Regarding our homes, the roof is one of the most critical components. It protects us from the elements, keeps us warm in the winter and cool in the summer, and is a crucial factor in the overall aesthetic of our homes. However, one thing that many homeowners may need to realize is that the roofing industry has fallen prey to the concept of planned obsolescence.
In the past, roofs were built to last for decades. The shingles were thick and durable, able to withstand harsh weather conditions and resist wear and tear. You may be asking, “why don’t they last like they used to? In recent years, most shingles on the market are designed to have less granule retention and show signs of wear and tear quickly into their lifetime.
The reduced granule retention makes shingles more vulnerable to hail, which results in more claims and higher insurance rates for homeowners. This problem is exacerbated by the fact that insurance companies are paying out more claims for hail damage. So roofing manufacturers make billions, insurance carriers make billions, and roofing contractors take a small piece of the pie. At the same time, homeowners end up paying for it.
So, what’s the solution? The answer is modified asphalt impact-resistant shingles. These shingles are specially designed to be more durable. They resist hail damage, meaning they can last much longer than traditional shingles. This is not only good for homeowners, but it also helps to reduce the number of claims made to insurance companies, which can help to lower insurance rates for everyone.
In conclusion, the concept of planned obsolescence has affected the roofing industry, and homeowners are paying the price. The good news is that there is a solution, and it’s available in the form of modified asphalt impact-resistant shingles. If you need a new roof, consider this option and speak with a professional roofing contractor to learn more about its benefits.