weight advantage - much lighter than slate
CONS
- Shorter lifespan than premium roofs
- More vulnerable to hail and high winds than slate or metal
- Can fail early if installed improperly
- Heat absorption - less reflective than metal
Review our comparison data below to see how the lifespan of various shingle types stacks up against alternative roofing options.
The System - parts of an Asphalt Shingle Roof
A high-quality shingle roof is an integrated assembly, not merely the outer shingles. Every component is designed to work in tandem to shield your interior from moisture and wind while optimizing airflow and thermal performance.
6 Key Layers of an Asphalt Shingle Roof
Leak Barrier
Stops water intrusion in valleys, eaves, and vulnerable areas.
Deck Protection
Underlayment that shields the roof deck from moisture.
Starter Strip
Ensures proper alignment and wind resistance of the first shingle course.
Shingle Roof Replacement Process
We may not move as fast as a time-lapse, but our experienced teams can complete most residential asphalt shingle roofing projects within 24 to 48 hours.
The timeline and flow of a shingle roof replacement generally looks like this:
- Arrival - We typically place a dumpster in your driveway the evening before the crew arrives, or the morning of. The crew arrives around 7am, and begins staging the site.
- Property Protection - First up, we work on the ground covering and protecting things such as shrubs, AC units, flower bed ornaments, deck chairs and so forth.
- Tear off and cleanup - Taking the old roofing materials off, one shingle at a time.
- Roof repairs - Sometimes there's rotten wood or other issues that need to be addressed before a new roof can be installed.
- Install the new Shingle system - Starting with leak barrier and underlayment, and ending with the shingles, cap shingles and flashing details.
- Clean up - Our goal is to leave the building and premises in better condition than we found them, so clean up is a painstaking process of raking, sweeping, running a magnet for loose nails, and ensuring that everything is clean and safe.
- Final inspection - Job supervisor does a final quality control inspection on the roof and on the ground.
The typical sequence of a project involves:
- Arrival: A dumpster is delivered shortly before we begin. The team arrives early to prep the workspace.
- Property Shielding: We prioritize covering your landscaping, HVAC units, and outdoor furniture.
- Removal: We remove the existing asphalt shingles down to the roof deck.
- Substrate Check: We inspect for compromised wood that needs replacing before proceeding.
- Installation: We apply the leak barriers and underlayment before the final shingles and flashing.
- Site Restoration: We meticulously clean the area, using magnets to clear nails and raking all debris.
- Quality Check: A supervisor completes a final walkthrough and photo documentation.
How Much Does an Asphalt Shingle Roof Cost?
Planning for a new shingle roof requires clear financial expectations.
While total costs vary based on pitch, size, and material, here's a general guide for local pricing:
| Shingle Type | Description | |
|---|---|---|
| 3-Tab Shingles | Single-layer, flat-profile shingles. Simple, functional, and budget-friendly. | $6-$7 per square foot |
| Architectural Shingles | Multi-layered, dimensional shingles offering style, durability, and excellent value. | $6-$7.50 per square foot |
| Designer / Slate Shingles | Artisan-crafted shingles designed for premium appearance and estate-level curb appeal. | $9-$12 per square foot |
For detailed pricing by home size and shingle type, visit our Residential Roof Replacement Pricing page.
How long does an Asphalt Shingle roof last?
A roof is a decades-long commitment. At Joyland, we focus on installing high-tier asphalt roofing systems protected by the best warranties in the business to ensure your home remains dry for years to come.
What to Look for in a Shingle Roof Warranty
Decking Requirements
Confirm your roof deck meets brand standards. Manufacturers may deny claims if the shingle roof is installed over unapproved surfaces. Ensuring a proper base is essential for maintaining valid warranty protection on your home.
Workmanship coverage
Watch VideoCheck your labor protection. Many manufacturers offer enhanced coverage for certified pros. Since errors cause most residential asphalt shingle roofing failures, choose a strong warranty with clear terms and minimal fine print.
Leak Protection
See if defects that haven't leaked yet are covered. Some brands only pay for active leaks. If your shingles are clearly flawed but still dry inside, you might lack coverage depending on the specific manufacturer's policy.
Coverage Length
Watch VideoLearn the difference between prorated and non-prorated terms. A "lifetime" warranty varies—it may cover material flaws, labor, or both. Check how long full coverage lasts before the value begins to decrease over the years.
Transferability
See if the warranty moves to the next owner. A transferable asphalt roofing warranty is a major selling point. It offers future buyers the same confidence and protection you had, potentially increasing your home's resale value.
The Joyland Promise
Don't Pay a Penny until you're Pleased
That's it. For single-family homeowners, we don't require any money down. Not only that, if you're not happy with the work we've done, we're not going to force you to pay us.
We stand behind our work with the GAF Golden Pledge Warranty:
- Lifetime materials coverage
- Up to 30-year workmanship coverage
What Your Neighbors Say
Ready to See Shingle Samples on Your Home?
Frequently Asked Questions - Asphalt Shingles
How long does a typical roof replacement take?
Click to Watch VideoMost residential asphalt shingle roofing projects can be completed in just one or two days. While the process is intensive, experienced crews move through the stages of site protection, tear-off, and installation efficiently. The goal is to minimize disruption while ensuring the new asphalt roofing is installed correctly.
You can watch a video regarding this below.
How do you protect my property during a roof replacement?
Click to Watch VideoSite protection is a first priority. Before any shingle roof work begins, crews cover and shield sensitive areas like shrubs and AC units. This ensures that while the old asphalt shingles are being removed and the new ones installed, your landscaping and exterior features remain safe from falling debris.
How do you handle old debris and waste materials?
Click to Watch VideoWe manage the entire cleanup process from start to finish. We typically place a debris container on-site for the duration of the project. As the old asphalt shingles are removed, they're deposited directly into the container. This keeps your yard tidy and prevents old materials from accumulating around the perimeter of your home.
You can see how we drop off a dumpster before a project by clicking the button below.
Do you provide a written contract and clear pricing?
Transparency is key to our service. We provide a detailed written estimate that outlines the scope of work, the specific shingle types selected, and the total cost. We want you to feel confident in the investment you're making in your residential asphalt shingle roofing, so we ensure all financial details are clear before any work starts.
What happens if it rains during the scheduled installation?
Click to Watch VideoWe monitor weather patterns closely. If rain is forecast, we will coordinate with you to reschedule the project for a dry window. If unexpected weather occurs during the asphalt roofing process, our crews are trained to quickly secure and "dry-in" the roof with protective barriers to ensure your home's interior remains completely safe.
How do you ensure the roof is properly ventilated?
Learn MoreVentilation is a critical part of the installation process. During the replacement, we evaluate your attic's airflow and install necessary components like ridge vents or intake vents. Proper airflow prevents heat buildup and moisture issues, which is essential for maximizing the lifespan of your new asphalt shingles.
Can I transfer my roof warranty if I sell my house?
Many high-quality residential asphalt shingle roofing warranties are transferable to the next homeowner. Having a transferable warranty is a major selling point because it gives the new buyer peace of mind. Confirm this feature if you plan on selling in the future.
