Types Of Roofing Shingles
In addition to maintaining the integrity of your roofs structure and helping to keep out water, roofing shingles also add a tremendous amount of curb appeal and value to your home. The type of roofing shingles you choose can also affect your roofs durability against wind, rain, hail, and other weather events.
Learn more about the different types and styles of roofing shingles.
Expect A Few Surprises
Very rarely does a home improvement project go exactly as planned. Once the crew begins removing the existing roof, they may find problems such as rotting or damaged decking and issues caused by inadequate ventilation.The crew is already there and ready to work, so have them fix any major problems they find. If you dont, the money you spend on a new roof will be a waste.
What Are Fiberglass Shingles
Fiberglass shingles are a practical option for your roof installation project. In addition, you can get the products that come from a woven fiberglass base mat.A waterproof asphalt coating covers the roofing material. Its then topped with ceramic particles that protect the shingles from harmful UV rays.
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The Lifespan Of Composition Shingle Roof
A composition roofs lifespan is the number of leak-free years you get out of it. Remember the 3 types of composition shingles we discussed earlier? Well, each comes with a specified lifespan from the manufacturer.
3-tab shingles can last up to 25 years and live the shortest of the three types of composition shingles. On the other hand, both architectural and luxury shingles have a lifespan of around 30 years.
But the luxury style is thicker and has the possibility to go over 30 years and up to 50 under the right conditions. As long as the composition shingles are properly installed and your attic is adequately ventilated, theyll get really close to the lifespans above.
However, other factors impact how long a composition roof ultimately lasts.
Pros Of Metal Roofing
- Metal roofing is made of up to 60 percent recycled material and can be completely recycled at the end of its life
- Modern metal roof products can be manufactured to mimic a wide range of textures, including wood and slate
- Metal roofs are low maintenance and last for 50 years or more
- Because metal roofs are energy efficient and durable, your home insurance company may give you a discount on your premium for having one installed
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Debris Can End Up In Your Yard But It Shouldnt Stay There
Old shingles, scraps of decking and underlayment, and old roofing nails will sometimes land in your yard. The installation crew should, however, clean up at the end of every day at the end of the job, they should thoroughly walk your property with a magnetic broom to collect all roofing nails and scraps of metal.
They Might Not Last As Long As Expected
With all of the performance and installation issues that come with asphalt shingles, it means they can generally have a shorter lifespan compared to an option like polymer composite shingles. At some point, usually within 10-20 years, asphalt shingles will require replacing due to granule loss, cracking, accelerated weathering, or other issues like wind blow-off and hail damage.
Polymer Composite shingles can last 50 years or more without routine maintenance or needing to be replaced due to storm damage.
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What Is A 30
âWhat most homeowners donât understand is that not all asphalt shingles are made the same. In general, there are two main types of asphalt shingles: 3-tab shingles and 30-year architectural shingles.
The more commonly used 3-tab shingles are constructed of three individual asphalt tabs that are one-foot wide. These asphalt-based shingles protect your home from the elements by dropping water to the shingle below. The best 3 tab shingles have a lifespan of around 15 years and are usually rated at being able to withstand wind speeds of up to 60 miles per hour.
ââWhen installed correctly, 30-year architectural shingles are guaranteed to last twice as long as 3-tab shingles and can withstand wind speeds of up to 130 miles per hour.
Pro: Laminate Shingles Are Durable
Laminate shingles may be an expensive roofing material, but they remain worth the investment. Since laminate shingles are thick, they can withstand significant amounts of wear and tear, including heavy winds and snowstorms. Their heavy weight makes them much less likely to fly away on a windy day. In addition, laminate shingles are less likely to curl than asphalt shingles. Thanks to their durability, manufacturers tend to back these products up with extended warranties that last throughout the roofs entire lifespan, which is typically at least 30 years.
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Pros Of Composite Shingles
- Because theyre made of synthetic materials, composite shingles are available in almost any color or texture
- The expected lifespan of this type of shingle is approximately 50 years
- Most composite shingles contain a high percentage of recycled material
- Composite shingles are resistant to mildew, algae, and stains from leaves and other debris, so maintenance is minimal
Laminate Vs Asphalt Shingles
The traditional asphalt shingles, which are used on the majority of homes today, are also referred to as 3-tab shingles. These are flat, have one shingle tab size and shape. While these have been a staple in the residential roofing industry for decades, there are other perhaps better options out there.
Laminate shingles are referred to as architectural or laminated architectural shingles. These are a type of asphalt shingle, but consist of a heavier base mat, as well as several material layers. This offers a more refined looking type of asphalt. Also, with these shingles, you will find several different sizes and shapes, providing a more dimensional appearance.
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Other Types Of Roofing Shingles
If youre required to install non-asphalt roofing materials because of local building codes or HOA rules, then you may need to consider the following roofing options for your home. If building codes, HOA rules, or other compliance factors are not an issue, then the aesthetics or look of most of these non-asphalt roofing materials can be achieved using architectural roofing shingles in specific designs and colors.
