Cheap vs. Quality Shingles: What Homeowners Need to Know Before Replacing a Roof
When it’s time to replace your roof, the choices can feel overwhelming—especially when comparing lower-cost shingles to higher-quality options. While saving money upfront can be tempting, the materials you choose today determine how well your roof protects your home for decades to come.
At Veenkamp Roofing, we’ve seen firsthand how big the difference truly is. Understanding what separates a “cheap” shingle from a high-quality one can help homeowners make informed, long-lasting decisions.
What Physically Makes a Shingle Cheap vs. High Quality?
Most homeowners see shingles as simple asphalt rectangles—but the real difference lies in how they’re engineered. Here are the construction factors that separate low-end shingles from premium roofing materials.
1) The Core Mat: Thickness and Strength Matter
Every shingle starts with a fiberglass mat. This mat is the skeleton of the shingle—and its quality determines much of the product’s durability.
Cheap shingles use:
- Thin, low-density fiberglass
- A mat that tears more easily
- Material that warps, curls, and cracks faster
Quality shingles use:
- Thick, high-density fiberglass
- Greater structural strength
- A base that holds asphalt and granules securely
A heavier, stronger mat is the foundation of a long-lasting roof.
2) Asphalt Content: The #1 Cost Driver
Asphalt is the waterproofing layer—and it’s expensive. Cheap shingles cut costs by using less of it.
Cheap shingles:
- Contain less asphalt
- Use more filler materials
- Are less flexible in heat or cold
- Become brittle sooner
Quality shingles:
- Have a higher asphalt mass
- Use fewer fillers
- Provide superior waterproofing and impact resistance
- Stay flexible longer
This is why cheap shingles feel lighter—they contain much less material that actually protects your home.
3) Granules: The Roof’s UV and Impact Shield
Granules aren’t just for color. They protect the asphalt from UV rays, impact, and fire.
Cheap shingles:
- Use lower-grade granules
- Have fewer granules per square inch
- Lose granules more quickly (you’ll see them in gutters)
- Fade or discolor sooner
High-quality shingles:
- Use ceramic-coated, high-performance granules
- Have superior adhesion
- Resist algae growth
- Maintain color and coverage for years
Granule quality has a major effect on both appearance and performance.
4) Sealant Technology: Wind Resistance Depends on It
The adhesive strip on each shingle is what keeps shingles from lifting or blowing off during storms.
Cheap shingles:
- Use basic adhesive formulas
- Seal slower
- Fail more often in cold or windy weather
Quality shingles:
- Use advanced polymer-modified adhesives
- Seal fast and stay sealed
- Hold tight in high winds (110–130+ mph ratings)
Better adhesion equals better storm protection.
5) Overall Weight and Layers
Roofers often say, “A heavier shingle is a better shingle.”
Cheap shingles:
- Are lighter because they use less asphalt and fewer granules
- Often are single-layer 3-tab designs
- Have minimal tear resistance
Quality shingles:
- Are heavier and denser
- Use multiple laminated layers
- Offer better impact resistance and curb appeal
Multi-layer shingles are designed for real-world weather—not just meeting minimum standards.
Beyond Construction: Why Quality Shingles Outperform Cheap Ones
In addition to better materials, high-quality shingles deliver longer life, stronger warranties, and better protection for your home. Here’s why the “cheap vs. quality” difference is more than just what they’re made of.
Lifespan
- Cheap shingles: 10–15 years
- Quality shingles: 25–50 years
Even if the upfront price is higher, investing in a longer-lasting roof saves thousands over time.
Weather Resistance
Michigan weather is tough on roofs. Quality shingles resist:
- Wind uplift
- Cracking and curling
- Algae and moss
- UV damage
- Granule loss
Cheap shingles break down fast under extreme seasonal changes.
Appearance & Curb Appeal
Quality shingles have richer color blends, deeper profiles, and coatings that resist fading. Cheaper shingles often fade, streak, or look flat and uneven.
Warranty Protection
Premium shingles often come with robust warranties—some even offer lifetime coverage. Cheap shingles usually come with limited, shorter-term warranties that reflect their lower durability.
Installation Advantages
High-quality shingles:
- Seal faster
- Lay flatter
- Are easier to install correctly
- Work better with today’s underlayments and venting systems
This reduces the chance of installation issues that can lead to leaks.
The Bottom Line: Quality Shingles Protect Your Home Better & Longer
Cheap shingles cut corners everywhere: thinner mats, less asphalt, weaker adhesives, and low-grade granules. High-quality shingles invest in durability, engineering, and overall protection.
Your roof is one of the biggest investments in your home. Choosing high-quality shingles means choosing:
- Better durability
- Longer lifespan
- Improved energy efficiency
- Strong weather protection
- Higher resale value
At Veenkamp Roofing, we help homeowners understand their options so they can invest wisely and protect their home for decades. Whether you’re exploring budget-friendly solutions or premium roofing systems, our team is here to guide you.
📞 Have Questions or Need a Quote?
Contact us today:
📧 info@veenkampGR.com | ☎ 616-785-2966
