Do you have an asphalt shingle roof? Here’s what you need to know about it.

Learn all about asphalt shingles, the most popular choice of roofing material for decades in America.

What Are Asphalt Shingles Made From?

Asphalt shingles are not made of asphalt all the way through. Rather, they consist of either a fiberglass or felt paper base coated with a waterproof later of asphalt and topped with ceramic granules. Since its development in the 1980s, the fiberglass base has been the more popular product. It is lighter and less expensive but still lends considerable strength to the roof, as well as additional fire protection.

What Types of Shingles Are Available?

Shingles are manufactured as either three-tab shingles or architectural shingles. The three-tab variety is designed to look like three shingles though it is actually all one piece. It is easy to install, economical, and very popular. Architectural shingles are manufactured with an additional layer of asphalt to give them more dimension and enable them to mimic the look of bulkier roofing products like wood or slate. Both types of shingles come in a large variety of colors to suit just about any home design.

Are Asphalt Shingles Eco-Friendly?

Although the old-fashioned felt paper-backed shingles do contain recycled paper, their higher asphalt content makes them less eco-friendly. However, many companies are now offering fiberglass shingles that incorporate features such as solar reflective asphalt that can help prevent the sun’s rays from heating up a building. This offers an eco-friendly benefit in terms of saving energy that would otherwise be needed for cooling the building.

How Long Do Asphalt Shingles Last?

A variety of factors can affect shingle life, including weather, roof pitch, quality of installation, and of course the quality of the shingle. Shop around and you will find warranties ranging from 15 to 30 years. Depending on the quality of your choice of shingles, you can expect your shingles to reach the upper end of whatever lifespan the manufacturer promises for them.

How Do I Know When My Shingles Need to be Replaced?

If you notice any of the following issues, you should consult an experienced roofer about replacing your asphalt shingles:

• Curled or buckled shingles
• Missing shingles
• Cracked shingles
• Lifted shingles
• Ceramic granules accumulate in your gutters and downspouts

How Much is a New Asphalt Shingle Roof Going to Cost Me?

Asphalt shingle roofs are very economical for two reasons. First of all, the shingles themselves are affordable. Secondly, asphalt shingles are very easy to install, which keeps your labor costs low. So long as your roof deck is in good condition and you currently only have one layer of shingles on it, your new shingles can be applied directly over your old ones for an even faster and more economical job.