Types Of Fiberglass Shingles
There are two types of fiberglass shingles.
- Architectural Fiberglass Shingles
Also known as laminate shingles, roofing products are often the best option for more homeowners. Architectural shingles tabs come in different sizes and shapes but overlap in a manner that forms a visual interest on the roof.
- Three-tabs Fiberglass Shingles
Three-tab shingles are measured as the industrys standard in homebuilding. Each shingle has three separate tabs, each even in shape and size.
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A Simple Guide To Understanding Your Asphalt Shingle Roofing System
Submitted by Alexandre Pecora, member of the Communications, Marketing and Education Committee for ARMA
When the need for a new roof arises, homeowners have many options and styles from which to choose. Those unfamiliar with residential roof systems can be quickly overwhelmed with the numerous materials that are available. The information contained in this article will help readers understand the form and functionality of one of the most popular residential roofing materials in North America asphalt shingle roofing. There are multiple reasons for its popularity, including aesthetics, product performance, ease of installation and value.
How do I pick the right asphalt roofing system for my home?The first recommendation is to follow the advice of an experienced contractor. Most professional contractors are accredited by shingle manufacturers and can guide you through the roofing process. This article will provide you with the basic information needed to have an intelligent conversation with contractors.
It is important that homeowners understand the elements of their asphalt shingle roofing systems.
Composition of an asphalt shingle
While there are specialty shingles that possess unique composition, the following core materials are found in all asphalt shingle types:
What different types of asphalt shingles are available?
Asphalt shingle manufacturers offer an impressive range of design options which can be grouped into the following three categories:
Impact resistance
Which Is The Best Type Of Asphalt Roofing Shingle
No one shingle is the best choice for everyone. Instead, focus on finding the right type of shingle for you, that suits your home and your needs. When youre researching shingle types, why not reach out to a roofing professional? He/she can give you a recommendation based on your homes climate conditions, roof slope and style. Use IKOs Contractor Locator to find a professional roofer in your area.
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What Are Polymer Composite Shingles
Polymer Composite or Synthetic shingles, as they are known, are made from engineered materials and sometimes contain a mixture of recycled plastics and rubber. They come in many different styles and profiles, and are made to replicate the look of traditional asphalt shingles, wood shakes, and stone tiles. However, unlike their traditional counterparts, composite shingles are a much more durable and maintenance-free option.
Other Types Of Shingles
You may also hear the terms hip and ridge shingles and starter strips. These shingles match the overall style and construction of the main shingle that your roofing professional installs on your roof. However, they are specially shaped or designed to make installation easier.
In order to install shingles on the hips and ridges of a roof, professional roofers used to have to take a shingle and cut it into strips, then line the strips up and down the hips and ridges. This became a challenge when thicker laminate shingles became standard, as they were harder to cut and harder to bend over the ridge. To make things easier for roofers, manufacturers invented hip and ridge shingles in matching colors that dont need to be cut to be installed.
Starter strips or starter shingles are the first shingles that your professional roofer applies on the roof. Starter strips provide a solid sealant strip to bond the first course of main shingles to the roof. This sealant protects the roof substrate where there are gaps, joints or cutouts in the first course of shingles. They may also act as guides to ensure the roofer achieves the correct pattern on the rest of the roof.
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Asphalt Shingles Vs Composite Shingles: Which Is Better
Choosing between asphalt shingles or composite shingles for your replacement is an important decision. Because its so important, you need to be sure youre making the right choice.
But how can you be sure youre making the best decision for yourself? That comes down to comparing asphalt shingles and composite shingles on key factors. To make it easier for you, we put all these comparisons in one place.
For over 30 years, the team at Bill Ragan Roofing has helped homeowners find the perfect roofing material for their roof replacement. Now we want to help you determine if an asphalt shingle roof or a composite shingle roof is right for you.
Ill start this article by giving you a quick overview of asphalt shingles and composite shingles . After that, Ill get right into comparing them on curb appeal, lifespan, warranties, and, most importantly, cost.
Advantages Of Fiberglass Shingles
Here are a few benefits of installing fiberglass shingles.
- Increased insulation: The layer of glass fiber upsurges the heat resistance of these shingles, giving them a faintly sound shielding factor for your home.
- Fire resistance: The fiberglass in the shingle substitutes the paper-based material in organic asphalt shingles, making it an ideal option for fireproofing.
- Value: The shingles are thinner and use less asphalt. However, fiberglass shingles naturally cost the same as organic shingles but are durable.
- Environmental benefits: Since fiberglass shingles have less asphalt, theyre better for the environment.
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Disadvantages Of Asphalt Shingles
The following are the cons of using asphalt shingles.
- Vulnerable to Wind Uplift: Inexpensive asphalt shingles can get defenseless to strong winds. This makes them detach easily, thus making your roof vulnerable to leakages.
