If commercial roofs had a dating profile, asphalt shingles would probably be labeled “Reliable, budget-friendly, and a little underrated.” But just like any relationship, it’s best to know the good, the bad, and everything in between before you commit.
Choosing a roofing material for your commercial building isn’t just about looks — it’s about longevity, value, and whether your contractor actually knows what they’re doing. And here in Great Bend, we’ve seen our fair share of out-of-town storm chasers making promises they can’t keep. That’s why we’re here to lay it all out: the real, unfiltered Pros and Cons of Commercial Asphalt Shingle Roofing, Great Bend style.
Let’s get into it.
What Are Asphalt Shingles and Why Are They on Commercial Buildings?
Asphalt shingles are one of the most common roofing materials used in residential buildings, but they’ve also found a solid place in the commercial world — particularly for pitched-roof properties like churches, small offices, and multifamily housing.
Made from a fiberglass base layered with asphalt and topped with mineral granules, these shingles are known for their affordability, variety, and ease of installation. But are they the right choice for your property?
Let’s break it down.
Pros of Commercial Asphalt Shingle Roofing
Let’s start with what makes asphalt shingles so appealing for many commercial properties.
Affordable and Budget-Friendly
Compared to tile, metal, or synthetic materials, asphalt shingles are far more affordable. For commercial properties managing tight budgets — especially nonprofits or multi-unit housing — they offer great performance at a cost that won’t break the bank.
At Shull Roofing, we take that even further by offering premium lines from Malarkey Roofing Products, CertainTeed, and GAF — so you get extra value without extra cost.
Fast Installation with Minimal Disruption
Time is money, especially when your building is active with residents, customers, or staff. Asphalt shingles are easier and faster to install than other materials, which means your roofing project can be completed with minimal disruption to operations.
Our team does the work the right way — climbing on your roof, inspecting thoroughly, and handling every detail to keep your project on track and stress-free.
Wide Variety of Styles and Colors
Whether you manage a historical church or a modern apartment complex, aesthetics matter. Asphalt shingles come in countless colors, shapes, and textures, allowing you to match your building’s style while maintaining function.
And with premium brands like Malarkey and CertainTeed, you can get designer looks with added performance features like algae resistance and impact protection.
Trusted Warranties
When installed by a certified contractor like Shull Roofing, asphalt shingle systems often qualify for extended warranties. Because we’re the only Malarkey Certified contractor in the area, we can offer the best warranties available — giving you added peace of mind and long-term protection.
Cons of Commercial Asphalt Shingle Roofing
No material is perfect. Here are a few things to consider before choosing asphalt shingles for your commercial project.
Shorter Lifespan Than Premium Materials
While a high-quality asphalt shingle roof can last 20 to 30 years, materials like metal or synthetic slate can last 40 years or longer. If you’re looking for ultra-long-term performance, you may want to consider other options — though they typically come with a higher upfront cost.
That said, with professional installation and regular inspections, asphalt shingles can deliver impressive longevity at a great value.
Not Meant for Flat Roofs
Asphalt shingles require a minimum pitch to perform properly. If your building has a flat or low-slope roof, shingles are not a viable option. For flat commercial roofs, you’ll want to explore systems like TPO, PVC, or coatings — though we currently specialize in pitched roofing only.
More Susceptible to Severe Storm Damage
Here in Kansas, storms are a fact of life. While impact-rated shingles offer decent resistance, asphalt is still more vulnerable than metal or tile during high-wind or hail events.
That’s where Shull Roofing has your back. We specialize in storm restoration and insurance claim assistance — helping you navigate the process from start to finish, with no high-pressure tactics or shortcuts.
Is Asphalt Shingle Roofing Right for Your Commercial Property?
Asphalt shingles are an excellent fit for many commercial properties, especially those with sloped roofs and budget-conscious owners. You might consider them if you own or manage:
- Churches
- Duplexes or multifamily homes
- Senior living centers
- Small-to-mid-sized commercial offices
They may not be the best option if your building has:
- A flat or low-slope roof
- Heavy rooftop equipment
- The need for 40–50 years of low-maintenance performance
Not sure where your building fits? That’s what we’re here for.
Why Great Bend Businesses Trust Shull Roofing
Let’s face it — roofing is a competitive industry, and not every contractor plays fair. We’ve heard the horror stories: crews that don’t show up, out-of-state sales reps who vanish after the storm, and warranties that don’t hold water.
That’s not how we operate.
Shull Roofing was founded in 2009 with one goal: raise the bar for honesty, craftsmanship, and customer care. We live in the same neighborhoods as our clients, and we take pride in knowing that when you see us in the grocery store or at the ballgame, you’ll greet us with a handshake — not a complaint.
We climb roofs. We show up. We follow through. And we never settle for “good enough.”
Ready to Make the Right Call for Your Roof?
At the end of the day, choosing a roofing material isn’t just a technical decision — it’s a trust decision. And when you’re investing in your business, church, or multifamily property, you deserve a partner who’s in it with you for the long haul.
At Shull Roofing, we don’t disappear after the install. We’re your neighbors. We answer the phone. We show up when we say we will. And we treat your building like it’s our own.
If you’re considering commercial asphalt shingle roofing in Great Bend and still have questions, let’s talk. We’ll walk your roof, explain your options, and give you a free, no-pressure estimate in 24 hours or less.
Call us at 620-282-5203
Email ryanshullremodeling@gmail.com
Your roof protects everything beneath it. Let’s make sure it’s done right.
Quick Recap: Is Asphalt Shingle Roofing Right for You?
Short on time? Here’s a summary of what you need to know:
Benefits of asphalt shingles for commercial roofs:
- Affordable upfront cost
- Fast installation and low disruption
- Attractive design options
- Strong warranties when installed by certified pros
Potential drawbacks:
- Lifespan is shorter than premium materials
- Not suitable for flat or low-slope roofs
- Can be more susceptible to storm damage
Best fit for:
- Churches
- Multifamily or senior living buildings
- Small commercial offices
Not ideal for:
- Flat or industrial roofs
- Long-term, maintenance-free performance goals
Still unsure? Reach out to Shull Roofing. We’re here to help you make the right call — no pressure, just real guidance.
