Are Asphalt Shingles Good?

oofing contractor. roofing construction and building new house with modular chimney, skylights, attic  exterior. roofers install, repair asphalt shingles or bitumen tiles on the rooftop outdoor

Learn More About Asphalt Shingles

Your roof is an important final cover that provides protection and a chic final look to your property. There are many materials that can be used to cover a property from metal to clay yet perhaps the most known got-to materials for most US neighborhoods are with asphalt shingles. Asphalt shingles are a reliable tried and true source of roofing materials that provide no-fuss basic protection with affordable price points and easy maintenance. There are even premium options that have been developed over the years for more range in size, texture, and color so speak to your local roofing company today to learn more. Until then, here is some general background information concerning asphalt shingles that may prove useful to you.

How long do asphalt shingles last?

Asphalt shingles are known to last from 15-25 years depending on proper initial installations and weather patterns. The materials that are used also alter the life span of the roof as according to the NAHB fiber cement shingles are seen to last about 25 years and asphalt/composition shingles about 20.

Are Fiberglass shingles better than asphalt?

FIberglass can be used as the base materials for asphalt shingles yet typically asphalt shingles use a paper base. Fiberglass is the better option to use for many as they hold more water and fire resistance and will work better in hotter climates.

What is the difference between architectural shingles and asphalt shingles?

Asphalt shingles typically come in a three-tab variety which has the appearance of three shingles side by side when really there is one long strip of materials and tabs separated 12 inches wide. These shingles typically have a layer of materials with a fiberglass base. With architectural shingles, you’ll have more layers of material with a wider range of options in size, color, and shape.

Are there different grades of asphalt shingles?

There are indeed different grades of asphalt shingles with three tabs shingles being the standard option and architectural shingles being the premium option. There are also other shingles that have been made to tackle inclement weather as seen with impact-resistant shingles that protect against hail and high winds. 

What are the longest lasting roof shingles?

The longest-lasting roofing shingles are laminated shingles that typically come with a lifetime warranty. Ther are two categories that it falls under such as dimensional shingles with the standard architectural shingle variety, and luxury shingles which can mimic the appearance of slate or wood shakes.

Side Angle of Roof line of a house with gabels

What is the best asphalt shingle?

  • Atlas. Pinnacle Pristine.
  • GAF-Elk. Royal Sovereign.
  • CertainTeed. XT 25.
  • Atlas. StormMaster Slate.
  • Tamko. Heritage.
  • Owens Corning. Oakridge.
  • Owens Corning. Duration.
  • Owens Corning. Berkshire Collection.

Which is better light or dark roof shingles?

Essentially the idea of using lighter colored materials is that they will be able to deflect heat and keep temperatures of the overall building lower. This can help with maintaining proper building temperatures and therefore help HVAC systems maintain their energy. However, naturally reflective roofing materials or adding reflective coatings are necessary to achieve this and those will be found with more premium roofing materials. On the flip side, darker roofing materials will absorb heat which can instead be great for colder climates. They will also help with snow and ice melting off of roofs faster.

How hot does it need to be for shingles to seal?

In order for asphalt shingles to seal well, it needs to be around 70℉ of ambient temperature. That’s why roofing projects with certain materials are usually done in warmer temperatures and are not done as much in the wintertime.

Is it better to remove old shingles?

If there are any areas of the roof that have been damaged from punctures of water infiltration it will be better to remove older materials and start with fresh ones. Additionally, if there are any loose shingles remove those as well before applying a new layer of 30-pound roofing felt.

Is it OK to shingle over old shingles?

It is permissible by many municipalities to have two layers of roofing and with some, you may even have three layers. However, adding new roofing materials over old ones is typically only possible with asphalt shingles as the base materials.

Reach Out to Your Local Roofer Regarding Asphalt Shingles

If you’re interested in asphalt shingles make sure to get into contact with your local roofing company for more assistance. A professional roofer will be able to inspect your roof and determine which type of roofing material would match the best with your property’s specifications as well as climate. Asphalt shingles are a great choice to incorporate into your roofing system for standard protection and a clean, attractive roof. Get in touch with your roofer today for more information.

If you’re interested in asphalt shingles in Tallahassee, FL call (850) 566-6504 with Folsom Roofing!