CALL OR EMAIL US TODAY FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE – 202-276-5004 FAMILY.ROOFING@YAHOO.COM
At Family Roofing, we take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality and customer service. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction from start to completion of a project. Our reputation is based on service, safety and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.
Asphalt Shingles
Your roof is what keeps you protected. It provides you with peace of mind, knowing that you and your family are safe from rain, snow, hail, wind, heat, and cold. When it comes to choosing a roofing material, it’s critical that you select one that can withstand weather elements and has a long lifespan. Because asphalt shingles can do both and are inexpensive, easy to install, and widely available, they’ve become the most popular roofing material in the United States.
What are asphalt shingles? Why are they so popular? How can you know which contractor provides the best roof shingles? How are asphalt shingles made and compare different roof shingle types and costs to help you choose the best shingles for your home.
What are Asphalt Shingles and How are They Made?
Though you may think that asphalt shingles are made up entirely of asphalt, they’re actually made from a variety of raw materials. Every manufacturer will have a unique blend of these materials. Most asphalt shingles are made from limestone that has been crushed into a very fine powder. This powder is then mixed with the asphalt to create a filled coating.
Next, huge mats of fiberglass are fed into a coater where the filled coating is applied. The filled coating is heated to nearly 400 degrees Fahrenheit and added to both the top and bottom of the fiberglass mat. This is what creates the base of the shingle.
To give a shingle its color, texture, and protective coating, granules are added. Granules are made from mined rock that has been crushed. A layer of sand is added to the base of the shingle, which is then fed into a press to embed the granules. To protect against wind and hail damage, the sheet is covered with a strip of sealant. Finally, the mats are cut into individual shingles, bundled, and sent to roofing companies.
Asphalt shingles are available in two primary forms:
Three-tab: These are the most traditional, basic kind of shingles. They typically have a very flat appearance and generally weigh and cost less than dimensional roofing shingles. However, three-tab shingles are decreasing in popularity and have almost completely disappeared.
Dimensional roofing shingles: Most homeowners prefer these types of shingles because they’re available in a variety of colors, styles, and textures. Additionally, these shingles are typically thicker and offer more protection.
Lifespan of Shingles
While most asphalt shingles are marketed to last between 25-50 years, some roofs don’t last more than 7-10 years. There are a variety of factors that affect the lifespan of your roof, including climate, roof design, installation, and material.
Long-term exposure to harsh weather conditions can cause your shingles to deteriorate quickly. They lose their flexibility, durability, and waterproofing, which leaves your roof vulnerable to leaks and other structural damages. If you notice that your shingles are cracked, curled, or missing granules, it could be time for a serious roof repair or replacement.
CALL OR EMAIL US TODAY FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE – 202-276-5004 FAMILY.ROOFING@YAHOO.COM
Your roof is what keeps you protected. It provides you with peace of mind, knowing that you and your family are safe from rain, snow, hail, wind, heat, and cold. When it comes to choosing a roofing material, it’s critical that you select one that can withstand weather elements and has a long lifespan. Because asphalt shingles can do both and are inexpensive, easy to install, and widely available, they’ve become the most popular roofing material in the United States.
Long-term exposure to harsh weather conditions can cause your shingles to deteriorate quickly. They lose their flexibility, durability, and waterproofing, which leaves your roof vulnerable to leaks and other structural damages. If you notice that your shingles are cracked, curled, or missing granules, it could be time for a serious roof repair or replacement.