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Asphalt Shingles and
Roofing
Asphalt Roofing Shingle Types and their
Benefits and Warranties
By: Mark J. Donovan
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The asphalt shingle is the most commonly and widely used roofing
shingle type used. The main reasons for their dominant use in
residential construction is that they are relatively inexpensive both
from a material and installation perspective. Asphalt roofing shingles
are typically used in more moderate climates as high heat dramatically
shortens their lifespan. There are two basic types of asphalt shingles
on the market today, organic asphalt shingles and fiberglass asphalt
shingles. There are also two asphalt shingle styles sold today on the
market, 3 tab asphalt shingles and architectural asphalt roofing
shingles. |
Organic asphalt shingles have approximately 40% more asphalt in them
than fiberglass shingles, and thus they are typically heavier and are
considered less green friendly. Organic fiberglass shingles are also
more susceptible to fire as well due to their higher asphalt content.
Organic asphalt shingles are manufactured by saturating an organic
paper in asphalt, applying an adhesive to the top surface, and finally
embedding sand granules into the adhesive. Asphalt shingle
manufacturers also integrate algae resistant paint into the sand
granules to create the various shingle colors and to protect against
algae discoloration.
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Fiberglass asphalt shingles are constructed from a base of
fiberglass reinforcement mat. The fiberglass mat can vary in thickness and
strength which affects its lifetime guarantee. Asphalt is applied to the mat,
rather than saturating it with asphalt. Adhesive and sand granules, along with
algae resistant paint, are then added to the top surface of the shingle.
3-tab asphalt roofing shingles still are the most common type of roofing product
used due to their low cost and ease of installation. However, architectural
shingles have become popular in recent years. |
Typically architectural asphalt shingles are used more frequently
on higher end homes. Architectural asphalt shingles cost more from
both a materials and installation perspective, however they typically
have a longer lifespan.
| The quality and length of warranty on asphalt shingles varies widely
with the overall weight of the shingle and its construction. Common
asphalt shingle warranty life varies from 20 to 40 years. Heat can
dramatically shorten the life of asphalt shingles. Consequently proper
attic insulation and ventilation is critical for maximizing the life
of asphalt shingles. In general the warranty life stated for asphalt
shingles is a best case scenario with the shingles properly installed,
and with moderate roof and attic temperature exposure. |
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Asphalt shingle aging shows up by the observation of cupping and
curling edges, staining, shrinkage, and cracking. Also the paper or
fiberglass mesh backing may begin to tear and nail heads show. In
addition, the sand granules begin to separate and roll off the shingle
surface. Eventually all these issues lead to shingle failure and roof
leaks. So when shopping for asphalt shingles make sure to buy the
longest lifespan warranty you can afford and be sure to properly
insulate and ventilate your attic.
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