When you’re looking up at your roof and wondering about replacement options, you’re not alone. Asphalt shingles account for 81% of the overall residential roofing market in 2023, making them the overwhelming choice for homeowners across America and right here in the Fargo-Moorhead metropolitan area. That’s because asphalt shingles offer the perfect balance of affordability, durability, and aesthetic appeal that fits both your budget and our challenging North Dakota and Minnesota climate.
For homeowners in our region, choosing the right roofing material isn’t just about curb appeal. The Fargo-Moorhead area presents unique challenges that your roof must withstand: severe hailstorms, brutal winter temperatures that can plummet well below zero, heavy snow loads, and the dreaded ice dams that can wreak havoc on unprepared roofing systems. Fargo area has had 13 reports of on-the-ground hail and 22 severe weather warnings in past 12 months, with Doppler radar detecting hail at or near Fargo on 66 occasions. These aren’t just statistics, they represent real threats to your home’s protection and your family’s safety.
Whether you’re dealing with storm damage, planning a proactive roof replacement, or simply want to understand your options, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about asphalt shingles. We’ll cover the different types available, what you can expect to invest in your new roof, how our regional climate affects your choices, and what the installation process looks like.
Our goal at Fargo Roofing & Siding is to provide you with the knowledge you need to make an informed decision about one of your home’s most important systems. After all, your roof isn’t just about protection, it’s about peace of mind, knowing that your family and belongings are safe regardless of what Mother Nature throws at us here in the Upper Midwest.
What are Asphalt Shingles
At their core, asphalt shingles are engineered roofing materials designed to provide long-lasting protection against the elements while remaining cost-effective for homeowners.
Modern asphalt shingles consist of several carefully layered components that work together to protect your home. The foundation of the shingles is typically a fiberglass mat base that provides structural strength and dimensional stability. This mat is then saturated and coated with asphalt, which creates the waterproof barrier that keeps moisture out of your home. The top layer of the shingles features ceramic-coated mineral granules that serve multiple critical functions: they protect the asphalt from harmful UV rays, provide fire resistance, and give the shingles their color and texture.
The evolution from older organic-based shingles to modern fiberglass construction represents a significant improvement in performance. Made from multiple layers of asphalt and fiberglass, today’s shingles offer superior dimensional stability, meaning they’re less likely to curl, crack, or warp under temperature extremes, which is a crucial advantage in our Fargo-Moorhead climate where temperatures can swing from -30°F in winter to 90°F in summer.
The asphalt itself isn’t just any asphalt. Shingles manufacturers use specially formulated asphalt that includes modifiers to enhance flexibility, adhesion, and weather resistance. These modifications help the shingles maintain their integrity through repeated freeze-thaw cycles, which is particularly important in the Fargo–Moorhead metro area region where winter temperatures can cause significant expansion and contraction of roofing materials.
The mineral granules deserve special attention because they’re your roof’s first line of defense against our harsh weather conditions. These aren’t just decorative, they’re engineered to reflect sunlight, reducing heat absorption and helping to keep your home cooler in summer. They also provide protection against hail impact, which is especially relevant given Fargo–Moorhead metro area’s frequent hail events. Some premium asphalt shingles feature specially enhanced granules that offer additional algae resistance, helping maintain your roof’s appearance over time.
What makes asphalt shingles particularly well-suited for the Fargo-Moorhead area is their proven performance in extreme weather conditions. Unlike some roofing materials that can become brittle in cold weather or lose their effectiveness in heat, quality asphalt shingles maintain their protective properties across a wide temperature range. They’re also designed to handle the wind uplift forces common during our spring and summer storms, with proper installation providing excellent wind resistance.
The quality of materials, manufacturing standards, and design features of asphalt shingles can vary significantly between manufacturers and product lines. This is why choosing shingles from reputable manufacturers like CertainTeed, and Atlas, brands that have proven themselves in our challenging climate, makes such a difference in long-term performance and satisfaction.
Types of Asphalt Shingles
Not all asphalt shingles are created equal, and understanding the different types available helps you choose the best option for your home’s needs and your budget. The asphalt shingle market has evolved significantly, with architectural asphalt shingles segment accounting for around $4 billion in 2024 and estimated to grow at 4.4% CAGR, reflecting homeowners’ increasing preference for higher-quality options that offer better performance and aesthetics.
Three-Tab Shingles
Three-tab shingles represent the most basic and economical option in the asphalt shingle family. These shingles get their name from the three tabs cut into each shingle, creating a uniform, flat appearance across your roof. They’re typically the thinnest option available, with a single layer construction that makes them lightweight and easy to install.
