When it comes to choosing the right roofing material for your home, few options offer the perfect blend of affordability, durability, and versatility quite like asphalt shingles. With their wide range of colors, styles, and types, asphalt shingles have become the go-to choice for homeowners across the country.
Here at On Tops Roofing, we’ve been installing asphalt shingle roofs since 1991. In our service area of Raleigh, North Carolina, the vast majority of the roofs that we install are asphalt shingle roofs. These days, we install a lot of architectural shingle roofs, which is a type we’ll talk a lot more about later.
In order to pass on our experience to you homeowners looking into an asphalt shingle roof replacement, we wanted to write this blog to give you everything you need to know about this common roofing material.
In today’s article, we’ll be going over:
Let’s get started!
When investing in a new roof, it's essential to consider the lifespan of the chosen material. Asphalt shingles have long been known for their impressive durability, making them a wise choice for homeowners. On average, asphalt shingles can last anywhere from 15 to 30 years, depending on factors such as climate, installation quality, and proper maintenance. However, it's crucial to note that different types of asphalt shingles have varying lifespans.
3-Tab Shingles: As the most common and economical option, 3-tab shingles are a popular choice for homeowners on a budget. These shingles have a flat, single-layer design with three evenly spaced tabs, giving them a uniform appearance. While they may not offer the same visual depth as architectural shingles, 3-tab shingles provide reliable performance and protection for your home.
Architectural Shingles: As mentioned earlier, architectural shingles are a sought-after option due to their enhanced aesthetic appeal and performance. These shingles are thicker and have a multi-layered design, creating a dimensional look on the roof. Architectural shingles can mimic the appearance of more expensive materials and come in a variety of styles and colors to suit your home's architecture and personal taste.
Not only do they provide aesthetic appeal, but they also offer enhanced performance and durability compared to traditional 3-tab shingles. Their thickness and multiple layers provide better protection against harsh weather conditions, making them a reliable option for homeowners.
Luxury Shingles: If you're looking to add a touch of luxury and elegance to your home, luxury shingles are the way to go. These high-end shingles often imitate the look of natural materials like slate or cedar shakes, providing a sophisticated and timeless appeal. Luxury shingles combine aesthetics with exceptional durability, ensuring your roof stands out while offering long-lasting protection.
Another advantage of asphalt shingles is their affordability. They offer an excellent balance between cost and quality, making them a budget-friendly option for homeowners. The price of asphalt shingles can vary depending on factors such as the type, brand, and region. Generally, 3-tab shingles are the most affordable option, while architectural and luxury shingles are priced slightly higher due to their enhanced features and aesthetics. It's important to remember that while asphalt shingles may have a lower upfront cost compared to other roofing materials, roof replacements can still be pretty expensive.
When it comes to asphalt shingles, there are several reputable brands to choose from. GAF and CertainTeed are two industry-leading manufacturers known for their quality products and innovation. GAF offers a wide range of shingles that cater to different preferences and budgets, including their popular Timberline® series. CertainTeed is also highly regarded for their extensive selection of asphalt shingles, such as the Landmark® series. These brands provide homeowners with peace of mind knowing they are investing in reliable and trusted products.
Asphalt shingles are composed of a fiberglass or organic mat coated with asphalt and topped with ceramic granules. This combination creates a durable, weather-resistant, and fire-resistant roofing material. The benefits of asphalt shingles extend beyond their affordability and visual appeal:
Excellent Weather Resistance: Asphalt shingles are designed to withstand various weather conditions, including rain, snow, wind, and UV rays. Their composition provides effective protection against water infiltration and prevents damage caused by extreme temperature changes.
Wide Range of Colors and Styles: Asphalt shingles offer homeowners a vast selection of colors and styles to suit their preferences and complement the architectural style of their homes. Whether you prefer a traditional look or a more contemporary design, there are asphalt shingles available to meet your specific aesthetic requirements.
Easy Installation: The installation process for asphalt shingles is relatively straightforward, making it a convenient choice for homeowners and roofing contractors alike. Proper installation techniques ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Energy Efficiency: Certain types of asphalt shingles, such as those with reflective coatings, can help reduce heat absorption and improve energy efficiency in your home. This can result in lower cooling costs during hot summers.
To maximize the lifespan and performance of your asphalt shingles, regular maintenance is essential. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Regular Inspections: Periodically inspect your roof for any signs of damage, such as loose or missing shingles, cracks, or granule loss. Promptly address any issues to prevent further damage.
Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Ensure that your gutters and downspouts are clear of debris, allowing proper water flow. Clogged gutters can lead to water backup and potential damage to your roof.
Remove Moss and Algae: If you notice moss or algae growth on your roof, gently remove it using a soft brush or specialized cleaning solution. These growths can affect the integrity of the shingles if left untreated.
Trim Overhanging Branches: Trim any tree branches that hang over your roof to prevent them from scratching or damaging the shingles during strong winds.
After reading this blog, we hope you've got a much better understanding of how asphalt shingles may be able to fit for your roof replacement project!
Asphalt shingles offer homeowners an ideal combination of durability, affordability, and aesthetic appeal. With options like architectural, 3-tab, and luxury shingles, homeowners have a wide range of choices to suit their style and budget. Brands like GAF and CertainTeed provide quality products trusted by professionals and homeowners alike. The composition of asphalt shingles ensures weather resistance and easy installation, while their maintenance is relatively straightforward. By choosing asphalt shingles for your roofing needs and following proper maintenance practices, you can enjoy a beautiful, long-lasting roof that protects your home for years to come.
On Tops Roofing has been installing asphalt shingles in Raleigh, NC for over 30 years! Whatever your roofing project looks like, We're on it!
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