- Can Easily Crack: Due to their lightweight nature, asphalt shingles can crack easily, especially when exposed to extreme temperature variations. In addition, extreme temperature fluctuations can cause your shingles to contract and expand, resulting in cracks.
- Warping: One major asphalt shingle drawback is that they absorb a lot of water. As a result, the shingles get prone to warping leading to a weak roof that doesnt protect your home.
Thirty Years Ago A Generation Of Products Redefined Roofing Design And They Continue To Inspire Today
In the 1980s, enhancements to the dimensional shingle resulted in a new generation of high-quality asphalt roofing products with distinctive, often dramatic, appearances. With these advancements came a new name: architectural roofing shingles. Also known as laminated or dimensional shingles, architectural roofing shingles are among the highest quality roofing products made.
Traditionally, they are composed of a heavy fiberglass mat base and ceramic-coated mineral granules that are tightly embedded in carefully refined, water-resistant asphalt.
Architectural Shingles – Cedar Shakes: Some of the most attractive architectural roofing shingles simulate cedar wood shakes . These shingles are quite thick with random slots similar to real shakes.
Architectural Shingles – Slate: Another unique architectural shingle design imitates the look of slate without the weight issues that normally accompany those materials. These architectural roofing shingles do not require any additional roof support as slate would.
The products’ random colors and textures better accent the steep roof planes, turrets, and gable features of roofs. Many product lines offer hip and ridge accessory shingles that highlight a roof’s many sections and complement the shingle.
Helpful Resources
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Cons Of Slate Shingles
- Slate shingles are a natural, handmade product, so they carry the highest price tag of any roofing material
- Slate roofs are not as common as other types of roofs, so finding an experienced, qualified contractor for installation and repair can be challenging
- The significant weight of genuine slate shingles may mean that your roof requires structural bracing to increase its strength
Contact A Professional In Residential Roofing Services
After choosing asphalt or composite shingles, the next step is to consult with a professional in residential roofing services. Garlock-French has over 80 years of experience helping Minneapolis homeowners and residential property owners make the best roofing choices. Contact them today to find out more!
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Whats The Best Option For My Roof
We recommend laminated shingles in nearly every case! When we lay out exactly why laminate shingles are superior, its not hard for our clients to see the benefits.
Of course, you will need to consult with a roofing contractor about your specific home and roof before making a final decision, but in 99 times out of 100, we find that laminate roofing is the option that makes the most sense for homeowners.
We are experienced roofing contractors with over 50 years in the business! Get a 10 year workmanship warranty on your roof replacement. Contact us today.
Serving homeowners in Hamilton, Burlington, St. Catharines, and Niagara.
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Categories
Designer Architectural Laminated Shingles
Variously called luxury, premium or designer by different shingle manufacturers, this category comprises the ultimate, top-of-the-line architectural laminated shingles.
Of all the different types of shingles, the premium designer category most closely resembles the look of genuine wood shakes or natural slate tiles. As a result, this class also tends to offer the smallest range of color blends because Mother Nature uses a very specific palette.
Some shingles in this class consist of not two, but three layers laminated together for an exceptionally thick dimensional profile. That degree of thickness and weight delivers lots of cushioning power against the impact of hail. Be aware that not all designer architectural laminated shingles carry a Class 4 Impact Resistance Rating as described above so, if this is an important factor for you, be sure to check the specs.
Because designer architectural laminated shingles are engineered to create the in-demand, high-end look of genuine wood shakes or natural slate tiles, they are an excellent choice for estate homes or other properties of distinction. Theyll help your home blend into its natural surroundings or landscape, whether your homes style is traditional, rustic, contemporary or urban chic.
If youre planning to stay in your home for many years to come, these shingles will provide superior weather resistance and a solid long-term value for the cost.
IKO Royal Estate in Taupe Slate
IKO Crowne Slate in Regal Stone
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Pros And Cons Of Common Types Of Shingles
The prospect of a new roof can be intimidating and exciting all at the same time. Roof work is expensive, so you want to make absolutely certain that you choose the right contractor and the right material. Once those nerve-racking details are settled, youre left with the anticipation of a brand-new roof that will ramp up your homes curb appeal a few notches.
Your roof is made of several important layers, but the one you will see on a daily basis is the top layerthe shingles. Working together with the underlayment, the ventilation system, and the decking, your roofs shingles keep your home dry and protected through decades of weather. Theyre also an important aesthetic feature.
When you choose new shingles or roof cladding material, youll need to consider several elements:
- The climate in your area
- The architectural style of your house and roof
- Any HOA or neighborhood association restrictions or covenants
- Your personal style preferences
To help you decide on the best type of roofing material for your home, weve outlined the pros and cons of five popular types of shingles. Keep reading for more, or scroll right to the end for a shortlist of the top four things to consider when you have your roof replaced!