Many homeowners desire to get a reliably durable, affordable, and aesthetically-pleasing type of roofing. There are many materials that can be used to manufacture a roof to create the desired aesthetics, but asphalt shingles have been voted the top option by experts. Asphalt shingles are constructed with a hot-melt adhesive which gives them their ability to hold up in intense weather conditions while staying firmly affixed over time.
Here is what you need to know about these four kinds of asphalt roof shingles:
Organic Shingle Roofs
Organic shingles are one of the most durable and effective roofing types available. These shingles have been created out of materials produced in nature by their very name. While some manufacturers claim to use reclaimed or recycled materials in their shingle products, others use wood fiber, wood chips, or natural fibers, which can be easily biodegraded over time. That means there will be minimum effects on your environment while protecting against sunlight and heat.
3-Tab Shingles
These roofing shingles use recycled materials, but they are made of polymers that are highly resistant to heat and sunlight. Although many types are available, this is the most common type of asphalt shingle. It has been priced competitively with other asphalt shingles and is generally easier to install. It has a lifespan of about 20 years.
Architectural Shingles
These shingles have a natural look but are not organic and do not last as long as organic shingles. You can use it in numerous styles and colors to give your home an attractive aesthetic feel while promoting longevity and sustainability.
Duplex Shingles
The most commonly used type of asphalt shingle, depending on your preference. Duplex shingles are slightly more expensive than the other types listed above because they have a smooth surface but can come with a premium price tag for durability, beauty, and economic benefits.
Choosing the best type of asphalt shingles
Take a look at the type of roofing material you already have
With the options for asphalt shingles, you want to watch how your current roofing performs. If your current type of shingle is noticeably damaged or looks like it needs to be replaced, that may be the reason. Before you start shopping, take a good look at your present roofing and determine if it will work with your new asphalt siding purchase. If critical features of your existing shingle are not compatible with the siding product you are looking at, there is no point in getting started with asphalt shingles.
Consider your climate
When picking an asphalt roofing shingle, you should consider your area’s climatic conditions. Do you live in a harsh southwest region that experiences wet weather every day? That could be the perfect mix for a higher-quality product. A more cold and dry environment may not need this quality built into the product. If you live in a southern part of the country, where it does not have to deal with extreme temperatures, you can save money by going with less expensive asphalt shingles that do not cost as much to maintain or use.
Consider period you will live in your home.
While it is true that asphalt siding can last for decades, you do want to keep an eye on how long you plan to be in the house. Many homes are covered with asphalt shingles as soon as they are built, but if your family plans to stay in the home for more than a few years, consider the maintenance required by the product. Some asphalt shingles may have additional maintenance requirements when it comes time to renew the roofing once it gets older. Due to the potential need for more frequent maintenance, you may want to go with a different type of roofing material.
Find a company you feel comfortable with
There are a lot of companies out there that offer asphalt shingles and installers in your area, but you want to find one company that is easy to work with and has good phone support. Some companies have pricing structures that make it hard to figure out their total costs, so talking with a sales representative or customer service representative may be necessary. You also want to ensure they have a good warranty or guarantee on the product or installation. You do not want to be stuck with a shingle that keeps falling apart, and you do not want to be out thousands of dollars because your roofing company did not carry through on its promises.
Asphalt Shingle Colors
When it comes to asphalt shingles, the color can make a big difference in the overall look of your home. Take a good look at all the available colors to ensure you have picked one that you like. Some are rather subtle and understated, while others are bold and vibrant shades that can catch attention. Not only do you want to pick a color that fits with the style of your home, but you also want something that will stand out and make an impact.
Advantages of Installing Asphalt Roofing Shingles
Durability
Asphalt shingles have been known to last at least 20 years if maintained well and in the right climate conditions. Not only are they made to endure, but if any shingles are damaged or missing in the interim years, they can be replaced by new ones. According to the Technonicol company, various factors can affect their longevity, such as the roof’s pitch and direction of exposure.
Wind Resistance
If a storm comes along and threatens to blow your shingles away or entirely off the roof, the asphalt/vinyl combination will stand firm against wind gusts rising upwards of 110 miles per hour. You might feel confident regarding their ability to protect your house from high winds in areas prone to hurricanes, tornadoes, and hail storms.
Heat Resistance
If your friends and family have experienced the oppressive heat of a hot summer day in the South, you will know how unbearable it can be to stand beneath a heavy piece of wood or slate tile directly above the rooftop. There is no need to worry about burning anyone on asphalt shingles, even if the temperature rises above 110 degrees Fahrenheit. If a fire does break out on your roof, it will not spread as quickly as it would with an organic or composite roof.
Waterproofing
Capped with strong granules but lightweight enough to breathe, water will not accumulate on asphalt shingles as it might from other materials. They are also commonly installed with a warm-moisture barrier which repels water and leaves your roof with a superior finish that will last years longer than other roofs.
Low Maintenance
Asphalt shingles don’t need to be painted or stained to preserve their natural look. They are also known for staying clean and shiny without any protective coatings. A roof flat on top of your house can be the best defense against humidity, rainfall, snow, and occasional splatters of animal urine.
When choosing between standard asphalt shingles or other types such as architectural patterns, you should also look at options such as stitched shingles and custom colors and designs for your home. In reality, asphalt shingles have come a long way over the past few years and have become one of the most popular roofing options for homes. They are low maintenance and design-friendly products that provide many benefits rather than drawbacks.
