Top Benefits & Features of Asphalt Shingles

If you're looking to ensure your roof can withstand the elements and remain reliable for years to come, asphalt shingles are a topic you should be well-versed in. As a leading choice for home builders and homeowners alike, these versatile roofing materials offer numerous benefits. This in-depth guide will explore the intricacies surrounding asphalt shingles to keep you informed.

Diving Into Asphalt Shingles: Their Definition and Purpose

Asphalt shingles are roofing materials that consist of a fiberglass or paper backing soaked with asphalt. They are then covered with tiny, granulated minerals. Their core objective is to create a durable and resistant exterior layer that safeguards your home from environmental elements.

Different Types of Asphalt Shingles

Primarily, there are two categories of asphalt shingles:

• Three-Tab Shingles: These are uniform asphalt shingles that have a traditional appearance. They are lightweight and cheaper than the architectural variant.
• Architectural Shingles: Architectural asphalt shingles, alternatively known as dimensional shingles, have a multi-dimensional appearance. They are heavier, durable, and built from top-quality materials, hence more expensive.

The Durability Aspect of Asphalt Shingles

One of the most significant benefits of choosing asphalt shingles is their exceptional durability. With the correct installation and maintenance procedure, both three-tab and architectural asphalt shingles can serve your household for an extended period. Three-tab shingles can last up to 20 years, while architectural shingles promise an impressive lifespan of 30 to 50 years.

Asphalt Shingles Coloring and Style Choices

Asphalt shingles have gained immense popularity due to their wide range of colors and styles that cater to various homeowner preferences. They come in an extensive spectrum, from traditional shades to vibrant ones. Whether you prefer a rustic charm with wood-themed shingles, a modern gloss with grey tones, or a classical appeal with brown shades, asphalt shingles got you covered.

The Installation Process of Asphalt Shingles

Correct installation of asphalt shingles plays a pivotal role in their performance and lifespan. It typically includes:

1. Preparing the roof by removing the old materials and repairing any damages
2. Laying down roofing felt to create a solid base
3. Applying shingles from the bottom upwards, with proper alignments and overlaps
4. Cutting tabs for ridge shingles and installing them for added protection

Always ensure to hire a reputable professional to handle the installation job.

The Cost-effectiveness of Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are one of the most affordable roofing materials on the market, making them an excellent choice for homeowners on a budget. Their installation is simpler and requires less labor, thus minimizing costs. In contrast, materials like metal and clay tiles require hefty investment and intense installation procedures.

Asphalt Shingles Maintenance: Keeping Your Roof at its Best

Routine maintenance can significantly enhance the lifespan of asphalt shingle roofs. Here's what to consider:

• Regular inspections for damages or wear
• Cleaning away debris that accumulates on the roof over time
• Sealing and timely repair of any cracks, tears, or buckle
• Practicing caution when climbing on the roof to avoid damages

Certified Asphalt Shingles: A Mark of Quality

To ensure you get a high-quality, efficient, and reliable product, always choose asphalt shingles that had undergone testing and certification procedures. The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) and the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) are reputable entities that certify the performance, wind resistance and fire rating of asphalt shingles.

Frequently Asked Questions about Asphalt Shingles

Why are Most Houses Covered with Asphalt Shingles?

Asphalt shingles have become a predominant roofing material in many regions due to its balance between cost, durability, and aesthetic appeal. They are less expensive than most other roofing materials yet offer comparable longevity and resistance to weather elements. Additionally, asphalt shingles come in a variety of styles and colors, catering to various homeowner preferences.

What is the Average Lifespan of Asphalt Shingles?

Typically, asphalt shingles last between 15 and 30 years. However, the actual lifespan can vary depending on conditions such as the quality of the materials, climate, and how well they're maintained. For instance, asphalt shingles can deteriorate faster in areas with high temperatures or heavy snowfall.

Can Asphalt Shingles Be Installed Over an Existing Roof?

While it's possible to install asphalt shingles over an existing roof, it's not always the best option. Doing so might save on costs initially, but it can lead to issues down the line as the underlying problems with the old roof are not addressed. Most building codes allow two layers of asphalt shingles, but it's often better to strip the old one off for the best results.

Is it Possible to Recycle Asphalt Shingles?

Interestingly, asphalt shingles are highly recyclable. Old shingles can be ground up and repurposed for various uses like pavements, which can help reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills. However, the availability of asphalt shingle recycling facilities may vary depending on your location.

How Does Weather Impact the Durability of Asphalt Shingles?

