Asphalt shingles are by far the most popular roofing material. They are relatively inexpensive to produce and straightforward to install, translating to significant initial cost savings over metal, tile, and wood shakes. The longevity and durability of asphalt shingles stacks up to most of the alternatives as well, especially considering the price point. Finally, asphalt shingles are available in a number of styles and colors, allowing you to find the ideal aesthetic to complement your home’s exterior finishes.

Types of Asphalt Shingles

When you’re choosing asphalt shingles for your home, you’ll typically see two different varieties: fiberglass shingles and organic shingles.

• Organic mat shingles are the more traditional of the two and begin with a mat composed of recycled felt paper. The paper is then coated with asphalt to promote waterproofing before receiving another layer of adhesive asphalt, into which tiny ceramic granules are embedded. Traditional organic mat shingles offer premium waterproofing and are flexible for breakage resistance. However, their thickness promotes water absorption over time, and they rest somewhat heavily on your roof.
• Fiberglass shingles consist of a woven fiberglass mat coated with a single asphalt layer for waterproofing and adhesion of ceramic granules. Less asphalt is necessary for these shingles than their organic mat counterparts, making them much lighter on your roof. Their composition also lends itself to a better fire rating and a longer warranty than organic mat shingles.

Styles of Asphalt Shingles

Once you’ve chosen a type of asphalt shingle, you’ll also need to decide on a style. Regardless of type, shingles are typically available in two different styles: three-tab and architectural.

• Three-tab shingles are exactly what they sound like – one shingle separated by cutouts into three sections, or “tabs.” The result is a single piece that appears to be three separate shingles.
• Architectural shingles are not separated into tabs but include an additional asphalt layer. This gives them the appearance of having an “extra layer of shingles” and results in a dimensional look.

Let Us Help You

When it’s time to choose asphalt shingles for your roof, it’s important to choose a type, style, and color that will not only match your home’s exterior but provide superior waterproofing and durability. In addition, you’ll need to select a shingle with a warranty ideal for your situation. For assistance with these and other shingle selection needs – and to schedule your roofing project – contact the professionals at Rogue Valley Roofing today.