There are several asphalt shingles on the market and they come in different designs. This article will provide you with information about the different types of roofing shingles available, their pros and cons, and how long each type lasts.
The lifespan of a roof can be difficult to determine because it depends upon many factors including maintenance care, climate conditions in your area, exposure to sun UV rays if not covered by plants or trees, leaks or water punctures, and other natural environmental elements such as hail or ice storms. However, there is an easy way for figuring this out – match your new roof design with a reputable manufacturer that gives warranty information about their products. Most of these manufacturers state on their websites what kind of warranty (i.e. 10, 15 or even 30 years) they offer for their products and what kind of conditions you must keep the shingles in order to receive a warranty.
There are two main types of asphalt shingles: 3-tabs and architectural (perforated). These are more expensive than single-ply but do last longer as they can withstand higher winds from hurricanes and tornadoes as well as provide better insulation properties. Single-ply shingles will need to be replaced every 5-7 years while a 3-tabs one is considered good for at least 12 years if properly installed under very good conditions. Keep in mind that most manufacturers do not give a guarantee to certain environmental factors such as hail, ice, water, and winds.
Asphalt shingles are made of saturated asphalt that is made to be flexible but strong enough to withstand the elements for a certain amount of time (which can be as long as 30 years). Shingles are layered horizontally using nails or adhesives, starting on the bottom side. The top layer has cutouts to let water through. When it rains, the water will trickle down under the shingles and out into gutters and downspouts that carry it away from your home’s foundation.
The lifespan of your roof depends upon many factors including maintenance care. If there is any damage or imperfection in your roof you need to get repairs immediately before things get worse. Also, try to keep out ice and snow from the shingles during the winter months.
Asphalt shingles are strong enough to withstand winds of up to 120 mph. If there is no damage done after a high wind storm, you can repair your roof by just replacing some cracked or broken shingles. The cost for materials is low but it will depend upon the size of your roof.
Remember that if you have an asphalt shingle roof on your house but it is damaged by hail or high winds, you need to make repairs right away because these events are not covered in the warranty offered by most manufacturers. You can also check online at various websites where homeowners provide recommendations regarding their new roofs as well as provide pictures. Asphalt shingles have changed over the years, and are now better than before. For example, 3-layer shingles are now available with a reflective or aluminized coating that will reflect away the sun’s heat from your roof as well as prevent it from becoming too hot during the summer months.
If you live in an area with a lot of trees, you might want to consider an asphalt shingle roof that has a Class A fire rating. This means that it can resist fires better than other types of roofs. Asphalt shingles are also available in different colors and styles so you can choose the one that best matches your home’s exterior design.
There are two main types of asphalt shingles: 3-tabs and architectural (perforated). These are more expensive than single-ply but do last longer as they can withstand higher winds from hurricanes and tornadoes as well as provide better insulation properties. Single-ply shingles will need to be replaced every 5-7 years while a 3-tabs one is considered good for at least 12 years if properly installed under very good conditions. Keep in mind that most manufacturers do not give a guarantee to certain environmental factors such as hail, ice, water, and winds.
3-Tab Shingles
Three-tab shingles are the most basic and commonly used type of asphalt shingle. They are flat with a rectangular shape and two cutouts on each side that resemble tabs. Three-tab shingles are less durable and not as energy-efficient as architectural shingles, but they cost less upfront.
Architectural Shingles
Also known as laminated or dimensional shingles, architectural shingles are more durable and have a three-dimensional shape. They are made with two layers of asphalt that are bonded together with fiberglass mats. Architectural shingles come in a variety of colors and styles, and they last longer than three-tab shingles.
Reflective Shingles
Reflective shingles have a coating that helps reflect the sun’s heat away from your roof. This can help keep your home cooler in the summer and reduce your energy costs. Reflective shingles are available in both three-tab and architectural styles.
Algae Resistant Shingles
Algae-resistant shingles help prevent the growth of algae on your roof. Algae can cause your shingles to deteriorate and discolor over time, so using algae-resistant shingles can help extend the life of your roof.
Asphalt shingles are a popular choice for many homeowners because they are affordable, easy to install, and available in a variety of colors and styles. There are several things to consider before choosing asphalt shingles for your homes, such as the climate, the type of roofing underlayment you have, and the pitch of your roof.
If you live in an area with severe weather conditions, you might want to consider impact-resistant shingles. These shingles are designed to withstand high winds and hail, and they can help protect your home from damage during a storm.
Before you choose asphalt shingles for your roof, it’s important to compare the different types that are available and decide which one is right for your home. Consider the climate, the type of roofing underlayment you have, and the pitch of your roof to help you make the best decision.
