Asphalt Shingle Roofing

Asphalt shingles are the most common type of roof used on residential homes. Believe it or not, an asphalt shingle roof system is not made of asphalt all the way through. Instead, it is made from fiberglass that creates strength and tear resistance. The fortified hot asphalt goes through a strengthening process where it is oxidized by blowing hot air through it to increase its viscosity and firm up the material. It is then bonded to the top and bottom of the mat layer to create a waterproof barrier. Lastly, crushed and screened granules are embedded into the top layer of asphalt, providing a layer of protection from heat damage, UV rays, and degradation, all the while giving the shingle color and shading that is seen. 

Types of asphalt shingles

There are three types of asphalt shingles to choose from: 3-tab, dimensional, and luxury. The 3-tab asphalt shingles lay flat and get their name from the three tabs on each shingle strip. Dimensional shingles provide a random pattern or imitate the look of a wood shake roof. Lastly, luxury shingles are bigger than the other types of asphalt shingles and are designed to look like slate. 3-tab shingles previously dominated the market; however, dimensional shingles are not the most common type installed on residential roofs today. 

An asphalt roof is more than just the shingles that can be seen from the street. It is a mixture of a variety of crucial roofing components and materials to make sure a house stays leak-free. The main materials and components that create an asphalt roof are roof decking and flashing, underlayment, drip edge, ice and water shield, shingles, ridge capping, roof vents, and pipe boots. These components are vital to make sure the roof protects its homeowners and their loved ones. 

It is always nice to know how long a product will last, including an asphalt roof. The lifespan of an asphalt roof depends on the type of asphalt shingles being used. Each type has a specified lifespan from the manufacturer. 3-tab shingles have a lifespan of 25 years, whereas dimensional and luxury shingles have a lifespan of 30 years. However, luxury shingles do have the possibility of lasting over 30 years and up to 50 under the right conditions. It is common to wonder if an asphalt roof will actually live as long as the manufacturer says it will. If it is installed correctly and the attic is adequately ventilated, the asphalt roof will get as close as possible to the specified lifespan. Therefore, homeowners should get around 80-85% of the lifespan out of an asphalt roof.

Considering the roofing professionals

Local roofing professionals can help homeowners pick out the right shingles for their budget and their home’s design. It does not matter which option a homeowner chooses, asphalt shingles will do a great job of protecting their roof while looking aesthetically pleasing at the same time. A well-designed shingle roofing system provides the opportunity to improve a home’s curb appeal, lower utility costs, and protect the structural integrity of the home