While three-tab shingles offer the lowest upfront cost, they also provide the shortest lifespan, typically lasting 15-20 years under normal conditions. In the Fargo-Moorhead climate, with its extreme temperature swings and frequent hail events, three-tab shingles may show wear more quickly than in milder climates. However, they still provide adequate protection and can be a smart choice for budget-conscious homeowners or those planning to sell their home in the near future.
Architectural Shingles
Architectural shingles, also known as dimensional or laminated shingles, represent the sweet spot for most homeowners in terms of value, performance, and aesthetics. These shingles feature multiple layers of material laminated together, creating a thicker, more durable product with enhanced dimensional appearance that mimics the look of traditional wood shakes or slate tiles.
The construction of architectural shingles provides several advantages over three-tab varieties. The multiple layers create better wind resistance, improved impact resistance against hail, and superior overall durability. Architectural shingles typically last 25-30 years, making them a better long-term investment despite their higher initial cost. The dimensional appearance also adds significant curb appeal, with shadow lines and varied textures that create visual interest.
For homeowners in the Fargo – Moorhead area, architectural shingles offer excellent performance against our challenging weather conditions. The enhanced thickness provides better protection against hail damage, while the improved wind resistance helps architectural shingles withstand the strong winds that often accompany our spring and summer storms.
Luxury and Premium Shingles
At the top of the asphalt shingle hierarchy are luxury and premium options that offer the highest level of performance, durability, and aesthetic appeal. These shingles often feature enhanced materials, specialized manufacturing processes, and unique design elements that set them apart from standard options.
Premium shingles may include features like enhanced granule formulations for better color retention, improved impact resistance ratings, and specialized designs that closely mimic high-end materials like slate, cedar, or clay tiles. Impact and cool-roof shingles cost 15-30% more, but this investment can pay dividends in performance and longevity.
Impact-Resistant Shingles
Given Fargo–Moorhead region’s propensity for hail damage, impact-resistant shingles deserve special consideration. These shingles are engineered and tested to withstand impact from hailstones, earning classifications from Class 1 (basic) to Class 4 (highest impact resistance). Class 4 shingles have been tested to withstand impact from 2-inch diameter steel balls dropped from 20 feet, simulating large hail impact.
CertainTeed’s ClimateFlex shingles, which we offer in our Diamond Package, are Class 4 impact-resistant shingles specifically designed for regions like ours where hail damage is a significant concern. These shingles not only provide superior protection but may also qualify you for insurance discounts, helping offset their higher initial cost.
Brand-Specific Options
As a certified CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster™ contractor, we specialize in CertainTeed’s proven product lines. The Landmark series represents their architectural shingle offering, providing excellent durability and aesthetic appeal with a prorated limited lifetime warranty. The Landmark Pro takes performance a step further with enhanced features and a 50-year warranty.
Atlas shingles round out our offerings with cost-effective options that don’t compromise on quality or durability. Atlas architectural shingles provide excellent value for homeowners seeking enhanced performance without the premium price tag.
How to Choose the Best Asphalt Shingles for Your Home
The choice between asphalt shingle types depends on several factors: your budget, how long you plan to stay in your home, your aesthetic preferences, and your risk tolerance for weather-related damage. In the Fargo-Moorhead climate, we generally recommend architectural shingles or better as the minimum choice due to their superior performance in extreme weather conditions.
For homeowners in high-risk hail zones or those who have experienced repeated hail damage, investing in Class 4 impact-resistant shingles can provide peace of mind and potential insurance savings. The enhanced protection these shingles provide often justifies their higher cost, especially when you consider the disruption and expense of repeated roof repairs or replacements.
Asphalt Shingle Costs in the Fargo-Moorhead Area
Understanding the investment required for a new asphalt shingle roof helps you budget appropriately and make informed decisions about your home’s protection. In the Fargo-Moorhead metropolitan area, the average cost of a complete roof replacement that we, at Fargo Roofing & Siding, install is approximately $40,000, though this figure can vary significantly based on several key factors that we’ll explore in detail.
Factors Affecting Roofing Costs
The size of your roof is the most obvious cost driver, but it’s not just about square footage. Roof complexity plays a major role in determining the final roof replacement costs. A simple ranch-style home with minimal roof lines will cost less per square foot than a multi-story home with dormers, valleys, and complex architectural features. Each additional roof penetration, such as chimneys, skylights, or vent stacks, requires additional labor and materials for proper flashing and waterproofing.
