4 Interesting Facts About Asphalt Shingle Roofs

Since its initial use in the 1870s, asphalt has been one of the most widely used materials in the modern world. First used to pave roads, asphalt is now one of the most—if not the most—common roofing materials used in North America. A roof using asphalt is known as an asphalt shingle roof, which consists of interlocking tiles with a top coat of asphalt granules.

That’s not just the only interesting fact about asphalt, however. In today’s trivia post, Dynamic Roofing Concepts Inc. discusses four more facts about asphalt shingles.

Asphalt shingle popularity.

Asphalt shingle roofs comprise about 80% of the roofs in North America. One of the reasons for this is that asphalt shingles are far more affordable than other roofing types, such as concrete tile, slate or a metal roof. Asphalt shingle roofs also adapt newer technologies far more easily and readily, such as advances in dark-colored shingles that reflect light instead of absorbing it.

Asphalt vs. bitumen.

While used interchangeably, especially in the United States, asphalt and bitumen are not the same, though they’re closely related. Asphalt and bitumen are analogous to concrete and cement, respectively; asphalt is the finished mixture, while bitumen is merely the binder. Asphalt is also used far more commonly in residential roofs, while bitumen is layered among other materials in commercial applications.

Asphalt shingle recyclability.

Asphalt shingles are highly recyclable. These roofs normally have a 20-year life span, and when they’re done the remaining asphalt shingle granules can be collected and processed. They can find new life as pavement material and even new roofs.

Asphalt shingle cost for value.

Asphalt shingles are durable, impermeable (which makes them a great water-resistant barrier) and fire-resistant. Unlike other types of roofs, asphalt shingles can be installed more easily with less fuss, and it requires less maintenance than its contemporaries (like wood shakes or tile roofing, for example).

Dynamic Roofing Concepts Inc. is the top roofing authority in the area, and we can install different types of roofs—not just asphalt shingles. To learn more, call us today at (813) 657-7663 or fill out our contact form. We serve residents of Tampa, FL, and nearby areas.