Everything You Need to Know About Asphalt Shingles
What Are Asphalt Shingles?
Asphalt shingles are composed of three layers: the base mat, asphalt, and mineral granules. The base mat is the foundation of the shingle and is made of either organic materials (wood, cellulose) or fiberglass. Fiberglass is more common today due to its superior durability and fire resistance. The next part of the shingle is a sticky, black, and highly viscous liquid or semi-solid form of petroleum. Mineral granules are added on top of the asphalt-coated base mat for UV protection, color, and aesthetic appeal.
Types of Asphalt Shingles:
Three-Tab Shingles: These shingles have a simple, flat appearance with three tabs per strip. On the positive side, they are the most affordable shingle while being the easiest to install. With this, they are the least durable with the shortest lifespan of around 15-20 years.
Architectural (Dimensional) Shingles: These shingles have a thicker, multi-layered design for a more textured and dimensional look. They are more durable than the three-tab shingle, providing a longer lifespan of around 25-30 years and better aesthetic appeal. Because of this, they come at a higher cost.
Luxury (Designer) Shingles: These shingles have a high-end appearance, mimicking slate or cedar shake to create a premium look. They are very durable with a high lifespan of up to 50 years. To achieve the high-end look with increased durability, the price climbs with luxury shingles.
Benefits of Asphalt Shingles:
Affordability: Asphalt shingles are relatively inexpensive compared to other roofing materials like metal, slate, or tile. This makes them a desirable option for homeowners looking for a budget-friendly roofing solution. Asphalt shingles also have lower installation costs because of the ease of installation in contrast to other roofing solutions. The shingles themselves are relatively lightweight, reducing the need for additional structural support. Because of their straightforward installation process, there is less disruption to the homeowners making them more desirable. Due to their light weight and ease of installation, you will commonly find asphalt shingles having lower labor costs contributing to an overall cheaper roofing option.
Versatility: Asphalt shingles come in a variety of styles, colors, and textures, allowing homeowners to choose a look that complements their home’s architecture and personal taste. They can be used on a wide range of roof shapes and pitches, making them suitable for almost any residential roofing project.
Durability: Asphalt shingles are designed to withstand various weather conditions, including wind, rain, snow, and hail. They are also resistant to algae and mildew, which can be a problem in humid climates, but not algae and mildew proof. Additionally, the granules within the shingles protect the asphalt from UV radiation, which helps prevent deterioration and extends the life of the roof.
Repairability: Another benefit of asphalt shingles is how easy they are to repair. If a shingle is damaged, it can often be repaired or replaced individually without having to replace the entire roof. This makes maintenance more manageable and cost-effective.
Energy Efficiency: some asphalt shingles come with reflective coatings that can reduce heat absorption. This helps keep homes cooler in hot climates, potentially lowering energy costs associated with air conditioning.
Asphalt shingles offer a well-rounded package of benefits, making them an excellent choice for many homeowners. Their affordability, ease of installation, versatility, durability, and ease of repair contribute to their popularity. Additionally, their potential for energy efficiency and recyclability add to their appeal as a sustainable roofing option. By understanding these benefits, homeowners can make an informed decision when selecting roofing materials for their home. If interested in seeing what shingle color would best fit your house, check out this blog post! For more information or to schedule your FREE estimate, call (513) 731-ROOF!