If you are considering a roofing project, then the type of shingle that you choose is an important decision. Asphalt shingles are made of a base mat, a layer of asphalt, and textured synthetic felt. Its long lifespan and low cost make it an attractive choice. In addition, Asphalt shingles are a popular choice for roofing in the United States because of their affordability and durability.
Asphalt shingles are a popular roofing material because they:
- last for 25 years or more
- are affordable, with prices averaging around $500-$600 per square (100 sq ft) on the market today
- are available in 6 types, including three basic colors (black, brown, or gray) and several specialty shapes
- offer a variety of protection against the sun’s heat and UV rays
- have some fire resistance.
Asphalt shingles also have drawbacks:
- They are heavier than other materials, so they may require additional support for your home if you are replacing your roof.
- It may be more susceptible to wind damage.
- They are also difficult or impossible to repair, so if you have a leak in the space between shingles and your home, you will need an entirely new layer of asphalt shingle on top of the old one.
- Not energy efficient because they don’t insulate well.
6 Types of Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt Shingles come in different types, each of which has its own pros and cons. Understanding each type will help you make an informed decision about what kind of roofing to use on your home or business building.
Regular Shingles
Regular shingles are the most common type of asphalt roofing that you will see. They have a fixed granule and textured felt layer, so they do not need to be installed as tightly as other types of shingles. You don’t have to worry about qualifying for ice damming because of their tight installation.
Pros: They are easy to install. They also come in different colors, including three basic colors (black, brown, or gray) and several specialty shapes.
Cons: One of the cons is that regular shingles may be more susceptible to wind damage than other asphalt shingle options.
Asphalt Shingles with a Built-up Layer
This type is made up of asphalt granules, textured synthetic felt, and an ice barrier that has been built onto the fiberglass mat to offer extra protection in areas subject to heavy snow loads or frequent high wind conditions. These shingles are typically used in areas where ice dams are a major concern.
Pros: This shingle is the most puncture and tear-resistant of all asphalt shingle types, so it’s best for areas with heavy snow loads or high wind conditions. It also has some fire resistance if installed on the roof’s edge because it continues to seal around nails and other penetrations that are made to the roof.
Cons: The price is higher than that of regular shingles, and it can be difficult for DIYers because they are more complicated to install.
Textured Shingles
You may have seen these in older houses – textured shingles come with “lappets,” which will cover shingles. It gives your roof a textured appearance that is more traditional and not as modern looking.
Pros: Textured shingles are easier to install than drip edge or architectural, so they may be better for DIYers who want the classic look of an older house on their home – without having to do all the work.
Cons: Textured shingles are not as affordable or long-lasting, and they may be more susceptible to wind damage.
Architectural Shingles
Architectural Shingles are the most popular type of asphalt shingles because they’re more decorative. It is made from asphalt granules, textured synthetic felt, and a fiberglass mat with 6 tabs that will cover 6 inches of roof space.
Pros: This type is very long-lasting and durable while also being inexpensive to purchase – this is the shingle that you will most often see on new roofs in homes.
Cons: They are difficult to install, so they may not be best for DIYers who want a quick and simple solution.
Commercial Shingles
This type of asphalt shingles has been designed with commercial-grade strength and durability because they are more expensive. They can be used to create a tab shingle or lappet shingles, and they come in different colors, which provide UV protection for the roof when installed.
Pros: This type of asphalt roof lasts longer than regular commercial-grade materials because it is made of a premium type of asphalt shingles.
Cons: This is more expensive and complicated to install, which may be better for a professional installer or someone with experience in roof construction.
Drip Edge Shingles
Drip edge shingles are another type of asphalt shingles that are used to protect the roof’s edge from water. They come in different colors and have either a black or brown textured felt layer on top, which is more fire-resistant than regular felt for residential roofs.
Pros: This type of asphalt shingles will help keep your home dry by preventing water from dripping off of your roof. It also has different colors, which can be mixed and matched for a unique look on the house’s exterior.
Cons: Installation is complicated because it requires more steps to install correctly – this will need to be done by someone with experience in asphalt shingles who knows what they’re doing.
Asphalt Shingles all have their own pros and cons that can range from cost to attractiveness, but they are all designed for different purposes – so it’s best to choose one that matches what you need the most! For any roofing services, visit TCI roofing Manhattan. With their years of experience in the roofing industry, TCI roofing Manhattan is an asphalt shingle pro you need if you’re in a pinch.
