Asphalt shingles are still the #1 roofing material choice in Michigan — and it’s not even close.

Not because they’re “cheap,” but because they hit the sweet spot between cost, performance, availability, repairability, and curb appeal—especially in a climate like Downriver & Metro Detroit where roofs get punished by freeze/thaw cycles, wind-driven rain, heavy snow loads, and summer heat swings.

This guide breaks down why asphalt shingles remain the most popular, what Michigan homeowners should look for when choosing a shingle, and when it might make sense to upgrade to something else.

If you’re comparing materials or planning a roof this year, start with a free inspection:
👉 https://allpointconstructionmi.com/contact-us/

Why Do Most Michigan Homes Use Asphalt Shingles?

Because asphalt shingles offer:

  • Strong protection for Michigan weather
  • The best “cost-to-lifespan” ratio for most homes
  • Tons of styles and colors
  • Easy repairs (especially after storms)
  • Wide installer availability + proven methods

And in most cases, they’re the easiest roofing system to maintain without paying specialty-material pricing.

1) Asphalt Shingles Handle Michigan Weather Better Than People Think

Michigan’s roof stress is unique:

  • Winter freeze/thaw expansion
  • Ice dams and refreezing meltwater
  • Wind storms that lift and loosen shingles
  • Humid summerseason transitions that expose weak ventilation

Asphalt shingles perform well here when the roof system is built correctly, especially with proper ventilation.

Ventilation matters more than most homeowners realize:
👉 https://allpointconstructionmi.com/why-proper-roofing-ventilation-is-so-important/
Winter ventilation guidance:
👉 https://allpointconstructionmi.com/achieving-proper-attic-ventilation-during-winter/

2) Asphalt Is the Most Repairable Roofing Material After Wind Damage

After Michigan storms, most homeowners don’t need a full replacement — they need:

  • missing shingles replaced
  • lifted shingles resealed
  • flashing checked
  • vents and boots inspected

That’s where asphalt shingles win: repairs are faster, cheaper, and more widely available.

If you’re dealing with blow-offs:
👉 https://allpointconstructionmi.com/the-causes-of-and-fixes-for-shingle-blow-off/

Typical Michigan repair range:
Shingle blow-off repair usually costs $250–$900, depending on how many shingles are affected and whether the underlayment was exposed.

👉 Get a roof inspection before the next storm:
https://allpointconstructionmi.com/contact-us/

3) Asphalt Shingles Are the Best Value per Dollar (Most of the Time)

For most Michigan homes, asphalt shingles offer the strongest balance of:

  • material cost
  • labor cost
  • lifespan
  • warranty availability
  • future repair flexibility

If you’re budgeting or comparing replacement options:
👉 https://allpointconstructionmi.com/roofing-replacement-cost-estimates/

Typical Michigan roof replacement range (context):
Most roof replacements in Michigan fall around $8,500–$18,000+ depending on roof size, pitch, layers, ventilation upgrades, and decking condition.

4) Asphalt Shingles Come in Styles That Fit Almost Any Home

Modern architectural shingles look nothing like the old “flat 3-tab” roofs people picture.

Most homeowners choose asphalt because they can get:

  • dimensional textures
  • stronger shadow lines
  • high-end color blends
  • curb-appeal upgrades without premium material pricing

If you’re unsure what your roof needs (repair vs replacement):
👉 https://allpointconstructionmi.com/repairs-or-replacements-how-to-tell-what-your-roof-needs/

5) Asphalt Shingles Are Easier to Install Correctly — But Only If the Contractor Is Legit

A major reason asphalt stays popular is that installation is widely understood—but that’s also the trap:

A roof can be installed “fast” and still be installed wrong.

Two big failure points:

  • incorrect nailing patterns
  • weak ventilation design
  • shortcuts around flashing details

Correct fastening standards:
👉 https://allpointconstructionmi.com/many-roofing-nails-per-square/

If you’re comparing companies:
👉 https://allpointconstructionmi.com/what-to-consider-before-choosing-a-roofing-company-for-your-property/

And if you’re reviewing quotes:
👉 https://allpointconstructionmi.com/things-to-ask-when-getting-roofing-quotes/

6) Asphalt Shingles Make Insurance Claims Simpler

When storms hit Michigan, insurance often comes down to:

  • what caused the damage (wind/hail vs wear and tear)
  • how fast you documented it
  • whether the roof system shows storm impact

Asphalt shingles are easier for adjusters to evaluate and document.

Insurance guide:
👉 https://allpointconstructionmi.com/does-home-owners-insurance-cover-roof-leaks/

If you suspect storm damage:
👉 https://allpointconstructionmi.com/roof-storm-damage-and-its-easy-to-miss-signs/

7) When Asphalt Shingles Might Not Be the Best Choice

Asphalt isn’t “always best.” You may want another system if:

  • Your roof is very low-slope / flat
  • Your building needs a commercial membrane solution
  • You want an ultra-long lifespan specialty system

If you’re researching low-slope roofing:
👉 https://allpointconstructionmi.com/what-does-tpo-mean-in-roofing/
👉 https://allpointconstructionmi.com/what-is-bur-or-built-up-roofing/

Is Asphalt Roofing Worth It in Michigan?

For the majority of Michigan homeowners: yes — as long as the roof system includes:

  • correct underlayment and ice/water protection
  • correct nailing patterns
  • proper ventilation balance
  • flashing done right (chimneys, valleys, sidewalls)

If you want a pro to inspect your roof and explain your best options (repair vs replace vs upgrade), schedule here:

📞 Call (734) 407-7110
📍 Serving Downriver & Metro Detroit — view our service areas (including Allen Park  and nearby communities)
📅 Schedule your Free Roof Inspection via our Contact Us page

FAQ: Asphalt Shingles in Michigan

How long do asphalt shingles last in Michigan?
It depends on ventilation, install quality, and weather exposure. “30-year” shingles often don’t get a full 30 Michigan years:
👉 https://allpointconstructionmi.com/how-long-does-a-30-year-roof-really-last/

Are asphalt shingles good for high winds?
They can be—if installed correctly. Poor nailing patterns and old seal strips are common causes of blow-offs:
👉 https://allpointconstructionmi.com/the-causes-of-and-fixes-for-shingle-blow-off/

Do asphalt shingles require more maintenance than other roofs?
Not usually, but Michigan winters make inspections smart—especially after storms and thaw/refreeze cycles:
👉 https://allpointconstructionmi.com/what-happens-during-roof-inspections/