Asphalt Roofing Shingles
Contents
Nearly four-fifths of American homes have asphalt shingle roofs, making it one of the most popular roofing materials available. Asphalt works for a variety of roofing styles as well as a plethora of architectural styles—and might just be the perfect solution for your own home. Here is some more information.
Costs
An asphalt shingle roof costs between $1 and $4 per square foot, including installation. This would cost between $1,700 and $8,400 for a ranch-style home that’s about 1,700-2,100 square feet. Because the cost fluctuates so much, it’s best to get a couple price quotes from a licensed roofer and go from there.
Pros
Asphalt shingle roofing is economical and easily repaired.
Works well on a variety of roofing styles and is available in many colors, shapes, and dimensional depths.
Asphalt shingles are great at resisting the effects of weather and sunlight.
Cons
Asphalt shingles are not as durable in warmer climates.
Tend to attract mildew and moss.
Asphalt shingles have a shorter lifespan than other roofing materials.
Durability
Asphalt shingles can be relatively durable in the right climate, preferably somewhere that doesn’t get too warm. This material has an expected service life of about 20 years.
Maintenance
Since asphalt shingles tend to collect mildew and moss, it’s important to routinely check the roof and perform proper maintenance. If you find that your roof is plagued by moss and algae, you can have zinc or lead control strips installed. In addition, it’s important to check for loose shingles and keep gutters free and clear of debris that can compromise the quality of your roof.
Common Questions and Answers
What are the signs that shingles need to be replaced or repaired?
Roofing problems become evident when there are leaks and drips. Another sign that your shingles need replacing is when these granules begin to wash away. Shingles can tear off when subjected to high winds, especially when they are old and brittle. Various extremes in weather can cause cracking and curling over time.
What is the difference between the two types of asphalt shingles?
Asphalt shingles come in two types—composition and fiberglass. The composition shingles are made of wood and paper fibers turned into organic felt. Fiberglass shingles are manmade, but are also more fire-resistant than the composition shingles. Fiberglass roofing shingles are also resistant to tearing and last longer.
Both types are soaked in asphalt, which embeds mineral granules into the shingles. The coating asphalt provides has weatherproofing qualities. The mineral granules protect the shingles from the sun’s ultraviolet rays and give the shingles color and added protection against fire. Asphalt shingles come in a variety of weights; the heavier the shingle, the longer they last. You can also buy shingles that are plated in zinc to protect against algae build-up.
Materials
History
While asphalt was being imported in large quantities in the 1880’s from Trinidad, it wasn’t until 1903 that Harry M. Reynolds pushed the idea of shaping asphalt into shingles making it a viable roofing option.
References
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