Extreme weather conditions, such as high temperatures, heavy rains, high winds, and hailstorms, can negatively affect the lifespan of asphalt shingles. That said, modern asphalt shingles are designed and manufactured to withstand adverse weather conditions and retain their appearance and functionality for years.

Are Asphalt Shingles Fire-Resistant?

Yes, asphalt shingles come with a degree of fire resistance. They are usually classified into classes A, B, and C, with class A being the most fire-resistant. However, keep in mind that this doesn't mean asphalt shingles are fireproof. The shingles can resist fires that start from outside the home, but they can still catch fire if the heat source comes from within the house.

Can Asphalt Shingles Be Pressure-Washed?

It is generally not recommended to pressure-wash asphalt shingles. The force of the water can strip away the granules from the shingles and cause them to deteriorate faster. Instead, it's better to opt for a soft wash or use roof cleaning products specifically designed to clean roofs without causing damage.

What Differentiates Architectural Shingles from Regular Asphalt Shingles?

Architectural shingles, also known as laminated or dimensional shingles, are a type of asphalt shingle that is heavier and dimensionally larger than the regular 3-tab asphalt shingle. They give a more textured, dimensional appearance to a roof, thereby enhancing its aesthetic value. Additionally, they often come with longer warranties due to their superior durability compared to standard asphalt shingles.

Pros of Asphalt Shingles

Versatility and Aesthetic Appeal

Asphalt shingles offer a high level of versatility. They are available in a plethora of styles, sizes, textures, and colors, ranging from traditional to contemporary. They are well-equipped to complement almost any exterior design or architectural style, making them an attractive choice for a wide variety of property types. In addition to this, asphalt shingles can mimic the look of other, more expensive roofing materials like cedar shakes or slate, giving homeowners an opportunity to achieve a high-end look without incurring exorbitant costs.

Cost-Effectiveness and Affordability

Arguably one of the biggest merits of asphalt shingles is that they are cost-effective. When compared to other roofing options like metal, tile, or slate, asphalt shingles are significantly less expensive. This affordability extends to installation costs as well; they can be installed relatively quickly and easily by roofing contractors, which helps to keep labor costs low. And, while they may not last as long as other materials, their performance-to-price ratio makes them a practical option for those on a budget.

Durability Against Weather Conditions

Despite their affordability, asphalt shingles are far from fragile. They are designed to stand up to severe weather conditions and can handle a good deal of wind, rain, and hail before showing any signs of damage. Many asphalt shingles come with a Class A fire rating, which is the highest category and provides excellent protection against fire. They can also bear heavy snow loads and resist breakage during colder temperatures.

Ease of Repair and Maintenance

Asphalt shingles can be easily repaired if they get damaged, and in most cases, only the affected shingles need to be replaced, which saves time and money. Maintenance is also simplified with asphalt shingles, as a regular annual inspection to check for cracks, warping, buckling, or loose shingles is usually sufficient to keep the roof in good shape.

Cons of Asphalt Shingles

Less Durable Than Some Other Materials

Although asphalt shingles are capable of standing up to tough weather conditions, they are not as durable as some other roofing materials. They cannot compete with the longevity offered by slate, clay, or metal roofs. The average lifespan of a asphalt shingle roof is around 15 to 20 years, while other materials can last up to 50 years or more.

Susceptibility to Heat and Thermal Cracking

Asphalt shingles are susceptible to damage from heat. In regions where temperatures frequently rise above 90 degrees, these shingles can heat up and become soft. This could cause them to become pliable and lose their shape, diminishing their effectiveness in keeping out water and potentially leading to leaks. Moreover, fluctuating temperatures can cause thermal cracking, leading to degradation and early roof failure.

Environmental Impact

While most asphalt shingles are recyclable, they are not exactly enviro-friendly roofing materials. Production of asphalt shingles involves petroleum and releases greenhouse gases. Given their relatively short lifespan coupled with the fact many old asphalt shingles end up in landfills due to lack of recycling facilities, the environmental footprint is sizeable.

Potential for Algae and Moss Growth

In humid climates, asphalt shingles may stand vulnerable to algae and moss growth. These can disfigure the roof's appearance over time and may reduce the longevity of the shingles. It requires regular cleaning and maintenance to keep this issue at bay, which some homeowners may find inconvenient.

Color Fading

The color of asphalt shingles often fades with years of direct exposure to sunlight. This can end up affecting the aesthetic appeal of the home and may require a homeowner to reroof sooner than anticipated to maintain the home’s curb appeal.