The pitch or slope of your roof also affects the roof replacement costs. Steeper roofs require additional safety equipment, slower installation procedures, and may necessitate specialized installation techniques. This is particularly relevant in the Fargo-Moorhead metro area where snow load requirements often influence roof design and pitch.
Material choices significantly impact your total roof investment. While basic three-tab shingles represent the most economical option, most homeowners in the Fargo-Moorhead region choose architectural shingles or premium options for their enhanced durability and weather resistance. The difference in material costs between three-tab and architectural shingles might be $50-100 per square (100 square feet), but the improved longevity and performance often justify this investment.
Regional factors specific to the Fargo-Moorhead area also influence pricing. Our harsh climate requires high-quality underlayment, proper ventilation systems, and ice dam prevention measures that may not be necessary in milder climates. Additionally, the seasonal nature of roofing work in our region can affect pricing, with peak season demand potentially increasing costs.
Additional Cost Considerations
Beyond the shingles themselves, several other components contribute to your total roofing investment.
High-quality underlayment is essential in our climate, providing an additional moisture barrier and ice dam protection. Proper ventilation systems, including ridge vents and soffit vents, are crucial for preventing ice dams and maintaining energy efficiency throughout our long winters.
Flashing around chimneys, vents, and roof penetrations require skilled installation and quality materials to prevent leaks. In our freeze-thaw climate, proper flashing installation is particularly critical as expansion and contraction cycles can stress these vulnerable areas.
Gutter systems, while not always included in roofing estimates, often require attention during roof replacement. The heavy snow loads and ice dam potential mean that gutters must be properly sized and securely attached to handle the additional weight and stress.
Insurance Considerations
Given Fargo-Moorhead region’s frequent hailstorms, many roof replacements involve insurance claims. At Fargo Roofing & Siding we handle insurance claims on behalf of our customers, working directly with adjusters to ensure proper coverage and quality repairs. This service can save you significant amounts of time and stress while ensuring that all necessary work is properly documented and covered.
When filing insurance claims, the type of shingles you choose for your roof can affect your coverage and future premiums. Impact-resistant shingles may qualify for insurance discounts, while premium roofing materials might have higher replacement costs that affect your coverage limits. Fargo Roofing & Siding will work with you and your insurance company to navigate these considerations and maximize your claim benefits.
Value and Return on Investment
While the upfront cost of a quality roof replacement represents a significant investment, it’s important to consider the long-term value. A new roof provides an excellent return on investment when selling your home, with quality installations often recouping 60-80% of their cost in increased home value.
More importantly, a quality roof provides peace of mind and protection for your family and belongings. In the Fargo-Moorhead area, where roof failure can result in significant interior damage from water infiltration or ice dams, investing in quality materials and professional installation is essential protection for your home’s value and your family’s safety.
The warranty coverage provided with quality shingles and professional installation also adds value by protecting your investment in your roof for years to come. Fargo Roofing & Siding standard project warranties of 10-15 years, combined with manufacturer warranties on materials, provide comprehensive protection that extends well beyond the initial installation of the roof.
Financing and Payment Options
Roof replacement represents a significant investment, and we, at Fargo Roofing & Siding, work with homeowners to make quality roofing accessible. Many insurance claims significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses, and we handle the claim process to maximize your coverage and minimize your costs.
For homeowners in the Fargo-Moorhead metro area, planning proactive roof replacements or dealing with partial damage not covered by insurance, we can discuss financing options and payment plans that fit your budget while ensuring you get the quality protection your home deserves.
Roof Installation Process
Professional asphalt shingle installation is a systematic process that requires skilled craftsmanship, proper materials, and attention to detail, particularly in our challenging Fargo-Moorhead climate where installation quality directly affects long-term performance and weather resistance. Understanding what’s involved in professional installation helps you appreciate the value of working with certified contractors and ensures you know what to expect during your roof replacement project.
Pre-Installation Preparation
Before any shingles are installed, thorough preparation sets the foundation for a successful project. This begins with a comprehensive inspection of the existing roof structure to identify any issues that need addressing. In our region, we often find damage from ice dams, wind uplifts, or previous hail events that must be corrected before new materials can be installed.
The roof deck inspection is particularly critical because our freeze-thaw cycles can cause wood decking to expand, contract, and potentially deteriorate over time. Any damaged, warped, or deteriorated decking must be replaced to provide a solid foundation for the new roofing system. We also check for proper spacing and fastening of existing decking, as inadequate support can lead to premature failure of the new roof.
