Asphalt roofing shingles are the most popular type of roofing material, because they are easy to install, lack regular maintenance and are inexpensive. Available in a wide variety of styles and colors, asphalt roofing is an easy way to update the look of your home while protecting it.
Asphalt roofing offers a wide variety of styles and types, in part to accommodate different roof pitches and address specific architectural features.
Asphalt roofing also is available in multiple colors to complement the exterior of your home. While gray complements almost every color, dark green can add a traditional look to your home. Options for the finished edge of the shingle can range from functional to whimsical. In general, more intricately patterned shingles create a better visual impact on smaller roofs.
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There are two types of asphalt shingles: fiberglass and organic. Because fiberglass asphalt roofing is made with a fiberglass mat, it is lighter, easier to work with and fire-resistant. Fiberglass shingles are most commonly used in the South and Midwest, where flatter roofs are more common.
Because they have a cellulose fiber base, organic shingles must be double-coated in asphalt for better durability. The mat type also increases flexibility in cold weather, making this a popular option in northern states.
Industry standards should also determine your asphalt roofing choice. Although warranties often guarantee 25 to 40 years of use, many roofs fail before then. Look for a shingle that meets basic standards. For fiberglass options, that means it meets ASTM D-3462, ensuring it has sufficient tear strength and can withstand nail withdrawal. Shingles that meet these tests are stamped with the Underwriters Laboratory certification.
Organic mat shingles are evaluated using a different process. ASTM D-225 is the standard that this type of asphalt roofing should meet for use on your roof. Normally, organic shingles are tougher than fiberglass shingles, making the minimum tear and nail-pull resistance requirements for certification even higher.
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Asphalt shingles also are rated by weight. In general, heavier asphalt roofing indicates better quality. This is especially true for organic mat asphalt roofing. The weight required for your home depends on your climate. Areas with high winds and hail should have a heavier shingle than others.
Asphalt roofing also is affected by the installation process. A good installation will allow your roofing to live up to its warranty, while a poor installation can greatly reduce the useful life of asphalt roofing while voiding your warranty.
Installing new asphalt roofing can be completed in a day, but it is important to choose a licensed contractor who will do the job correctly. Staple guns should never be used on asphalt roofing, and the attic ventilation should also be checked. Inadequate ventilation can shorten the life of your roof, so it’s important to correct any problems before beginning roofing.
Asphalt roofing can only be installed during the warm part of the year. It is important that the asphalt roofing is warm enough to slightly mold to the piece on which it is placed. This creates a better bond than an installation in cold weather. High quality nails also should be used, especially when high-quality shingles are being installed.
Once you have chosen a contractor to install your roofing, he/she can be your best resource in choosing the best material for your home. A local professional will be able to tell you the most commonly used materials in your area and bring any additional roofing challenges to your attention before you make your final decision.
Filed under: Home Improvement Help on February 11th, 2008 | No Comments »
