Choosing a new roof often comes down to one practical question: which material gives you the best balance of cost, durability, and appearance? For most homeowners, the answer is asphalt shingles. They remain the most widely installed roofing material in North America, and at New Stage Roofing & Home Improvement, Inc., they make up a large share of the projects we complete every year. Below, we explain what asphalt roofing is, how we install it, and why it continues to be the go-to choice for so many properties.
Why Asphalt Shingles Remain the Popular Choice
Asphalt shingles earned their reputation by doing several things well at once. They are affordable compared to metal, slate, or tile. They install faster than most alternatives, which keeps labor costs reasonable. And they come in a wide range of colors and profiles, so you can match nearly any architectural style from a modest ranch to a large colonial.
Modern asphalt shingles are also far more durable than the products of a generation ago. Manufacturers have improved granule adhesion, wind resistance, and algae protection. A quality architectural shingle can carry a warranty of 30 years or more when it is installed correctly. That last point matters. A premium shingle installed poorly will fail early, which is why proper installation is central to everything we do.
Types of Asphalt Shingles We Install
Not all asphalt shingles are the same, and we help you select the type that fits your home and your budget. The main categories differ in appearance, thickness, and expected lifespan.
- Three-tab shingles: The classic flat, uniform look. They are the most economical option and work well for straightforward roofs where budget is the priority.
- Architectural shingles: Also called dimensional or laminate shingles. They are thicker, layered for depth, and offer better wind and impact resistance. These are our most requested product.
- Luxury or designer shingles: The heaviest asphalt option, built to mimic the look of slate or cedar shake while keeping the practical benefits of asphalt.
During your consultation, we walk you through samples so you can see the color and texture in person. We also consider factors like roof slope, sun exposure, and neighborhood aesthetics before we recommend a product. As a GAF Master Elite contractor and CertainTeed Master Craftsman™, we install shingle systems from two of the most respected names in the industry.
Our Asphalt Roofing Installation Process
A shingle roof is a system, not just a stack of shingles. Each layer has a job, and skipping any of them shortens the life of the roof. Here is how we approach every asphalt installation.
- Tear-off and inspection: We remove the old roofing down to the deck and inspect the wood for rot, soft spots, or damage that must be repaired first.
- Underlayment and protection: We install ice and water shield in valleys and along eaves, then a synthetic underlayment across the field for a secondary moisture barrier.
- Flashing and ventilation: We replace or reseal flashing around chimneys, vents, and walls, and we confirm the attic ventilation is balanced to prevent heat and moisture buildup.
- Shingle installation: We nail each shingle to manufacturer specification, which typically means proper placement and the correct number of fasteners to meet wind-rating requirements.
- Cleanup: We clear the property of debris and run a magnet over the grounds to collect stray nails.
Following the manufacturer’s specifications is not optional busywork. It is what keeps the workmanship warranty valid and what protects your home over the long term.
Where Asphalt Roofing Fits Best
Asphalt performs well in a variety of settings. For single-family homes, it delivers a clean look and dependable protection at a price most families can plan around. For rental properties and investment homes, its lower installed cost and easy repairs make it a smart choice for owners watching the bottom line. Commercial buildings with sloped roofs also benefit from asphalt when a low-maintenance, cost-effective surface is the goal.
We serve homeowners and businesses throughout Natick, Framingham, Sherborn, Ashland, Dover, Wayland, & Wellesley, MA, and we treat every project with the same care regardless of size. If a storm damages your shingles unexpectedly, our 24/7 Emergency Service means you are never left waiting when water is getting in.
Working With New Stage Roofing & Home Improvement, Inc.
We understand that a new roof is a significant investment, and we never want you to feel pressured into a decision. We take time to explain your options, respect the budget you are working within, and complete the job on schedule. From your first phone call to the final cleanup, our goal at New Stage Roofing & Home Improvement, Inc. is a roof you trust and a relationship that lasts. Reach out today to discuss your asphalt roofing project.