Structural assessment includes examining rafters, trusses, and other supporting elements to ensure they can handle the loads imposed by new materials and our region’s heavy snow loads. This is especially important when upgrading from lighter three-tab shingles to heavier architectural materials.
Weather Considerations and Timing
Roof installation timing is crucial, where weather windows can be limited and conditions can change rapidly. While we, at Fargo Roofing & Siding, have the capability and experience to install roofing systems year-round, certain weather conditions create optimal installation environments.
Temperature considerations are particularly important because shingle sealant strips require heat activation to create proper weather sealing. Cold weather installations require special attention to ensure proper sealing, and we may use additional sealing methods to compensate for reduced heat activation in winter conditions.
Wind conditions during roof installation can affect both worker safety and installation quality. Strong winds can lift materials, interfere with proper placement, and create safety hazards. We monitor weather conditions carefully and adjust work schedules to ensure safe, quality installation.
Precipitation, whether rain or snow, can halt roof installation activities and requires immediate protection of exposed areas. We maintain comprehensive tarping and protection systems to safeguard your home during weather delays.]
Tear-Off and Disposal
Most quality roof installations begin with complete removal of existing materials, allowing for proper inspection and preparation of the roof deck. This tear-off process requires care to avoid damage to the underlying structure while ensuring complete removal of old materials.
The tear-off process reveals the true condition of your roof structure and allows for identification of any hidden damage or issues. In the Fargo-Moore area, we often discover ice dam damage, ventilation problems, or previous repair attempts that need correction before new materials can be installed.
Proper disposal of old materials is both an environmental responsibility and a practical necessity. We handle all disposal requirements, ensuring that old shingles and materials are disposed of properly according to local regulations. This service saves homeowners significant expense and hassle of arranging their own disposal.
Deck Preparation and Repair
Once the old materials are removed, the roof deck is thoroughly inspected and prepared for new installation. This includes checking for proper fastening, adequate support, and structural integrity. Any damaged or deteriorated decking is replaced with materials that meet current building codes and manufacturer requirements.
Proper deck preparation also includes ensuring adequate ventilation openings and proper spacing for thermal expansion. North Dakota and Minnesota’s climate’s extreme temperature variations make proper deck preparation particularly important for long-term performance.
Underlayment Installation
Quality underlayment installation is crucial in our climate, where ice dams and severe weather can drive moisture under shingles. We use high-quality synthetic underlayment that provides superior moisture protection compared to basic felt paper.
Ice and water shield installation is standard practice in our region, applied to all eaves areas and other vulnerable locations where ice dams commonly form. This self-adhering membrane provides an additional barrier against water infiltration and is particularly important for preventing damage during harsh winters.
Valley treatment receives special attention because these areas concentrate water flow and are particularly vulnerable to ice dam formation. We, at Fargo Roofing & Siding, use enhanced waterproofing methods in valleys to ensure long-term protection against our region’s challenging conditions.
Ventilation System Installation
Proper ventilation is essential for preventing ice dams, controlling moisture, and maintaining energy efficiency. We install comprehensive ventilation systems that include both intake vents at the eaves and exhaust vents at the ridge.
Ridge vents provide continuous exhaust along the roof peak, while soffit vents ensure adequate intake airflow. This balanced system creates proper air circulation that helps prevent ice dam formation and maintains consistent temperatures across the roof surface.
Ventilation calculations are based on roof size, pitch, and local climate conditions to ensure adequate airflow for our specific requirements. Proper ventilation system design and installation can significantly reduce ice dam formation and extend the life of your roofing system.
Shingle Installation
The actual shingle installation follows manufacturer specifications and industry best practices, with special attention to our region’s requirements for wind resistance and weather protection. Each shingle is properly aligned, adequately fastened, and correctly overlapped to ensure weather-tight installation.
Fastener placement is critical for long-term performance, where wind uplift and thermal movement can stress improperly fastened shingles. We use the correct number and type of fasteners for each shingle type and ensure proper penetration depth for secure attachment.
Starter strips and hip/ridge installations receive particular attention because these areas are most vulnerable to wind uplift and weather infiltration. We, at Fargo Roofing & Siding, use specialized materials and installation techniques to ensure these critical areas perform properly throughout our challenging weather conditions.
