Varieties of Asphalt Shingles

There are two varieties of asphalt shingles – fiberglass and organic. First ones are made of a fiberglass base mat and covered with a layer of waterproof coating. Also, these shingles have ceramic granules on top that protect them from UV rays. They are light weight and thin as less asphalt is used to give them durability and strength. Also, fiberglass shingles are more fire-resistant than organic varieties. Another great thing about them is that they have a longer warranty, and are not as expensive as other roofing materials. Although they were developed in the 1980s, they are the favorite material of most roofing contractors and homeowners today. Organic shingles are made from recycled felt paper, and they are asphalt-saturated as it makes them waterproof. The top layer of these shingles contains adhesive asphalt with ceramic granules embedded. Organic shingles contain 40% more asphalt compared to fiberglass ones, and it is no wonder they are thicker, heavier, and more expensive. They are more flexible than fiberglass shingles, but also prone to saturation and moisture, and can deform over time. Organic shingles are not a wise idea for people who live in areas with high humidity and freezing temperatures.

Types of shingles

No matter if they are fiberglass or organic, asphalt shingles are usually manufactured in two different types. The first type includes three-tab shingles. They are thin and affordable. Also, they have cutouts that are made along their bottom edge. As a result, one shingle looks like three separate pieces when installed, hence the name. Three-tab shingles are the most popular and widely used shingles. On the other hand, architectural shingles don’t contain cutouts. However, their lower parts have an additional layer of asphalt, which creates the dimensional, contoured appearance. Their layers are bind by asphalt sealant, which reinforces their waterproof capability. Since architectural shingles contain more asphalt, they are more expensive than three-tab shingles.

Pros of asphalt shingles

One of the benefits of asphalt shingles is that they are quite easy to install. Also, they are cheaper than other roofing materials. If you are looking for an economical substance for your roof, asphalt shingles are an ideal choice. Most individuals can’t afford to spend a significant amount of money on a new roof, and that’s why they choose asphalt shingles. Other people think that it is not necessary to waste money on a more expensive roofing material. Another advantage of asphalt shingles is that they have a long lifespan. On average, they last between 20 and 30 years. Also, if you choose this material for your roof, you will be able to pick from a wide variety of colors. The final benefit is that they can be recycled, and used for paving. If you are thinking about using asphalt shingles for your roof, you can contact The Home Wise Pros from Rockville.

Cons of asphalt shingles

A downside of asphalt shingles is that they can decay with sudden weather changes. If you live in an area with sudden climate changes, you should avoid asphalt shingles. Also, you shouldn’t install them under the severe cold weather. They don’t require high maintenance, but you should maintain them periodically. Additionally, sometimes the wind can create uplift upon the shingles. The final disadvantage is that asphalt shingles are not eco-friendly, as they are made out of petroleum.