Asphalt Shingle Roofing in Asheville & Western North Carolina
America’s favorite roof, tuned for mountain weather
Asphalt shingles are popular for good reason. They’re attractive, budget friendly, and quick to install. In Western North Carolina, the real test is performance in heavy rain, gusty winds, humid summers, and the occasional freeze. The right shingle choice and the right install details make all the difference. This page covers shingle types, realistic costs, pros and cons, the brands we trust, and how True North Roofing builds asphalt roofs that last in the Blue Ridge.
Why choose asphalt shingles
For many Asheville homeowners, asphalt shingles deliver the best mix of value, durability, and curb appeal. Each shingle uses a fiberglass mat, asphalt coating, and protective granules. The granules create color and shield the asphalt from UV light. Shingles are widely available, easy to repair after a storm, and they suit most roof designs.
Highlights
Wide palette of colors and styles
Works on most roof pitches and layouts
Straightforward service and repair
Strong value in the architectural category
Shingle types we install
1) 3-tab shingles
The classic, budget friendly option. Strips with three cutouts create a uniform, flat look. The upside is cost and simple repairs. The tradeoff is shorter lifespan and lower wind rating compared to thicker shingles.
Best for: basic re-roofs on a tight budget, sheds and outbuildings
Keep in mind: flatter profile, shorter service life
2) Architectural (dimensional) shingles
Multiple laminated layers create a thicker, dimensional profile with better wind performance. This is the sweet spot for value on most homes in Asheville and surrounding communities.
Best for: primary residences across WNC
Keep in mind: higher durability and richer look for a modest cost increase
3) Luxury or designer shingles
Engineered to echo slate or hand-split cedar. Heavier weight, deeper shadow lines, and standout curb appeal.
Best for: high visibility roofs, statement architecture
Keep in mind: higher upfront price with top tier appearance
Pro tip for our climate: choose algae resistant versions. In humid, shaded lots this cuts down on black streaks. Many premium lines use copper infused granules for extra protection.
Manufacturers we trust
These brands offer strong wind ratings, algae resistance options, and robust warranties. They also provide clear install specifications that our crews follow to the letter.
What an asphalt shingle roof costs
Exact pricing depends on your roof’s size, pitch, access, and the shingle line you select. Simple, single story roofs sit near the low end. Complex roofs with valleys, dormers, skylights, and steep slopes land higher. Your True North proposal lists materials, labor, and sensible upgrades so you see where every dollar goes.
Common cost drivers
Shingle grade: 3-tab is most affordable, architectural adds modest cost for higher performance, luxury is premium
Complexity: dormers, valleys, chimneys, and skylights increase flashing and time
Tear-off and disposal: removing old layers creates a clean substrate and a better finished roof
Access and labor: mountain terrain, steep drives, and multi-story setups affect staging and safety
Upgrades: synthetic underlayment, ice and water protection, ridge ventilation, and full chimney flashing kits pay off in longevity
If you want a ballpark before we visit, think in ranges rather than a single number. We will confirm specifics during your roof inspection and tailor options to your goals.
Pros and cons of asphalt shingles
Advantages
Strong value among durable roofing options
Versatility for traditional and modern homes
Fast install and easy repair with widely available components
Solid warranties in architectural and luxury lines
Considerations
Service life is shorter than metal
Algae and moss can streak shaded roofs without AR technology
Wind and impact performance is lower in basic 3-tab; architectural improves this
Recycling options exist but are limited compared to metal
How we build a better asphalt roof
An asphalt roof is a system. Shingles are the finish layer. The performance comes from the layers you do not see and the details that keep water moving.
Quality materials, matched to the home
We help you compare GAF, Owens Corning, CertainTeed, Malarkey, and Atlas lines by wind rating, color blends, algae resistance, and warranty terms. You will see samples on site so colors are viewed in your actual sun and shade. We specify high temp or standard ice and water protection based on roof geometry and sun exposure.
Framing and deck readiness
A long lasting roof starts with a solid deck. During tear-off we check for soft spots, delamination, and loose fasteners. Damaged sheathing is replaced and nails are re-set so the new system sits flat and bonds correctly.
