Top 4 Benefits of Using Asphalt Shingles
Of all the possible roofing materials out there, asphalt shingles are by far the most popular. Even though other materials, such as aluminum, copper, or cedar shake, have their own long list of advantages, asphalt is used in more than 80% of re-roofing projects and new installations.
If you’re in need of asphalt roof repair or it’s time for a new roof to be installed on your home, you may want to learn more about the material, its benefits, and more. At Big Boy’s Construction, we take pride in offering our customers some of the best roofing services in the Indianapolis area. Whether you simply want to start with a roof inspection to see what’s needed, or if you’re ready to get to work, our contractors are highly skilled and experienced. We use the highest quality materials and workmanship, giving you peace of mind knowing that your roof will protect the home for decades.
There are two different types of asphalt shingles: fiberglass and organic. Fiberglass asphalt shingles are used in around 90% of roof installations in the US. And even though there is an organic option that is made with layers of felt paper, it can actually be more harmful to the environment so it’s not often used.
Fiberglass shingles are made up of a few layers, including a woven fiberglass mat, a coating of waterproof asphalt, and the top layer is made of ceramic granules that protect the material from harmful UV rays. Fiberglass is used to manufacture asphalt shingles so that less asphalt is needed. This keeps the shingles lighter weight than other materials and also adds to its fire-resistant properties and makes the material more durable.
Four Main Benefits of Using Asphalt Shingles
Affordable
Asphalt is an incredibly cost-effective roofing material: around $5,000 on the low end and $6,500 on the high end. However, the exact cost will depend on your location and certain features of your roof, such as the pitch, size, the number of dormers, and the type of asphalt shingle (more on that later).
Durable
With proper maintenance and when weather conditions are not too severe, an asphalt roof can last around 20 years. This does depend on the quality of the shingle. The outer layer of granules will wear down after years of wind, hail storms, and snow, but a higher quality shingle will do a better job of withstanding these conditions and may last another five years longer.
Variety
Asphalt shingles come in a variety of colors and styles that can match the look of your home. There are also different shapes available, such as the typical long, rectangular shingle or shingles that overlap creating a 3D effect.
Eco-Friendly
Asphalt shingles have recently become more eco-friendly as technology to recycle the material has improved. In Indiana, the Department of Transportation (INDOT) uses both pre and post-consumer recycled asphalt shingles for roads.
There are essentially three main types of asphalt roofing shingles: 3-tab, dimensional or laminated, and premium/designer asphalt shingles.
3-Tab Shingles
Also known as strip shingles, these are the most basic type of shingle. They are made of a single layer of asphalt with cut-outs that form three individual tabs, giving the roof a very flat appearance. They are lightweight and the least expensive type.
Dimensional or Laminated Shingles
Also known as architectural shingles, these shingles are manufactured with two or more layers of asphalt that are fused together. This design makes the shingles thicker, which adds a 3D or multi-dimensional appearance, as well as heavier, which makes them more wind-resistant. They are designed to look like wood shake shingles.
Premium/Designer Shingles
The most expensive type of asphalt shingles, luxury shingles are the heaviest, thickest, and they have even greater dimensionality. Because they are heavier, they can handle even the toughest weather conditions. They are designed to give the most realistic wood shake appearance.
