Everything You Need To Know About An Asphalt Shingle Roof

If you plan to restore your roofing, you may be thinking, what type of shingles is perfect for you? The most common shingles available today are asphalt shingles—these are renowned for their versatility, durability, and low expense. It is no wonder they are the chosen roofing material of many roofing contractors and roofing companies like us, homeowners, and real estate companies in North America.

Suppose you've narrowed down your search to asphalt roofing shingles. In that case, there are many different shingles to select from for a new roof installation. 

So, in this article, we will summarize the different kinds of asphalt shingle roofs and their benefits.

What Are Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles cover the roofing system and roof deck to keep them safe and sound from water. Asphalt shingles are the most common shingles to keep your roof protected, especially if you live in North America. An asphalt shingle derived its name from the asphalt utilized to make the shingles resistant to moisture or water.

Asphalt shingles have three critical layers such as:

Asphalt Sealant

The sealant coats the matting to create water-resistant shingles and works as a paste.

Ceramic Granules

Utilize to stick asphalt layer as well as provide asphalt with its original texture as well as a variety of colours while securing the other layers simultaneously from ultra-violet ray

Matting

The matting acts as the foundation material for the shingle.

There are many different asphalt shingles, like ones made with fibreglass and organic mat. The matting is made from cellulose fibre like recycled paper, felt, and wood in an organic shingle. A more modern type of asphalt shingle is the fibreglass shingles.

We highly recommend a fibreglass asphalt shingle roof these days as they are longer-lasting and hold up to extreme weather better than an organic shingle.

An organic shingle is more susceptible to warping and algae development from the moisture, which will need to be replaced. Due to this, the making of most organic shingles ended in 2008.

Kinds Of Asphalt Shingle Roofs

With the array of asphalt shingle roofing choices, homeowners can obtain an exceptional appearance on the property without spending a lot. We at Gerry's Roofing will give you the popular types of asphalt shingle roofing that roofers can install in your homes.

Three-Tab Asphalt Shingles

Today, this is the most popular shingle option classified by the cutouts to look like three individual pieces. They are lightweight, affordable, simple to maintain, energy-efficient, and last for almost two decades.

Three-tab shingles or popularly called strip shingles, are the primary forms of asphalt shingles. This type of shingle is intended to make it appear like three individual pieces are set up, therefore the name. However, it is just a single piece of material that is cut to look like there are three asphalt shingles.

This type of shingle has remained the most accepted material for Gerry's Roofing as it is cost-efficient, creates a simple and uniform look, and can be installed quickly. However, the drawback to three-tab shingles is the limited aesthetic options. They can potentially blow off easier than other types of asphalt shingles.

Architectural Asphalt Shingles

Dimensional shingles, popularly known as architectural asphalt shingles, are becoming popular, particularly for lavish properties. Some are called laminate shingles; this asphalt shingle comes in various sizes and shapes to provide your roofing with a more attractive and exciting dimensional appearance. There's more diversity in the styles and colours of architectural shingles that boost the curb appeal of your home or property.

This kind of roofing is costlier than the three-tab shingles. Still, they are more stylish and aesthetically pleasing and have a solid warranty. The multi-layer construction of this asphalt shingle makes it more wind-resistant and durable.

Premium Asphalt Shingles

Apart from the standard architectural shingles roofing, you can set up premium architectural shingles. This kind of shingle is usually made to resemble more conventional roofing materials like cedar shakes or slate tiles. Utilizing premium luxury shingles enables you to acquire a more striking look while taking benefit of the toughness and sturdiness of an asphalt shingle roof. Going with premium asphalt shingles is energy efficient, so they can assist in keeping your home cooler and reduce your monthly power bills.

As the name suggests, these types of shingles are more costly. But as we know, you get what you pay for, and these tend to be more durable. They hold up better to storms, so there is no need to replace them as often.

Fibreglass Shingles

This type of asphalt shingle is made with a mixture of woven fibreglass as the foundation, ceramic granules, and asphalt coating on top; these components make a UV protectant and waterproof shingle while being very thin and lightweight because of its low amounts of asphalt present. Most asphalt shingle tiles are now being made with a fibreglass base since it makes for such a durable roof material on a budget.

Organic Mat-Based Shingles

If you are an eco-friendly person, then this one is for you. The base of this type of shingle roofing is made of a recycled felt paper layer. This is thicker, heavier, and a bit pricier than a fibreglass shingle counterpart.

The Benefits Of Using Asphalt Shingle Roofs

There are a lot of factors that make these shingles the most popular option for home roofing. Below are some of the perks you can get from using asphalt shingle roofs.

