In addition to being the most popular roofing system in the U.S., composite asphalt shingles also offer an assortment of different style options and are relatively simple to install, making them an appealing choice for roofing contractors to propose to their clients. Keep in mind, getting a new roof is in no way, shape or form a modest task. However, asphalt shingles are amongst the most affordably priced choices that are available to homeowners. Ask your roofing contractor to check whether this is a reasonable option for your next roofing project.
3-TAB/ Strip Shingles
While it is probably not the most requested option when choosing a roof in today’s age, the 3-tab (strip) shingle was the first of its kind to be created from asphalt composition. They are made from one single layer of asphalt which gives them a flat appearance. Since they are only made from a single layer, they are also less durable making them the least expensive asphalt composition shingle available. Before other high quality asphalt shingles were introduced around the late 1970’s – early 80’s, strip shingles were the most popular roofing shingle in the market. Today, they are used most often by home builders that manufacture inexpensive homes, or by homeowners who are replacing roofing shingles on residences that already have them on their roof. Most manufacturers have a standard warranty protection of 20 – 25 years for 3-tabs.
Architectural Shingles
Known also as laminate or dimensional shingles, architectural shingles are the most prevalent asphalt shingles available on the market. This particular style of shingle is created using two or more layers of asphalt that are strategically bonded together, giving it a bulkier and more pleasant multi-dimensional appearance. Engineered to replicate the old wood shake and natural slate roofing aesthetics, this shingle has grown to become the standard selection for asphalt composition roofing. Dimensional shingles are heavier than the 3-tab, and have improved warranty protection packages up to 30 years and beyond.
Designer Shingles
Designer shingles, also known as luxury, are the highest-quality laminated shingles that are available, offering a differentiated appearance and functionality that outclasses that of any other asphalt composition shingle. Aside from being the heaviest shingle that offers premium protection for weathering, luxury shingles are also a much more pleasing finish to your home, presenting the highest quality, coloration, and dimensionality. These products offer the most realistic representation of the old-world wood shake and quarried slate roofing. Manufacturer’s warranty for luxury shingles range from 50 years – lifetime.
Benefits of Asphalt
Due to modern engineering techniques and the dynamic properties of asphalt, manufacturers are capable of producing numerous specialty products that exist across all shingle types. These include shingles that fight the growth of algae, offer enhanced resistance to hail, and offer cool roof color technology that reflects the heat of the sun to keep your home cooler and can in-turn reduce the expenses of the air conditioning. Depending on your location, choosing a specialty shingle can even reduce your insurance costs. In addition, asphalt shingles are naturally fire resistant, making them an ideal choice for areas where wildfires are prominent. Contact your roofing contractor to see which of these 3 options are most suitable for your home.