Ideal Roofing Materials for Every Home – PART 1: Asphalt-Shingle Roofing
Did you know that as many as 80% of residential structures in North America use asphalt shingles as their roofing material? Indeed, this option has always been very popular because it combines beauty, durability and efficiency all at an amazingly affordable cost. Asphalt shingles are manufactured as either three-tab or architectural.
The former, as its name suggests, is designed to look like three shingles although it’s actually all one piece, making it relatively easy to install. The latter, on the other hand, has a more dimensional appearance, offering a more sophisticated look.
Asphalt Shingle Composition
You may be surprised to learn that asphalt shingles aren’t made completely of asphalt. Rather, they consist of either a fiberglass or felt paper base that is coated with a waterproof asphalt layer then topped with ceramic granules. The fiberglass base, though, has been the more popular composition since the product’s development in the 1980s, primarily because it is lighter and more cost-effective. Despite this, it still lends considerable strength and protection to the roof.
Unique Features and Benefits
Simply put, asphalt shingles are your perfect option if you’re on a budget but are looking for a roofing product that can deliver excellent performance. After all, it brings together durability, versatility and longevity. There’s more to asphalt shingles than these features, though. Below are some of the material’s most notable qualities:
Weather Resistance
Asphalt shingles can stand up to hot or cold climates, , especially with regular maintenance.
Lightweight
Unlike other options, asphalt shingles are very light, which means they won’t put too much stress on your infrastructure. They can also be installed easily on any roof due to their light weight.
Aesthetics
When you choose to install asphalt shingles, you’ll never run out of design options. They come in an impressive selection of colors, styles and texture to suit just about any architectural design.
Long Service Life
Asphalt shingle roofing can protect your home for up to 25 years or more, if maintained properly.
Want a roofing material that can boost your home’s energy efficiency? Metal is your best bet! Learn more about its energy-saving benefits in Part 2 of this blog series.