• Affordability We highly recommend this material because of its affordability. The price of an asphalt shingle is lower than most other roofing types. Even the premium ones will still give on budget homeowners the best bang for their buck. With proper setup and regular maintenance, this will last for many years, saving you a considerable amount of money.
• Colour Variety After price, a great thing about asphalt shingle roofing is that they are available in different colours. You can choose from neutral colours like brown and shade of grey to statement-making hues like polychromatic and blue. It depends on how you are willing to spend; you have the option of setting up this kind of roofing that perfectly emulates slate or wood.
• Fast and Simple Installation Process Installation and repair of an asphalt shingle are simple and easy since new shingles can be set up on top of current ones, assuming that there are not more than two layers below already and that the roof deck is in good condition. It is still highly recommended to remove all old asphalt shingles first to be able to inspect the deck below. 

What Sets Asphalt Shingles Apart From Other Types Of Roof Shingles?

Affordability and durability are what set this shingle apart from the rest. This shingle is now made with many layers of asphalt and fibre, making it more resistant to algae and weather.

The components utilized in asphalt shingle roofing extend its lifespan, meaning you should be able to count on the roof lasting about two decades. Also, this type of shingle has an improved fire rating that can provide you with the peace of mind that the roofing is safe and secure. Still, you must regularly inspect your roofing or call an expert to ensure that your roofing is in good shape. Routine inspection will assist in avoiding issues like leaking.

While metal and tile roofs are durable, many homeowners are likely to choose the design and look of asphalt shingles. The mixture of the price, appearance and rugged style has provided this shingle with an edge over other types of roofing.

How To Know The Right Kinds Of Asphalt Shingles Ideal For You

For many homes, the best type of asphalt shingle for you is the architectural shingle. Even if the cost is slightly higher than other asphalt shingles available, it will last many years. It will not have to be replaced as often, which saves you a considerable amount of money in due course. What is more, this material provides your roof with an elevated appearance without the need to give out a lot of money.

Asphalt shingles are very popular for roof installations and roof replacements because of the affordable price. Regardless of which one you choose, premium, architectural or 3-tab, asphalt shingles do a fantastic job securing the roof while still looking great.

Roof installers can assist you in picking the best asphalt shingles for your budget and your home style. It is good to get a few quotes from different roofing companies so you feel comfortable hiring the right one for your needs and budget. Once you choose your roofing contractor, all you need to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy the new roof once it's completed.

How Long Does An Asphalt Shingle Roof Last?

Depending on the shingle style you're going with, the warranty and avg life expectancy will vary.

• Three-tab Shingles can last up to 20-25 years, depending on the exact shingle you select. They also have a limited lifetime warranty. Other benefits include wind ratings of 60mph and a class A fire rating.
• Architectural Shingles also have a limited lifetime warranty. They come with iron-clad protection of 15 years and can last slightly longer than three-tab shingles if well maintained. They have built-in algae resistance, high wind warranty of 177km and excellent core strength. 

Even if the manufacturer states these numbers, will this kind of roof really last that long? Provided that it is correctly installed and the proper ventilation is provided, it will survive for many years, as the manufacturers stated.

How To Make The Most Out Of Your Asphalt Roof: Maintenance Needed

Your car needs regular oil changes to be properly maintained. Your roof should also undergo routine maintenance and inspection.

It doesn't matter if it is once or twice per year; regular maintenance makes sure you maximize the lifespan of the shingle roof. It will catch any issues with the asphalt shingles and avoid future leaks. It's better to catch any problems as quickly as possible to avoid more severe damage.

Also, it is a chance to clear the gutters and roof from debris. Wet debris staying on the asphalt will shorten the duration of the shingles. So, it is crucial to keep the roof running efficiently all through its life with proper roof maintenance. 

When Is The Right Time To Replace The Asphalt Roofing?

If you see any of the problems mentioned below, you should call an expert roofing company for repairs immediately: 

• One or many missing shingles 
• There are ceramic granules present in gutters
• Lost the shape of the shingles and seemed lifted or elevated 
• Buckles, curled as well as cracked shingles 

Planning to install a new roof is a considerable undertaking. Remember the house structure and the weather conditions of your area before choosing the asphalt shingles that best your requirements. 

We have over 40 years of installing all different styles of asphalt shingle roofs and making customers happy. 

It's by far the most popular type of roof people choose. We know asphalt shingles! We're experts in everything about them, so if you're looking at going with this roof for your next roof replacement, reach out to us as we'd love to talk options with you. 

We offer free estimates, so you have nothing to lose by giving us a shot. Our stellar reputation in the community will also put your mind at ease, knowing we will do the work to the highest standards in the industry.