Most Popular Roofs in the Midwest

Though there are many types of roofing materials on the market today, when it comes to roofing in the Midwest, asphalt shingles are the clear favorite. This roofing material is a top choice for homeowners in Indiana, Ohio, Tennessee, and beyond, and for good reason. The Midwest is known for its extreme weather fluctuations—from hot, humid summers to freezing, snowy winters—and asphalt shingles stand up to these challenges better than most other roofing options.  

At Honest Abe Roofing, we recommend asphalt shingles for homes in the Midwest because they’re durable, affordable, and versatile.  

How Midwest Weather Affects the Most Popular Roofing Materials 

As homeowners in Ohio and the surrounding states know, the Midwest experiences some of the most dramatic weather changes in the country. In the summer, temperatures can climb above 90°F with high humidity, while winter brings freezing temperatures, snow, and ice. These constant swings between hot and cold can take a toll on your roof.  

Roofing materials expand in the heat and contract in the cold. Over time, this repeated movement can cause some materials to crack or warp. Here’s how popular roofing materials in use today hold up to these temperature changes:

Metal roofs: While durable, metal roofing can expand and contract significantly, sometimes leading to loosened panels.  

Clay or slate tiles: Roofing tiles are beautiful but brittle, and they can crack under stress from extreme temperature changes.  

Asphalt shingles: One of the reasons asphalt roofs are recommended in states like Indiana and Tennessee is because they are designed to handle these conditions. They are flexible enough to adapt to temperature changes without cracking, making them an excellent choice for the Midwest.  

Benefits of Asphalt Shingles  

There are several reasons asphalt shingles are considered the best roofing for Midwest states.

Durability  

Asphalt shingles are tough enough to withstand the elements. In the Midwest, this means standing up to:  

• Heavy snow and ice: Asphalt shingles are less likely to break under the weight of snow or ice.  
• Wind: Many asphalt shingles are rated to resist wind speeds up to 130 mph, which is ideal for areas prone to strong storms.  
• Hail: Impact-resistant shingles are available for areas that experience frequent hailstorms, like parts of Indiana and Ohio.  

Affordability  

Roofing can be expensive, and the lower cost of asphalt roofs has helped make them the most common roof type. Compared to metal or tile, they offer excellent protection at a fraction of the cost. When affordability and return on investment is a concern, asphalt shingles provide great value without sacrificing quality. And, a well-installed and maintained asphalt roof can last up to 30 years.

Ease of Installation and Maintenance  

Asphalt shingles are lightweight and easy to install, which helps keep labor costs down. If shingles become damaged—whether from a fallen branch or storm—they are simple to repair or replace. Honest Abe Roofing crews can quickly handle repairs, so your home stays protected year-round.  

Energy Efficiency  

Modern asphalt shingles are designed with reflective properties that help keep homes cooler in the summer. This is particularly useful in states in the Midwest, where summers can be long and hot. Keeping your home cooler also helps lower energy bills, which is a big win for homeowners. 

Versatility in Appearance  

Asphalt shingles come in a wide range of colors and styles, so you can choose a look that fits your home. Whether you live in a historic neighborhood in Ohio or a suburban community in Indiana, asphalt shingles can match the aesthetic you want.  

Sustainable Roofing Options  

Today’s asphalt shingles are not just practical—they are also eco-friendly. Many shingles are now made from recycled materials, and they can often be recycled at the end of their lifespan. Choosing a sustainable roofing option is another way to protect your home while caring for the environment.  

Why Honest Abe Roofing Recommends Asphalt Shingles  

Honest Abe Roofing has been serving homeowners in the Midwest for years. We have seen firsthand how well asphalt shingles perform in Indiana, Ohio, Tennessee, and other nearby states. In fact, asphalt roofs are our specialty. Here is why we often recommend them:  

Adaptable to Midwest Weather  

Asphalt shingles are reliable through the Midwest’s hot summers and cold winters. For example, in Indiana, where July temperatures average in the mid-80s and January lows can drop into the teens, asphalt shingles provide year-round protection.  

Trusted by Midwest Homeowners  

In a region where homeowners often deal with heavy snow and freezing rain, asphalt shingles are a popular choice because of their ability to shed water and ice. At the same time, asphalt shingles have proven heat resistance during long summers. And, choosing an asphalt roof is a budget-friendly option. 

Backed by Warranties  

Honest Abe Roofing offers industry-leading warranties on asphalt shingles, so you can feel confident in your investment. Whether you are replacing an old roof or building a new home, our shingles are a long-lasting solution.  

Honest Abe Roofing: Your Trusted Midwest Roofer 

Honest Abe Roofing offers several types of asphalt roofing products in multiple style and color options, all backed by the industry’s best guarantees:

• Strip shingles – These shingles are made with only one layer, making them the lightest-weight shingles available.
• Dimensional shingles – These multi-layered shingles offer a multi-dimensional aesthetic to any home and typically last longer than the strip shingles.
• Architectural shingles – These laminated shingles typically have the highest level of resistance and durability and come in customizable shapes.
• Polymer modified shingles –  These are asphalt shingles enforced with a special polymer that makes them even more resistant to extreme temperatures than traditional shingles. 

If your roof is showing signs of wear—or if you are building a new home—consider asphalt shingles. They’re the perfect match for the Midwest’s challenging climate, offering durability, affordability, and style.  

Contact Honest Abe Roofing today to learn more about our asphalt shingles and to schedule your free roofing consultation.