What Are Asphalt Roof Shingles?
Asphalt Roof Shingles are the most commonly used shingles when it comes to roofing homes. These types of shingles are first manufactured using a layer of fiberglass making a “mat” to which then a specially formulated layer of hot asphalt mix is then bonded to both sides of the fiberglass. To top it off, small, granulated stone is added to the shingle to give it more durability and to give it the desired color. This process makes for an extremely durable shingle that is made to last and to protect your home for many years.
Why Choose Asphalt Roof Shingles?
Asphalt shingles can be an affordable way to cover your home with protection from rain and weather elements. When installed properly, a complete shingle roof system will improve the value of your home.
- Attic insulation
- Roof decking
- Ventilation system
- Ice & water barriers
- Underlayment
- Starter shingles
- Roof shingles
- Hip & ridge shingles
- Gutter / drainage system
Three Types of Asphalt Shingles
3-Tab Roof Shingles
The most commonly purchased and installed shingles are the 3-tab roof shingles. These can be identified by their standard rectangle shape. These shingles are typically used as a budget option and will typically only be seen in residential roofing systems. While these are considered a budget option, they are considered to be the most basic shingle option.
Architectural Roof Shingles
Considered to be the next step up from the basic 3-tab shingle, Architectural shingles are made to be more durable and longer lasting than typical 3-tab shingles. Not only will they serve your home for a longer period of time, but they are also manufactured in many different styles and colors to suit the needs of your home. Typically, homeowners will choose this option because they can get the look of other styles (wood shake, slate, or tile) without the cost of those types of roofing systems. This option will also be found in most commercial roofing systems because of its prolonged life and higher-end look.
Designer Roof Shingles
As roof shingles have developed there have been many upgrades to the standard roofing shingle. Designer roof shingles take the same material of Architectural and 3-Tab shingles and craft them to be like many other types of roofing systems. Homeowners as well as commercial property owners will go this route because it provides the ability to match any style of home or building. When you have a one-of-a-kind home, you would not want to install generic shingles, and this is where designer roofing shingles come into play.
50-Year Roofing Shingles
When it comes to the “best” shingles, 50-year shingles are the way to go. Homeowners who choose this option want the longer lifetime of their roofing system, so they do not have to think about it for years. This also adds great value to a home because of its extended lifetime. The most important aspect of 50-year shingles is the installation. If not installed properly, they will not hold up to water, wind, and other elements.
