If you know it is time for your roof to get a replacement and are considering one of the most popular roofing options – asphalt shingle – there are some things that you need to know.
How are asphalt shingles made?
Asphalt shingles have a very particular makeup that makes them so incredibly strong. Most people don’t know that asphalt shingles are fiberglass with a felt paper base coated with a waterproof asphalt layer.
The waterproof layer of asphalt is topped with all of the ceramic granules of the fiberglass. This process is what makes the asphalt shingles so durable, as well as offers a cost-effective roofing solution.
Are there many types of asphalt shingles?
There are two different options when it comes to choosing your asphalt shingles.
They are usually manufactured as architectural shingles or three-tab shingles.
An architectural shingle is manufactured with an extra layer of asphalt. This extra layer gives them a little more dimension and can look like other roofing products like slate.
The three-tab asphalt shingles are single shingles, although they are designed to look like a row of three. This makes installing a whole roof super easy and practical without the massive costs attached to some other roofing options.
It is always working talking through all of the service options available with your roofing contractor.
How long will my asphalt shingle roof last?
The incredible asphalt shingle comes with one of the highest weatherproof reputations. Asphalt shingles can stand up to a range of different weathers, including high winds and high heat.
Of course, the real life of your asphalt shingle is in the hands of your skilled roofing contractor. This is why it’s always important to check all of the testimonials and reviews for your company before you opt to go with them.
When you factor in regular maintenance, this will ensure your roof stands the test of time.
Manufacturers will often recommend that an asphalt shingle roof last up to 30 years, considering regular maintenance, repairs, and no severe weather.
Will I know where my shingles need to be replaced?
Luckily there are some noticeable signs that your shingles might need to be replaced by a professional roofer. If you notice any of the following issues, it’s a good time to give your local roofing contractor a call – but remember to check out testimonials first!
If you notice that the edge of any of the shingles is curling, this is because they have become dry over time.
High winds tend to pull them up because they are a little more brittle. While there is no repair for this one, it doesn’t take much to have the tiles replaced.
Missing shingles is the most common way people know they need to replace their asphalt shingles. If a few are blown off, there could be severe damage to the exposed parts.
If you know that your roof is at least between 15 to 20 years old and you have not had it repaired or had it inspected, now is the time to get that done. It is often the case that older variations of asphalt shingle do not tend to last as long as the modern variance.
And finally, if you notice that there are missing granules when you look at the roof, it is a good idea to have those few shingles replaced.
Is there a lot of maintenance on an asphalt shingle roof?
A roof that has asphalt shingles is considered one of the most low-maintenance roofing options around. The low maintenance is what adds to its cost-effectiveness.
You still need to have regular inspections to make sure that you are sticking to the rules of your insurance coverage when it comes to your roof, though.
If you live in an area prone to severe weather, like hailstones, for example, replacing a few shingles is very easy for a professional and experienced roofing team.
Is an asphalt shingle roof expensive?
Incredibly considering the high quality of an asphalt shingle roof, it is the most cost-effective roofing solution. They are hard-wearing and are designed to put up with a range of weather.
This means that they can stand the test of time, and you are most likely to get the highest value out of them. The way that an asphalt shingle roof is fitted makes repairs and maintenance an absolute breeze.
So long as your roof deck is in good condition, you shouldn’t expect to pay too much to have a brand-new roof installed, especially when the price is compared with some of the other everything options that do not have the same longevity or ease of maintenance and repairs.