Your Tualatin home should be an oasis of comfort, and your roof protects your family and property from harsh elements and vandalism.
Whether you are looking around for a reliable roof for your new building or planning to replace your damaged roof, you must take your time to compare different roofing options.
Asphalt roofing shingles might be the first roofing system that comes to mind. They are undoubtedly the go-to roofing for many homeowners and business owners in the United States, thanks to their affordability and long lifespan.
Today with the help of our residential roofing contractors in Portland will discuss the pros and cons of asphalt shingle roofing.
What is Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular roofing materials used in residential and commercial buildings.
They are composed of fiberglass or organic mat coated with asphalt and covered with ceramic granules.
These granules not only provide aesthetic appeal but also serve as a protective layer against the elements.
The composition of asphalt shingle plays a crucial role in their durability and performance.
The fiberglass mat provides strength and stability, while the asphalt serves as a waterproofing agent, preventing moisture from penetrating the roof.
The ceramic granules on the surface offer additional protection against UV rays, impact and fire.
There are two main types of asphalt shingles fiberglass and organic.
Fiberglass shingles are lighter, more fire-resistant, and often more affordable than organic shingles.
On the other hand, organic shingles are made from recycled felt paper saturated with asphalt, making them more flexible and durable.
What are the Pros of Asphalt Shingles Roofing?
Did you know that asphalt shingles are used in over 80% of American homes? Well, the beauty, longevity, affordability, and reliability of asphalt shingles make them the most used roofing system in the country.
Here are the advantages of asphalt shingles.
They are Versatile
Asphalt shingles are among the most versatile roofing systems available today. They can be used in different shapes, forms, and even angles. Thanks to this versatility, asphalt shingles can work with almost all roofs, including flat roofs, Dutch gables, and cross-hipped. As a result, asphalt shingles are ideal for large and complicated roofs.
Types of Asphalt Shingles
There are three primary types of asphalt shingles three-tab shingles, architectural shingles and luxury shingles. Each type offers different characteristics in terms of appearance, durability and cost.
Three-Tab Shingles: Three-tab shingles are the most basic and economical option. They consist of a single layer of asphalt with notches (tabs) cut out along the lower edge, creating the appearance of three separate shingles. They have a flat, uniform look and are available in a range of colors. Three-tab shingles are lightweight and easy to install, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious homeowners.
Architectural Shingles: Also known as dimensional or laminate shingles, architectural shingles have gained popularity due to their enhanced aesthetics and increased durability. They are constructed with multiple layers of asphalt, giving them a three-dimensional appearance. Architectural shingles often mimic the look of natural materials, such as wood or slate, and can come in various shapes and sizes. They offer better resistance to wind, impact, and UV rays compared to three-tab shingles. While they are generally more expensive than three-tab shingles, architectural shingles provide a longer lifespan and a more visually appealing roof.
Luxury Shingles: Luxury shingles are a premium option that offers exceptional durability, enhanced aesthetics, and advanced features. They are often made from high-quality materials, such as fiberglass, and incorporate additional design elements like shadow lines or textured surfaces to mimic the appearance of traditional roofing materials. Luxury shingles provide superior weather resistance, extended warranties, and can withstand harsh conditions. They are typically the most expensive option but offer a highly durable and distinctive roofing solution.
Available in a Range of Architectural styles
Another reason why asphalt shingles are the go-to options for many homeowners and business owners is that they are available in various architectural styles.
Homeowners and business owners can choose between the 3-tab shingles, premium shingles, and dimensional shingles. 3-tab shingles, also known as strip shingles, have been around for decades and blend ins seamlessly with many styles.
Strip shingles have a flat appearance and are made from a single layer of asphalt. Beyond that, strip shingles are cheaper and lighter than the other types.
Dimensional shingles, also called laminate or architectural shingles, have more than two layers of asphalt. Since these layers are fused, they give a thicker and more multidimensional appearance. They are heavier than 3-tab shingles.
Luxury shingles offer the highest quality protection, coloration, and dimensionality. They mimic slate and wood shake and are heavier than the other designs.
Available in a Range of Colors
Asphalt shingles are available in unlimited color options. As a result, it’s the best option for all your roofing needs. For instance, you will be able to choose a color that works well with the existing color palette in your home.
This is important to increase your home’s curb appeal before a sale. Above all, it’s the best option for you if you want to customize the appearance of your building. You can even paint your asphalt shingles to add your personality or to improve energy efficiency.
They are Easy to Install
Asphalt shingles are relatively easy to install because they are light and easy to cut. This also means that the installation cost is low.
They are Durable
Typically, asphalt shingles last anywhere from 15 to 50 years, depending on the thickness, maintenance, and location. Of course, thicker shingles last longer than the rest.
They are Recyclable
Today, asphalt shingles can be repurposed into other products. Recycled asphalt shingles can be used to make and repair roads. They are also used to generate electricity.
They can be Integrated with Other Roof Features
Due to their flexibility, asphalt shingles work well with other roof features, such as chimneys and skylights.
They are Easy to Repair
Since asphalt is one of the most used roofing material, you can find an experienced roofer to repair your shingles quickly.
Maintenance and Durability of Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are known for their durability and require regular maintenance to ensure their longevity. With proper care, they can provide reliable protection for your new roof for many years.
One key aspect of maintenance is keeping the shingles clean and free from debris. Regularly inspecting the roof and removing any leaves, branches or other debris can prevent moisture buildup and the growth of algae or moss. Additionally, cleaning off any accumulated dirt or stains can help maintain the appearance and integrity of the shingles.
Another important aspect is inspecting for any signs of damage, such as cracked, curled, or missing shingles. Promptly addressing these issues can prevent water leakage and further deterioration. Damaged shingles can be replaced individually without the need for a complete roof replacement, making repairs more cost-effective.
Maintaining the integrity of the roof’s flashing is crucial. Flashing is typically made of metal and is used to seal and protect vulnerable areas of the roof, such as intersections, valleys, and chimneys. Regularly inspecting and repairing damaged or deteriorated flashing is essential to prevent water infiltration.
While asphalt shingles are durable, they can still be susceptible to certain factors that can affect their lifespan. These factors include severe weather conditions, prolonged exposure to UV rays and inadequate ventilation in the attic. Ensuring proper attic ventilation and installing measures to minimize excessive heat or moisture buildup can help prolong the life of asphalt shingles.
Comparison with Other Roofing Materials
When compared to other roofing materials asphalt shingles roofs have several advantages.
They are more affordable than alternatives such as metal, clay tiles, or slate making them a cost-effective option for many homeowners. Asphalt shingles are lightweight which simplifies installation and reduces the structural requirements of the roof.
In terms of durability while asphalt shingles have a lifespan of around 15 to 30 years they generally have a shorter lifespan compared to roofing material like metal or slate. However, they are still highly resistant to harsh weather conditions including wind, rain, and snow.
Compared to metal roofing, asphalt shingles roof offer better insulation and soundproofing properties.
They also provide a wider range of color and style options to suit various architectural designs.
On the other hand, materials like metal and slate roofing tend to have a longer lifespan and are more resistant to fire and extreme weather conditions.
