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How Durable Is My Asphalt Shingle Roof?

Asphalt shingles are hard to beat when it comes to longevity and value for money. Asphalt shingles are far more cost-effective than other roofing materials due to their low labor requirements during installation. However, not all asphalt shingles are created equal, therefore it’s a good idea to educate yourself about asphalt shingles before signing the contract.

It’s safe to say that asphalt shingles are the most popular choice for a roof these days. They are placed in more than 80% of new homes because they are inexpensive and come with up to a 25-year warranty. Asphalt shingles are a durable roofing option that protects against the sun, wind, and rain thanks to their asphalt coating and fiberglass or organic basis. Over time, the asphalt on the shingles softens from the sun’s heat, and the shingles are more securely bonded together, creating a waterproof barrier.

Cost

Although cost is a major consideration when selecting asphalt shingles, you should never go with the least expensive option provided by your roofing professional. Poor-quality materials tend to deteriorate quickly when subjected to the elements, whether that be constant sunlight, fluctuating temperatures, strong winds, or even just commonplace weather hazards like hail.

However, for an additional cost, you may have a roof that can withstand even these extreme conditions. Class IV hail ratings are available in asphalt shingle roofing, for instance. That makes it as strong and long-lasting as metal and concrete tile roofs.

There are advantages and disadvantages to both fiberglass and organic asphalt shingles. Natural asphalt shingles, such as those manufactured from cellulose, are more expensive than their fiberglass counterparts but last far longer. Shingles made from organic asphalt are thicker and have a thicker layer of asphalt coating. However, fiberglass shingles are typically used when covering an old roof because of their low weight. Fire resistance is another area where fiberglass asphalt shingles excel above their cellulose counterparts.

Three-Tab Shingles Vs. Architectural Shingles

Three-tab shingles and architectural shingles are the two most prevalent types of shingles right now, and both fiberglass and organic asphalt shingles come in these styles. The most common type is the three-tab shingle, so named because each strip’s bottom border is divided into three tabs. However, architectural shingles provide aesthetic interest and depth to the roof by using many layers of material to create a layered design that replicates the look of individual shingles.

Although asphalt shingle roofs are often guaranteed for 20 to 50 years, you should almost always expect your roof to show signs of failure shortly after the warranty ends, and sometimes even earlier. When the old roof finally gives out and you need to start thinking about paying for a new one, it’s easy to go for the cheapest choice. But if you think about it throughout the course of your home’s lifespan, you may find that the more expensive roofing material is the superior investment.

We hope this article gives you a better idea of the different types of materials to consider for your next commercial roofing project. If you live in any of our service areas such as KilgoreCanton, and Longview or surrounding areas give us a call.  Noble Roofing is a local, preferred contractor that installs high-quality roofing systems for commercial and residential buildings here in the East Texas area. Please contact us if you have any queries or to obtain a free quote.

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