Asphalt Shingle Roofing

Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material in Northern Michigan, and for good reason. They're affordable, they come in dozens of colors and profiles, and modern architectural shingles hold up well in our climate when they're installed correctly. That last part is the key -- installation matters more than most people realize.

Why Asphalt Shingles Work for Traverse City Homes

Asphalt shingles have come a long way from the flat, three-tab shingles your parents had. Today's architectural (dimensional) shingles are thicker, more wind-resistant, and designed to handle the kind of weather we get up here. Here's what makes them a solid choice:

• Cost-effective -- Asphalt gives you the best bang for your buck. A full reroof costs significantly less than metal or slate while still providing reliable protection.
• 20-30 year lifespan -- Standard architectural shingles last 25-30 years. Even basic three-tab shingles get you 20 years with proper ventilation and maintenance.
• Wind resistance -- Premium shingles are rated for 130+ mph winds. That matters when November storms roll across Grand Traverse Bay.
• Algae resistance -- Copper-infused granules prevent the black streaking you see on older roofs. Important with our humid summers near the lake.
• Style options -- From classic earth tones to charcoal and slate profiles, you can match any home style.

Brands We Install

We're certified installers for the three biggest names in asphalt roofing. That certification isn't just a badge -- it means we've met their installation standards and can offer you their best warranty packages.

GAF

The most popular shingle brand in North America. We install their Timberline HDZ line on most jobs -- it's a reliable, good-looking shingle with a lifetime limited warranty. For homeowners who want a step up, the Timberline Ultra HD offers a thicker, more dramatic profile.

CertainTeed

CertainTeed's Landmark series is another solid choice. Their color options are some of the best in the industry, and the Landmark Pro line includes StreakFighter algae resistance. We also install their Landmark Premium for homeowners who want a heavier, more textured look.

Owens Corning

The TruDefinition Duration line gives you excellent color depth and is rated for 130 mph wind resistance. Owens Corning also runs some of the best warranty programs in the business -- their Platinum Protection warranty covers materials and workmanship.

Our Installation Process

A shingle is only as good as the system underneath it. Here's how we approach every residential asphalt roof:

• Full tear-off -- We strip the old roof down to the deck. No layering over old shingles. We need to see the wood and fix any rot or damage before we build back up.
• Deck inspection and repair -- We replace any damaged plywood or OSB. If your decking has soft spots, we catch them now, not after the new shingles are on.
• Ice and water shield -- Applied on all eaves (minimum 3 feet past the exterior wall), valleys, and around penetrations. This is non-negotiable in Northern Michigan.
• Synthetic underlayment -- Full coverage over the entire deck. It's more durable than felt paper and provides better protection during installation.
• Proper ventilation -- We check your ridge vents and soffit intake to make sure you have adequate airflow. Poor ventilation is the number one cause of premature shingle failure and ice dams up here.
• Starter strips and hip/ridge caps -- Factory-made starter strips and matching ridge caps. No cutting field shingles for ridge caps -- that's a shortcut that leads to problems.
• Flashing -- Step flashing at walls, counter-flashing at chimneys, and drip edge on all eaves and rakes. We use aluminum or galvanized steel, properly sealed.

What Does an Asphalt Roof Cost in Traverse City?

Every roof is different, so we can't give you an exact number without seeing yours. The cost depends on roof size, pitch, complexity (dormers, valleys, chimneys), the shingle line you choose, and whether we find deck damage during tear-off. What we can tell you is that we'll give you a detailed written estimate up front, and we won't surprise you with hidden charges.

If you're thinking about a new roof or your current shingles are past their prime, give us a call. We'll come out, take a look, and give you an honest recommendation -- even if that means telling you your roof has a few more years left in it.