Why Choose an Asphalt Shingle Roof For Your Home or Office?
Asphalt shingles are proven to effectively shed water off the roof as well as enhancing the overall beauty of your home. They come in a variety of of shapes sizes and colours and are the leading choice in most residential and commercial projects. Asphalt shingles are backed by a warranty typically ranging from 20 years to 50 years.
Asphalt shingles are built to withstand the elements and manufactured using a felt or fiberglass mat as the core materials on which other materials are layered on to. The felt is coated with hot asphalt and then covered with a protective layer of coloured, U.V. resistant ceramic granules. The fiberglass mat is coated with hot asphalt and the top surface is then covered with a protective layer of coloured U.V. resistant ceramic granules.
Asphalt Shingle Roof Benefits
- Affordable Cost
- Perfect for harsh climatic conditions
- Available in a wide selection of styles and colours
- Warranty periods ranging from 20 years to 50 years
- Low maintenance and easy to repairs
There are a variety of questions that have to be answered before making the decision of which shingle to go with. Firstly consider your budget, style of your roof, colours and desired warranty.
Additional Components of an Asphalt Shingle Roof
An asphalt roof is not simply a layer of shingles visible from the road; it’s an integrated system of essential materials and components designed to keep your home water-tight.
Though asphalt shingles often receive the most attention, the other elements involved are equally crucial for a functional and durable roof.
The fundamental components constituting an asphalt roof include:
- Roof Decking
- Flashing
- Underlayment
- Drip Edge
- Ice and Water Barrier
- Shingles
- Ridge Caps
- Roof Vents
- Pipe Collars
- Additional Flashing
Asphalt Shingle Roof FAQs
The lifespan of an asphalt shingle roof can vary widely depending on factors like climate, quality of materials, and installation. Generally speaking, traditional 3-tab shingles may last 20 to 30 years, while architectural or dimensional shingles may last 30 to 50 years.
The cost of installing an asphalt shingle roof can range from $3 to $5 per square foot, which includes materials and labor. For an average-sized home, this could be approximately $5,000 to $10,000. However, costs can vary by region, the complexity of the job, and other factors.
3-tab shingles are made from a single layer of material and have a flat appearance, resembling three separate pieces. They are generally less expensive but have a shorter lifespan. Architectural shingles are multi-layered, providing a three-dimensional appearance, and tend to be more durable but are also more expensive.
While it is possible to install a new layer of asphalt shingles over an existing one, many experts advise against it. Doing so can add extra weight to the structure and may void the warranty. Some local building codes may also prohibit this practice.
Routine inspections are recommended at least twice a year. It’s also advisable to clean gutters regularly, remove debris like leaves and branches from the roof, and check for signs of wear or damage like missing shingles or granule loss. Some recommend professional inspections after extreme weather events like storms or hail.