Weatherproof underlayments
We install drip edge at eaves and rakes, then place ice and water protection in valleys and around penetrations. A synthetic underlayment covers the remaining field. This layered approach creates redundant barriers so wind driven rain has nowhere to go but off the roof.
Flashing that actually sheds water
Leaks almost always start at details. We install new step and counter flashing at walls, new chimney flashing with proper reglet cuts, kickout flashing where roof planes meet siding, and reinforced valley metal or woven shingle valleys depending on your design. Every metal type is matched to adjacent materials to prevent galvanic corrosion.
Correct fastening and layout
We follow each manufacturer’s nail pattern, count, and placement requirements. Starters go at eaves and rakes to resist wind uplift. Courses are straight and properly offset to avoid keyways lining up. Valleys, hips, and ridges get the right cuts and caps for clean water flow and a crisp finish.
Ventilation that protects your investment
Balanced intake and exhaust keeps attics cooler in summer and drier in winter. We evaluate soffit openings, ridge vents, and baffles. If intake is lacking, we suggest upgrades so the system actually breathes. Proper ventilation protects shingles, decking, and indoor air quality.
Storm readiness for WNC
Mountain weather asks a lot from a shingle roof. We use high wind rated shingles where exposure demands it, extend ice and water zones in vulnerable areas, and spec additional fasteners on ridgelines that catch prevailing winds. Gutters and downspouts are checked so water is carried away from siding and foundation.
Clean site, documented finish, real warranties
Daily magnet sweeps, full debris removal, and a final walk-through with photos of critical details. We register your manufacturer coverage and provide our workmanship warranty in writing.
Our asphalt shingle installation process
Inspection and consultation
Measurement, roof and attic assessment, color review, and a written proposal with line items and options.Preparation
Protect landscaping, full tear-off to the deck, replace compromised sheathing, and re-fasten as needed for a flat, secure base.Underlayment and flashing
Drip edge, ice and water protection at valleys and penetrations, synthetic underlayment, new flashings at chimneys, skylights, walls, and vents.Starter strips and field shingles
Starters at eaves and rakes to combat wind uplift. Architectural or luxury shingles laid in straight, consistent courses with proper offsets.Ridge and ventilation
Compatible ridge vent and caps installed. We verify intake and exhaust balance before finalizing.Cleanup and documentation
Magnet sweep, debris removal, final walk-through, photo set for your records, and warranty registration.
Most projects finish in two to three days on an average Asheville home, weather and complexity allowing.
Maintenance and inspection tips
Keep gutters clear so water does not back up under eaves
Trim branches to reduce impact and shade that promotes moss
Check flashings for dried sealant or movement around chimneys and skylights
Watch for excess granules in gutters as a sign of aging
Treat algae or moss with roof-safe cleaners and consider zinc or copper strips at the ridge
Schedule professional inspections yearly on older roofs and every one to two years on newer roofs, plus after severe storms
Preventive care protects warranties and catches small issues before they reach the living space.
FAQs about asphalt shingle roofs
How long will my asphalt roof last
Expect about 15 to 20 years with 3-tab shingles and 22 to 25 years or more with architectural shingles, depending on ventilation and exposure.
What color should I pick
Lighter colors reflect more heat. Darker tones can complement certain styles and hide dirt. We bring sample boards so you can judge color in your own light.
Do I need a permit to replace my roof
Most jurisdictions in North Carolina require a roofing permit. We handle the paperwork and inspections.
Can I add a new layer over old shingles
Code often allows one overlay, but we rarely recommend it. Overlays add weight, hide problems, and can shorten lifespan. Tear-off produces a better roof.
How do I prevent algae streaks
Choose algae resistant shingles, keep trees trimmed, clean gutters, and consider zinc or copper strips near the ridge.
Ready to choose your shingle
True North Roofing installs asphalt shingle roofing the right way for Asheville and Western North Carolina. We help you compare GAF, Owens Corning, CertainTeed, Malarkey, and Atlas, pick the right color and profile, and build a system that stands up to the mountains.
Want samples at your home and a clear, line item estimate?
Let’s schedule your roof inspection and get you a plan that fits your budget and your block.