Most residential homes use asphalt roofing shingles. They are a popular choice because of the many styles and colors available. They are not only affordable, but also provide the protection your home needs while giving your home curb appeal. If you are planning to replace your roof anytime soon, here are the things you need to know so you can make an informed selection.
Fiberglass and Organic
Asphalt roofing shingles come in two types: organic and fiberglass.
- Organic shingles are based on waste paper saturated with asphalt to make it waterproof, with coatings of adhesive salt and ceramic granules embedded on top.
- Fiberglass shingles are made with a base layer of glass fiber reinforcing mat. This mat is coated with asphalt, which contains mineral fillers and makes the shingle waterproof.
While organic shingles are more durable than fiberglass, they are more flammable and hence more prone to fire. They are less environmentally-friendly due to their high asphalt (oil based) content.
Fiberglass shingles offer excellent fire protection. Today, fiberglass shingles are more commonly used and are slowly, but surely, replacing the organic shingles.
Cost and Warranties
Asphalt roofing shingles are one of the least expensive roofing materials you can select for your home. With a general lifespan of 15-18 years, asphalt shingles are the most affordable option in the short term. If you’re looking for a decent level of protection along with cost effective value, then this is the route to choose.
You also want to look into the warranties provided with these shingles. A solid warranty will mean that the cost and affordability become even greater value to you.
Styles and Color
More affordable doesn’t necessarily mean boring. With many styles to choose from, you can give your home a varied look, whether you have a contemporary or traditional style home.
There are three categories of asphalt shingles based on their characteristics and pricing.
- Three-tab shingles have cutouts along their lower edge, making each shingle look like three separate pieces once installed. These have been around the longest and are still the most economical and popular shingle.
- Architectural shingles have no cutouts but their lower portions have an additional asphalt layer, giving them the contoured, dimensional look.
- Luxury shingles have the appearance of authentic slate tiles and are thicker than architectural or laminated shingles. Premium asphalt shingles cost more than standard shingle types like organic asphalt, fiberglass, 3-tab and architectural shingles.
Asphalt shingles are now very versatile in look, making them hard to distinguish from slate, wood shakes or tile. The higher-end shingles can give your home the look it needs to complement its style while providing the durability and protection you need from the elements.
Color choices are more extensive today, giving you even more options depending on the style of your home. You can find all shades of gray, but also brown, beige, blue and green. Work with your professional roofer to help you choose the best options for your home.
Ease of Installation
The great thing about asphalt shingles is the relative ease of installation. Any roofing contractor with experience and proper training can install these shingles correctly. Just remember that your roof is a system, not just a layer of shingles. Be sure to research your roofing contractor to be sure they install the complete roofing system so that your home is protected.
Looking to install new asphalt roofing shingles on your home?
By understanding the various aspects of asphalt roofing shingles, you can decide what you want in style, color, durability, cost and ease of maintenance. For more information on roofing shingles and how to choose the right ones for your home, contact All Weather Tite Roofing in Port Charlotte, Florida.