Flashing and Penetration Sealing
Proper flashing installation around chimneys, vents, and other roof penetrations is crucial for preventing water infiltration. Minnesota and North Dakota’s freeze-thaw climate is particularly hard on flashing systems, making quality materials and expert installation essential.
We use high-quality flashing materials designed for our climate conditions and employ installation techniques that accommodate thermal movement while maintaining watertight seals. Each penetration is individually assessed and treated with appropriate flashing systems.
Final Inspection and Quality Control
Every roof installation concludes with a comprehensive quality control inspection that verifies proper installation of all components. This includes checking fastener placement, shingle alignment, flashing integrity, and overall system performance.
We also conduct a thorough cleanup process that removes all debris and ensures your property is left in excellent condition. This attention to detail reflects our commitment to quality and professionalism.
Installation Timeline and Efficiency
Our experience and proper staffing allow us to complete most residential roof installations efficiently while maintaining high quality standards. Unlike some roofing contractors who may struggle with scheduling or weather delays, we have the manpower and expertise to work effectively regardless of season.
The typical roof installation timeline depends on roof size, complexity, and weather conditions, but most residential projects can be completed within a few days to a week. Emergency roof repairs and storm response can often be handled much more quickly when needed.
Our year-round installation capability means you don’t have to wait for ideal weather conditions to protect your home. We have the experience and equipment necessary to work safely and effectively in challenging conditions when needed.
Lifespan and Durability of Asphalt Shingles
Understanding the expected lifespan and durability characteristics of asphalt shingles helps you make informed decisions about your roofing investment and plan for long-term home maintenance. In the Fargo-Moorhead area, where extreme weather conditions can accelerate wear and aging, realistic expectations about performance and longevity are essential for proper planning and budgeting.
Expected Lifespan by Shingle Type
Different types of asphalt shingles offer varying lifespans, with performance expectations that must be adjusted for our challenging regional climate.
3-Tab Shingles
Basic three-tab shingles typically provide 15-20 years of service life under normal conditions, but in our region with frequent hail, extreme temperature variations, and severe weather events, the actual shingles lifespan may be shorter depending on specific exposure and maintenance practices.
Architectural Shingles
Architectural shingles represent a significant step up in durability, with expected lifespans of 25-30 years. Their multi-layer construction and enhanced materials provide better resistance to our region’s challenging conditions, including improved impact resistance against hail, better wind uplift resistance, and superior thermal cycling performance. This enhanced durability often justifies Architectural shingles higher initial cost when viewed over the long term.
Luxury Shingles
Premium and luxury shingles can provide service lives extending up to 50 years when properly installed and maintained. These materials incorporate advanced manufacturing techniques, superior base materials, and enhanced protective coatings that help them withstand our region’s extreme conditions. The extended warranties offered with these products reflect manufacturer confidence in their long-term performance.
Factors Affecting Shingle Longevity
Climate exposure plays the most significant role in determining actual shingle lifespan in our region. The combination of extreme temperature variations, frequent hail events, heavy snow loads, and intense UV exposure during summer months creates a demanding environment that tests every aspect of shingle performance.
Temperature cycling, where materials repeatedly expand and contract due to temperature changes, creates fatigue stresses that can lead to cracking, curling, and granule loss of the asphalt shingles over time. Our region’s extreme temperature swings from sub-zero winter conditions to hot summer temperatures create particularly challenging thermal cycling conditions.
Installation quality significantly impacts longevity, with proper fastening, adequate ventilation, and correct installation techniques being essential for achieving expected shingles performance. Poor installation can reduce shingle life by years or even decades, making the choice of qualified, experienced roofing contractors crucial for long-term satisfaction.
Maintenance practices also affect longevity, with regular inspections, prompt repairs, and proper gutter maintenance helping extend shingle life. Poor maintenance of roofing shingles can speed up deterioration and lead to early replacement.
Ready to Protect Your Home with a Quality Asphalt Shingle Roof?
Don’t wait for the next hailstorm or notice obvious roof damage before taking action. Contact Fargo Roofing & Siding today to schedule your free inspection and receive a personalized assessment of your roof’s condition and replacement options.
Whether you’re dealing with storm damage, planning a proactive roof replacement, or simply want to understand your options, our experienced team is ready to help. Call us or fill out our online form to schedule your free roof inspection and take the first step toward long-term protection and peace of mind for your home.
Your roof is too important to leave to chance. Choose Fargo Roofing & Siding, the roof replacement specialists who understand the unique demands of the Fargo-Moorhead climate, work directly with your insurance provider, and back their work well after the job is done.
