Asphalt shingles are the most common roof on Staten Island because they balance price, looks and speed. A full replacement runs about $5,000 to $15,000+. Shingles last 15 to 30 years by grade, and most installs wrap up in 1 to 2 days.
What you are buying: a shingle in three layers
Every asphalt shingle is a layered sandwich. A fiberglass mat gives it strength and flex. Asphalt soaks the mat and keeps water out. Ceramic-coated granules sit on top and shield the asphalt from sun while adding color and fire resistance.
Underneath the shingles, the real protection comes from the system: underlayment, flashing, drip edge, ventilation and clean nailing. A great shingle on a sloppy install fails early. A good shingle installed right earns every year on its label. We install GAF asphalt shingle roofing across Staten Island, Brooklyn and New Jersey.
The three shingle grades, side by side
Asphalt is not one product. The grade you pick sets your lifespan, your look and your upfront price. Here is how the GAF options we install compare. Dots rate storm resilience in plain terms, with no lab numbers.
Lifespans are typical ranges for GAF shingles with a sound install and decent ventilation. Your roof’s slope, shade and exposure shift them.
Our advice for most homeowners: step up to architectural. The price gap over 3-tab is modest compared with the extra decade of life and the better curb appeal. Choose 3-tab when the budget is tight or the roof is small. Choose premium when you plan to stay and want the strongest shingle on the shore side.
The honest scorecard: pros and cons
Asphalt wins on value. It is not the best at everything. Here is the full picture.
Where asphalt wins
- Lowest upfront cost of the common roofing materials
- Fast install, often 1 to 2 days once work starts
- Many colors and profiles to match your home
- Repairs are simple, and any good roofer can match the material
- Works on most roof shapes and slopes
- Light enough that most decks need no extra framing
Where it falls short
- Shorter life than metal, tile or slate
- Extreme heat and heavy storms wear granules faster
- Moss and algae show up on shaded north slopes
- Entry-grade shingles age sooner on exposed shore blocks
- Needs a replacement cycle two or three times in the life of a metal roof
- Less distinctive than cedar, tile or standing seam
What an asphalt roof costs on Staten Island
Four things move your number: roof size, shingle grade, roof complexity (dormers, valleys, steep pitch) and the condition of the deck once the old roof comes off. Repairs cost far less. Typical figures:
For a full breakdown by cost driver, read our roofing costs guide. Planning a tear-off? Our roof replacement guide walks through the whole project.
Want a price on your actual roof? We measure, photograph and put a written estimate in your hands. The inspection is free with an estimate.
Get my free estimateColor choices that work on Staten Island homes
Pick color from the ground, in daylight, next to your siding, brick and trim. Ask for physical samples and look at them in morning and afternoon light. Dark shingles run warmer in summer. Lighter and blended tones hide streaks. Each family below comes in several shades from GAF.
Charcoal and blackSharp contrast on brick and light siding. Runs warmer in summer sun.
Gray and weathered grayNeutral. Pairs with almost any siding or trim color.
Brown and driftwoodWarm tones that suit tan, cream and wood-look exteriors.
Blue-gray slate tonesA cooler look for white and gray colonials.
Tan and weathered woodA lighter, earthy look that hides dust and pollen well.
Mixed and blendedSeveral tones in one shingle. Hides streaks and small repairs.
Color is a long commitment. Paint is not a good fix for a shingle you dislike, as we explain in our guide to painting shingles.
Installation: what the 1 to 2 days look like
- PrepPermit check and protectionA Department of Buildings permit is often needed. Rules change, so we confirm what applies. Crews tarp landscaping and set up debris control.
- Day 1Tear-off and deck checkOld shingles come off. We inspect the deck and replace any rotted boards before anything goes down.
- Day 2Underlayment, flashing and shinglesWaterproofing goes on, then flashing and drip edge, then shingles nailed in the right pattern.
- WrapCleanup and walkthroughMagnets sweep the yard for nails. You get a walkthrough and a written summary. Weather can add a day.
Maintenance that protects the investment
Asphalt asks for little, and the little matters. Once a year, plus after a major storm, have a professional look at flashing, sealant and shingle edges. Clear gutters in spring and late fall. Trim branches that touch the roof. From the ground, use binoculars to spot curling, missing pieces or granules piling in downspouts. Never climb an aging roof yourself. Our maintenance service covers the routine for you.
When asphalt is the wrong choice
We sell asphalt, and we still tell some homeowners to look elsewhere. Consider these instead when your priorities differ.
Asphalt also struggles on very low-slope or flat sections. Those need a membrane system, covered on our flat roofing page. Comparing every option? Start with 5 types of roofing to consider.
Questions Staten Island homeowners ask
How much does an asphalt shingle roof cost on Staten Island?
A full replacement runs about $5,000 to $15,000+. Roof size, grade, complexity and deck condition set the final number. We give you a written estimate after an inspection.
How long do asphalt shingles last?
For GAF shingles, typical lifespans are 15 to 20 years for 3-tab, 25 to 30 years for architectural and 30+ for premium lines. Installation and ventilation matter as much as grade. See our roof lifespan guide.
Are asphalt shingles good for Staten Island weather?
Yes, when you pick the right grade and the install is sound. Architectural and premium shingles handle nor’easters and heavy rain well. On exposed shore blocks, ask us about the premium line or metal.
How long does a shingle roof installation take?
Most homes take 1 to 2 days once work starts. Large or complex roofs, deck repairs and bad weather can add time.
Do I need a permit to replace my roof in NYC?
A Department of Buildings permit is often needed, and the rules change. As a rule of thumb, replacing more than about a quarter of the roof can trigger one. We confirm what applies to your address.
Will insurance pay for a new asphalt roof?
It depends on your policy. Storm damage may be covered, while age wear often is not. We provide photos and a written report to support your claim.
Ready to price your asphalt roof?
Licensed, insured and local. We inspect, photograph and quote in writing. Leak right now? We respond fast and stop the water first.
