Common Roofing Myths: What Every Homeowner Should Know about Asphalt Singles

At Stoltzfus Bros Construction, we hear a lot of misconceptions about roofing—especially when it comes to asphalt shingles. With so much misinformation floating around, it’s no wonder homeowners are confused about what roofing materials to choose, how much it should cost, and what kind of maintenance is required.

We’re here to set the record straight. As one of the premier roofing contractors in Central Pennsylvania, we work exclusively with the highest quality asphalt shingles to provide long-lasting, high-quality roofs to homeowners in State College, Bellefonte, Lock Haven, Boalsburg, and beyond. In this post, we’ll tackle the most common myths about roofing so you can decide when it's time for a new roof.

Myth #1: Asphalt Shingles Don’t Last Long

A lot of homeowners believe asphalt shingles are a temporary fix, with the assumption that they’ll need a new roof in 10–15 years. This might have been true decades ago, but thanks to modern advancements in shingle technology, the asphalt shingles we install today are built to last.

At Stoltzfus Bros, we exclusively use Owens Corning asphalt shingles because they offer some of the best durability on the market. With features like SureNail® Technology, these shingles are designed for superior grip and wind resistance, ensuring your roof stands strong against the elements. Owens Corning shingles come with a 50-year System Protection Warranty, so you're not just getting any roof—you're getting one engineered to last for decades.

In addition to the material warranty, we offer a 10-year workmanship warranty, meaning our team will cover you long after installation. So, when it comes to asphalt shingles, longevity is no longer a concern.

Myth #2: Asphalt Shingles Are Less Durable Than Other Materials

There’s a common misconception that asphalt shingles don’t hold up, as well as more expensive materials like metal or slate. The truth is Owens Corning’s asphalt shingles are incredibly durable, especially in Pennsylvania's weather.

Here in Central Pennsylvania, we experience everything from heavy snow to high winds, and our Owens Corning Duration® shingles are built to handle it. Thanks to their advanced wind resistance (up to 130 mph) and moisture barrier technology, these shingles are designed to endure extreme weather conditions without warping, cracking, or blowing off.

Whether in State College, Port Matilda, or Bellefonte, you need a roof to protect your home year-round. Asphalt shingles, particularly those we use at Stoltzfus Bros, are more than up for the task.

Myth #3: Asphalt Shingles Aren’t Energy-Efficient

Some homeowners assume that asphalt shingles don’t offer much in the way of energy efficiency compared to other materials like metal. While it’s true that metal can reflect heat, modern asphalt shingles have come a long way in terms of energy efficiency.

Owens Corning has developed ENERGY STAR® rated shingles that can help reflect more of the sun’s rays, keeping your home cooler in the summer. This means less strain on your air conditioning system and lower energy bills. And since Central Pennsylvania sees its fair share of heat during the summer months, installing energy-efficient shingles is a smart move.

Plus, when paired with proper ventilation, asphalt shingles can actually help regulate your home’s temperature more efficiently than you might think. At Stoltzfus Bros Construction, we take the time to ensure your roof is properly ventilated, which makes a huge difference in energy performance.

Myth #4: Asphalt Shingles Are the Cheapest Option for a Reason

We often hear people say that asphalt shingles are "cheap" in a negative sense, implying that they're the lowest-quality option on the market. But because asphalt shingles are more affordable than slate or metal roofing doesn't mean you're sacrificing quality.

One of the reasons asphalt shingles are cost-effective is because they’re widely produced and relatively easy to install compared to other materials. That doesn’t make them inferior. With Owens Corning shingles, you're getting top-notch quality at a price point that's more accessible for most homeowners. And when you factor in the long-term durability and warranty coverage, the value of asphalt shingles is clear.

In addition, Stoltzfus Bros Construction ensures that every installation is done with the highest level of craftsmanship. We never cut corners, so you're getting the best of both worlds—affordability and top-quality performance.

Myth #5: All Asphalt Shingles Are the Same

Not all asphalt shingles are created equal, and we like to emphasize this important point to homeowners. The type of asphalt shingles you choose can significantly impact your roof’s longevity, appearance, and performance.

At Stoltzfus Bros, we install Owens Corning Duration® and Berkshire® shingles designed for specific purposes. Duration® shingles are engineered for superior durability and weather resistance, while the Berkshire® line offers a more luxurious, slate-like appearance with all the benefits of modern asphalt technology.

So whether you're looking for the rugged protection of Duration® shingles or the upscale look of Berkshire® shingles, we can help you find the right option to meet your needs.

What to Look for in a Roofing Company

When choosing a roofing company in State College or the surrounding areas, it's important to pick an experienced, reliable contractor that uses top-quality materials. At Stoltzfus Bros Construction, we take pride in our workmanship and offer the Preferred Protection Limited Warranty in partnership with Owens Corning, so you know you're in good hands.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Expert Installation: Our team has years of experience and is committed to precision in every project.
• Top-Notch Materials: We exclusively use Owens Corning shingles for their durability, beauty, and warranty protection.
• Comprehensive Warranties: Our 50-year system warranty and 10-year workmanship warranty provide peace of mind.
• Customer Focus: From Boalsburg to Lock Haven, we work closely with homeowners to ensure their needs are met at every step.

Ready to Replace Your Roof?

If you're in the market for a new roof, don't let these common myths steer you in the wrong direction. Asphalt shingles offer outstanding durability, beauty, and energy efficiency—all at an affordable price. And when installed by Stoltzfus Bros Construction, you're getting the best.

Serving areas like State College, Bellefonte, Port Matilda, and beyond, Stoltzfus Bros is ready to help you make the most informed decision about your home. Contact us today to get started on your roofing project!