Asphalt shingles are one of the most widely used roofing materials, providing an elegant yet effective look for homes while also being economical and easy to install. Here is what makes these shingles stand out from other roofing materials.
Benefits of Asphalt Shingles
One of the main reasons why asphalt roof shingles are so popular is their affordability: Typically, asphalt shingles are less expensive than metal, slate, wood shakes, and tile. They're also easy for professional contractors to install, which reduces project time and labor costs.
Since asphalt shingle roofs are versatile, they are used across the country. An asphalt shingle is composed of a fiberglass layer coated with asphalt, which gives it its water-shedding properties. Granules are added to help protect against UV rays. These qualities mean asphalt shingles can protect your property against a wide variety of elements: wind, snow, rain—and even sunshine.
Asphalt shingle roofs can even help keep roof noise low during rainstorms. Many of them also have a UL Class A fire rating, the best rating possible. And some asphalt shingles—known as "cool" asphalt shingles—are highly reflective and may help reduce the heat absorbed into the roof by reflecting the sun's rays.
Composition roofs (as asphalt-shingle roofs are also known) come in many different colors. While homeowners can choose among many traditional blacks and browns, other options are available, including gray, red, and blue. You can also choose from various styles and textures. These qualities allow for an immense versatility of design that most other roof materials can't match.
Asphalt Shingle Types
There are three main types of asphalt shingles—3-tab, dimensional, and luxury—allowing you the flexibility to choose the right type of shingle based on your home and budget:
- 3-tab shingles are the most economical. They get their name from the three-tab design that connects with the others to create a flat appearance.
- Dimensional shingles, also known as architectural shingles, are constructed from multiple layers of fiberglass which are laminated together to create a dimensional appearance.
- Designer shingles are the most expensive option. They're manufactured to look like high-end materials, such as slate which gives them an elegant and sophisticated look without requiring the roof to support the weight of actual slate. The downside is that the cost of a Designer Shingle roof can be considerably higher than the cost of the other types of asphalt shingle roofs.
How Long Do Asphalt Shingles Last?
There are a variety of factors that determine how long asphalt shingle roofs last. This includes the frequency and significance of maintenance performed, the types of shingles you use, and the weather conditions in the area.
If your home needs a new roof or a replacement, contact a professional contractor you can count on who will make sure you get the best shingles for your home's needs.
