Asphalt Shingle Roofing

Asphalt shingle roofing is the most widely installed residential roofing material in the United States, and for good reason. Asphalt shingles deliver a reliable balance of affordability, curb appeal, and weather protection that has made them the default choice for homeowners from coast to coast. Here in Northeast Wisconsin, where roofs endure heavy snow loads, freeze-thaw cycling, summer storms, and occasional hail, asphalt shingles remain the go-to option for the vast majority of homeowners in Green Bay, Appleton, Oshkosh, and the surrounding six counties. This guide walks you through the three main tiers of asphalt roof shingles, what each one costs, how long they last, repair considerations, and the Atlas products Pierce Roofing installs as a PRO+ certified contractor. Whether you’re replacing an aging roof or choosing materials for a new build, the information below will help you make a confident decision.

Not all asphalt shingles are created equal. The market breaks down into three distinct tiers, each with different construction methods, performance characteristics, and price points. Understanding the differences helps you match your budget to the level of protection and appearance you want.

The cost of an asphalt shingle roof depends on several factors specific to your home — roof size, pitch, complexity, the shingle tier you choose, and whether a tear-off is needed. Steep roofs, multiple stories, and rooflines with many valleys or dormers take more time and materials than a simple gable roof. Pierce Roofing provides detailed, line-item estimates so you see exactly where every dollar goes. Contact us for a free inspection and written quote with no obligation. For a full overview of the replacement process, visit our roof replacement page.

The lifespan of asphalt roof shingles depends heavily on the product tier, installation quality, attic ventilation, and local weather conditions. Wisconsin’s climate is particularly demanding — roofs here face heavy snow, ice dams, UV exposure in summer, and severe temperature swings that cause expansion and contraction year after year.

• Architectural shingles: 25–30 years with proper ventilation and maintenance
• Designer/Luxury shingles: 30–50 years, depending on the specific product line

Proper attic ventilation is the single biggest factor you can control. A poorly ventilated attic traps heat in summer (baking shingles from below) and moisture in winter (accelerating granule loss and ice dam formation). Pierce Roofing inspects ventilation on every project and recommends improvements when needed. It’s one of the simplest ways to ensure your shingles reach their full potential lifespan.

Even the best asphalt shingle roof needs periodic attention. Regular maintenance and timely repairs protect your investment and prevent small issues from becoming expensive problems. Common repair needs in the Green Bay area include:

• Missing or blown-off shingles — High winds can lift and tear shingles, especially at edges and ridges. Prompt replacement prevents water from reaching the deck.
• Granule loss — Shingles shed granules naturally as they age, but accelerated loss from hail or poor ventilation shortens their effective lifespan.
• Cracked or curling shingles — Temperature cycling causes asphalt to dry out over time, leading to cracks and curling that compromise waterproofing.
• Flashing failures — The metal flashing around chimneys, vents, and valleys is often the first point of failure on any roof.
• Ice dam damage — A major concern in Wisconsin winters, ice dams form when heat escapes through the roof, melting snow that refreezes at the eaves and backs up under shingles.

Pierce Roofing recommends an annual roof inspection, especially after severe storms. Many of the issues above are covered by homeowner’s insurance when caused by storm events. Visit our roofing types overview to compare how different materials handle these same challenges.

Pierce Roofing installs the full lineup of Atlas asphalt shingles, and our PRO+ certification means we can offer extended warranties that standard installers cannot. Two product families stand out for Green Bay homeowners:

For the vast majority of residential roofing projects in Green Bay and Northeast Wisconsin, asphalt shingle roofing offers the strongest combination of value, performance, and aesthetic flexibility. Architectural shingles hit the sweet spot for most homeowners — attractive, durable, and backed by strong warranties, especially when installed by an Atlas PRO+ Platinum Select Contractor like Pierce Roofing. If you’re weighing asphalt against other materials, our roofing types comparison page can help. And if you’re ready to explore your options, call (920) 609-8304 or request a free estimate online. We’ll walk you through the products, pricing, and warranty options that make sense for your home and budget.