Myths and Misconceptions About Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most prevalent roofing material in many parts of the world, particularly in North America. Despite their popularity, several myths and misconceptions have been propagated about these roofing materials over the years. This section will debunk these misconceptions and bring clarity to the subject of asphalt shingles.

Myth 1: All Asphalt Shingles are the Same

Reality:

This is one of the most common misconceptions about asphalt shingles. Not all asphalt shingles are created equal. There are various types of asphalt shingles, each with different characteristics tailored to varying roofing needs:

1. Three-tab Shingles: These are the most basic type of asphalt shingles. They are inexpensive but have a relatively shorter lifespan.

2. Architectural Shingles: These are a more advanced type of asphalt shingles. They are thicker, more durable, and have a longer lifespan compared to three-tab shingles.

3. Premium Shingles: These are top-tier asphalt shingles. They offer advanced features such as superior weight, unique color blends, and more extensive warranties.

Myth 2: Asphalt Shingles Cannot Withstand Extreme Weather Conditions

Reality:

People often think asphalt shingles may not be suitable for areas with extreme weather conditions - either scorching heat or freezing cold. However, this is simply not true.

High-quality asphalt shingles are designed and constructed to withstand extreme weather conditions. For example, they have granules that reflect solar heat and an asphalt layer for waterproofing, making them ideal for hot and rainy climates. They also perform well in cold weather as they can resist cracking and shrinking - common issues with other roofing materials in low-temperature conditions.

Myth 3: Asphalt Shingles are Bad for the Environment

Reality:

While it is true that asphalt shingles are not completely environmentally friendly because they are derived from petroleum, they are not as detrimental to the environment as often portrayed.

Modern manufacturing processes have reduced the environmental impact of producing these shingles. Moreover, asphalt shingles are one of the most recyclable roofing materials. They can be recycled and repurposed into hot-mix asphalt for road construction, reducing landfill waste.

Myth 4: Asphalt Shingles Require No Maintenance

Reality:

While asphalt shingles require less maintenance compared to other roofing materials, they are not maintenance-free. Regular inspections are necessary to spot any damage or wear that might lead to leaks or other serious issues.

They require periodic cleaning to remove dirt and debris accumulated overtime and to prevent the growth of algae and moss. Ignoring even minor issues can severely reduce their lifespan.

Myth 5: It's Easy to Install Asphalt Shingles Yourself

Reality:

Although asphalt shingles are easier to install compared to other roofing materials, it doesn't mean it's a simple DIY project. Installing a roof is a complex process that requires knowledge on ventilation, flashing, and appropriate nailing techniques.

Mistakes in installation can lead to serious issues like leaks, reduced lifespan of the roof, and even warranty voidance. Therefore, it’s always best to hire a professional roofer to install asphalt shingles.

By debunking these myths and misconceptions, we can come to appreciate the real value and benefits of asphalt shingles as a durable, cost-effective, and versatile roofing option.

Summary

So, there you have it, the whole scoop on asphalt shingles. They're an affordable and durable choice for most homeowners, requiring fewer repairs than other roofing materials. They come in a wide selection of colors and styles which certainly helps in adding value and character to any home. Plus, they are pretty easy to install, making them a popular pick for sure!

We can't ignore that asphalt shingles also have an impressive lifespan. With proper maintenance and repair, most shingles can last a staggering 20 to 30 years! That's plenty of time to enjoy the comfort of a leak-free home while potentially saving a lot on replacement costs. Moreover, thanks to their fire-resistant properties, asphalt shingles can offer additional peace of mind for homeowners.

But, it's not just about the practical stuff, asphalt shingles play a huge role in boosting your curb appeal. After all, who does not want a beautiful, well-maintained roof that could turn heads? By providing versatile design options, they enable homeowners to express their personal style while improving the overall exterior look of their homes. So, if you're looking for a roofing material that's both functional and aesthetic, asphalt shingles might just be the perfect choice for you.

About GVD Renovations

GVD Renovations is a family-owned renovation juggernaut based in Roseville, CA. With us, home renovations and improvements are a breeze! Our menu of services? Everything from siding installations to whole-home transformations. Our dedicated, talented team not only spotlights years of expertise but also an unwavering commitment to making your dream home a reality. Renowned for our meticulous attention to detail and clear communication, every project is a blend of high-quality materials and timeless craftsmanship. Whether you're planning to refresh your dated-looking house exterior, or imagining a total home renovation, we at GVD Renovations are here with a warm welcome and a readiness to get started. We're not just building houses, we're crafting homes, and we can't wait to help craft yours!