Denver Roofing Professionals: The Basics of Asphalt Shingles
August 30, 2017
Asphalt shingles are the most popular type of roofing for residential homes and commercial businesses, and for good reason. Asphalt shingles are not only the most economical option out there, but they are easy to install and widely available for purchase. Less costly than other types of roofing, asphalt shingles also come with a guaranteed life span. If you’re interested in replacing your current roof or building a roof with asphalt shingles, it’s important to know all about the basics before you decide on what you want. Let The Roof Dr. help you out, and then give us a call when you’re ready and learn more in asphalt shingles 101!
Due to the sturdy construction and inclusion of a fiberglass mat, less asphalt is needed for durability purposes, thus making fiberglass shingles lighter and thinner. Fiberglass shingles also carry a longer warranty than organic. That’s not to say that organic shingles aren’t a good choice either, though! Constructed out of recycled layers of felt paper, saturated with asphalt for water protection, and then coated with ceramic granules, organic shingles are thicker, heavier, and a bit more costly than fiberglass. These types of shingles can also absorb more water and warp over time, and while they are more organic, they need more asphalt making them less environmentally friendly.
Second, you have the option of architectural shingles. While they contain no cutouts, they do have a lower portion that is laminated with an additional layer of asphalt which gives off a dimensional look, giving these shingles their name. These type of shingles are extremely waterproof due to an asphalt sealant that bonds the layers. If you have a low-sloped roof, these are not the choice for you as they can be very vulnerable to wind-driven rain.
Before you commit to asphalt shingles, be sure you read all about the pros and cons of asphalt roofing shingles and contact The Roof Dr. to handle any of your roofing needs! Our expert staff has provided exceptional service to the Denver area for over 45 years and counting. We can install or upgrade your roof, and use the most superior products available.
Go Back Fiberglass and Organic
Your first option when it comes to choosing your asphalt shingles is what you want your shingles to be made out of. For asphalt shingles you can choose from fiberglass or organic. Fiberglass shingles are constructed out of a base mat made of woven fiberglass, covered with a waterproof coating, and finally ceramic granules that protect the shingles from UV rays are added on top.Due to the sturdy construction and inclusion of a fiberglass mat, less asphalt is needed for durability purposes, thus making fiberglass shingles lighter and thinner. Fiberglass shingles also carry a longer warranty than organic. That’s not to say that organic shingles aren’t a good choice either, though! Constructed out of recycled layers of felt paper, saturated with asphalt for water protection, and then coated with ceramic granules, organic shingles are thicker, heavier, and a bit more costly than fiberglass. These types of shingles can also absorb more water and warp over time, and while they are more organic, they need more asphalt making them less environmentally friendly.
Shingle Sizes and Types
All asphalt shingles measure 12 by 36 inches and come in two different types of roofing styles, regardless if you choose fiberglass or organic shingles. First, you have three-tab shingles which have cutouts or tabs along the lower edge. While the tabs make it look like you have separate pieces that are installed, you are really only installing one piece. This is the most economical option around today, and while created in the 1980s, still the most popular.Second, you have the option of architectural shingles. While they contain no cutouts, they do have a lower portion that is laminated with an additional layer of asphalt which gives off a dimensional look, giving these shingles their name. These type of shingles are extremely waterproof due to an asphalt sealant that bonds the layers. If you have a low-sloped roof, these are not the choice for you as they can be very vulnerable to wind-driven rain.
Color Choice
When it comes to asphalt shingles, the color choices are endless but it all depends on the style of your home. The most common color choices range in various shades of grays, browns, and reddish tones. Most roofing professionals can also mix and match the tones to give your roof a textured look, or even a weathered look if you have an older, vintage home.Before you commit to asphalt shingles, be sure you read all about the pros and cons of asphalt roofing shingles and contact The Roof Dr. to handle any of your roofing needs! Our expert staff has provided exceptional service to the Denver area for over 45 years and counting. We can install or upgrade your roof, and use the most superior products available.