Asphalt Roofing Guide

asphalt roofing guide

According to roofing contractors in Columbus GA there are many different types of roof products on the market including metal and slate but asphalt shingles are still the most popular for new residential and commercial buildings because of easy installation, good longevity and lower cost compared to other roofing products. On the negative side, not all asphalt shingles have the same quality and longevity so this article is to educate you on the different types of asphalt shingles so you can make the right choice when it comes to building your new home or replacing your existing worn out roof.

Asphalt shingle quality and thickness determine the life span. For example, architectural roof shingles are laminated dimensional shingles manufactured with a fiberglass mat that are coated with asphalt which makes it durable in harsh weather elements like hail and wind.

This type of roof shingle last longer than three tab shingles and cost more. The top of architectural roof shingles are coated with mineral granules which come in many different colors and depending on the color will reflect more heat from the sun with lighter colors. On the top of every shingle is a strip of asphalt that is covered by the next shingle which heats up in the sun and bonds them together thereby helping to provide a resistance to wind. One thing that can decrease the longevity of shingles and make them more brittle is heat so if you live in sunnier areas like Columbus GA, expect to replace your roof more frequently.

Three Tab Shingles

This type of roof shingle does not have a dimensional appearance, more flat and lighter in weight because they do not have as much asphalt compared to architectural roof shingles and have a shorter lifespan making them less expensive. Because they are lighter in weight makes them more prone to get blown off by high wind. Asphalt is a petroleum product so over time the oil comes to the top of the shingles and gets washed away by rain water causing them to get extremely dry and crack. For this reason architectural shingles will last longer because they have more asphalt making them more thicker than three tab.

Architectural Roof Shingles

Architectural roof shingles have a better appearance than three tab because of the dimensional look and also have more asphalt making them thicker which cost more than three tab. Because they are thicker and heavier makes them less prone to get blown off by high winds. More than likely you will see more expensive homes with architectural roof shingles. Warranty on these shingles will be generally 25 to 30 years compared to three tab which normally have 15 to 20 year warranty. Decades ago the three tab shingles had more asphalt content and lasted closer to 30 years. Like everything else you get less and pay more. Remember long time ago when ice cream was actually a half gallon and less money for what is now less than a half gallon

Asphalt shingles cost less money to install but since the longevity is not as good as metal roofing, you will have to replace you roof two or three times compared to the 50 year life expectancy of metal roofs. If you plan to sell your home soon, go with the cheaper asphalt roofing.

Conclusion

Generally you should inspect your roof at least two times a year and after any major storms with high winds. To prevent any future possible roof leaks, look for any shingles that have curled edges and are cracked and brittle. If you see any damage, call a roofing contractor in Columbus GA as soon as possible because you do not want any water or moisture in your attic that can cause mold. Also make sure your attic is being ventilated correctly to prevent any moisture and excessive heat which can shorten the life expectancy of your roof shingles. In case you will be selling your home soon after getting a new roof, make sure the warranty is transferrable to the new home owner.

Call One Stop Roofing, LLC for any roof inspection you might need or to check your attic for proper ventilation. We can also replace your old worn out roof or install a new one if you are building a new home in Columbus GA, Phenix City AL or Harris County GA.





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