Investing in a new roof is one of the most significant decisions you can make as a homeowner. It affects everything from energy efficiency to structural protection—but how much does it affect your home’s value? A common question we get at Gutapfel Roofing is: Will asphalt shingles add value to your home?
Asphalt shingles are the most widely used roofing material in the U.S., thanks to their affordability, versatility, and reliable performance. But beyond practical function, asphalt shingles can offer a meaningful return on investment (ROI), especially when installed correctly and maintained well.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore the ways asphalt shingles contribute to property value—from curb appeal and buyer perception to home inspection outcomes and cost-efficiency. If you’re planning a roof upgrade or preparing your property for sale, this blog is for you.
Why Asphalt Shingles Are Popular with Homeowners and Buyers
Asphalt shingles cover millions of homes across the country. Their broad acceptance in the real estate market is no coincidence. Most buyers recognize them as a dependable roofing solution that balances price and performance.
Key reasons asphalt shingles appeal to buyers:
- Cost-effective without compromising on reliability
- Easy to maintain and replace
- Widely available and familiar to inspectors and contractors
- Compatible with various architectural styles
- Warranties from reputable manufacturers
Whether you’re updating your forever home or improving resale potential, asphalt shingles offer practical and financial advantages that buyers and appraisers recognize.
Curb Appeal: First Impressions Matter
The roof accounts for a significant portion of a home’s visible exterior. A worn-out, damaged, or faded roof can deter potential buyers before they even walk through the door. On the other hand, a clean, modern-looking asphalt shingle roof can instantly enhance curb appeal.
Design features that add visual value:
- Architectural shingles: These laminated shingles provide a dimensional, textured look that mimics wood or slate at a fraction of the cost.
- Color variety: Asphalt shingles come in a wide range of colors that can complement siding, brick, or trim for a polished, cohesive appearance.
- Uniformity: New shingles eliminate patchiness caused by repairs and weathering, presenting a fresh and cared-for appearance.
In competitive markets, homes with updated, attractive roofing often stand out and sell faster—sometimes at a premium.
Home Value and ROI: What the Data Says
According to the 2023 Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report by Remodeling Magazine, a new asphalt shingle roof recoups an average of 60% to 68% of its cost in added home value. While this return varies by region, home condition, and market conditions, the numbers show that a roof replacement using asphalt shingles is one of the smarter exterior upgrades you can make.
A new roof also adds value in less direct—but equally important—ways:
- Increases buyer confidence
- Reduces negotiation points during sale
- Passes inspection with fewer contingencies
- Lowers home insurance premiums in some cases
In fact, many lenders and insurers require roof certifications or recent replacements before issuing policies or approving loans. A new asphalt shingle roof checks these boxes affordably and effectively.
Energy Efficiency and Insurance Benefits
New asphalt shingles aren’t just about aesthetics or structural integrity—they can also improve your home’s energy profile and reduce insurance costs.
Cool Roof Technology
Some modern asphalt shingles are ENERGY STAR® certified and use reflective granules to reduce solar heat absorption. This helps keep your attic and living spaces cooler, lowering air conditioning costs during summer.
To learn more about energy-efficient roofing options, the U.S. Department of Energy provides helpful guidance on how roofing materials affect home energy use.
Insurance Discounts
Some insurance providers offer discounts for Class A fire-rated roofing systems or shingles with high wind and impact resistance ratings. Asphalt shingles rated for winds up to 130 mph or Class 4 impact resistance can help lower your risk profile.
While savings vary, these incentives make a compelling case for upgrading to modern, high-performance asphalt shingles.
Inspection Results and Buyer Peace of Mind
A failing or outdated roof can be a major red flag during the home inspection process. Issues like missing shingles, soft spots, granule loss, or leaks often result in price negotiations—or worse, lost sales.
Replacing your roof with asphalt shingles before listing can help your home sail through inspection. More importantly, it sends a strong signal to buyers that the home has been well cared for and won’t need costly repairs anytime soon.
Common inspection concerns avoided with a new roof:
- Water intrusion or stains
- Poor attic ventilation
- Structural deck damage
- Insufficient underlayment or flashing
- Mold or mildew in roofing layers
Addressing these issues pre-sale ensures smoother transactions and more negotiating power.
Cost-Effective Material with Broad Appeal
While premium roofing materials like slate, tile, or metal may impress luxury buyers, asphalt shingles appeal to the broadest demographic. They deliver value without appearing extravagant—an important balance in mid-range and suburban real estate markets.
Why asphalt shingles make financial sense:
- Affordable to install compared to metal or tile
- Available in upscale styles (e.g., architectural or designer shingles)
- Easy to repair if damaged
- Lower risk of over-improving for the neighborhood
In many areas, over-investing in ultra-premium materials won’t yield higher returns because buyers are unwilling to pay a steep premium for roof aesthetics alone. Asphalt shingles provide dependable ROI in both low- and mid-range markets.
Maintenance and Longevity Factors
Another reason asphalt shingles enhance property value is their relatively low maintenance demands. With proper installation and occasional upkeep, modern asphalt shingles can last 20 to 30 years or more.
Maintenance that preserves value:
- Keep gutters clean to prevent ice dams and water backup
- Replace damaged or missing shingles promptly
- Trim tree branches away from roof edges
- Remove moss or algae growth to prevent granule loss
- Schedule regular roof inspections after severe weather
These basic practices ensure your roof remains attractive and functional, maintaining the full value boost it provides.
For detailed maintenance standards, the National Park Service Preservation Briefs includes a helpful overview on roofing preservation techniques that apply to traditional and modern homes alike.
The Gutapfel Roofing Advantage
At Gutapfel Roofing, we’ve installed thousands of asphalt shingle roofs throughout Indiana and the surrounding region. We know what buyers expect, what inspectors look for, and how to deliver a roofing system that increases both value and peace of mind.
Here’s what we offer:
- Top-tier asphalt shingle brands with extended warranties
- Professional installation with proper underlayment, flashing, and ventilation
- Architectural and designer shingles for added curb appeal
- Expert advice on color selection, value engineering, and local code compliance
- Flexible scheduling for both urgent replacements and pre-listing upgrades
Whether you’re planning to stay in your home or preparing to sell, our team is ready to help you make the most of your roofing investment.
Let’s Add Value to Your Home Together
If you’re still wondering, will asphalt shingles add value to your home?—the answer is a confident yes. A new asphalt shingle roof boosts curb appeal, protects your investment, simplifies the sales process, and offers meaningful returns in nearly any real estate market.
Get a free estimate now to see how Gutapfel Roofing can help you increase your home’s value with a beautiful, durable asphalt shingle roof. We’ll guide you through the options, provide a clear quote, and deliver quality you can trust.
