20September 2018
Types of shingles
Shingles are your roof’s first line of defense against environmental damage. The type of shingles you chose is the biggest factor in determining the longevity of your roof.
For example, premium shingles constructed with heavy-duty felt or fiberglass asphalt-saturated mats coated with ceramic granules will provide a longer roof life.
There are many types of shingles available for your roof therefore professional advice is crucial in making your final decision.
Different companies call their shingles of equal quality by different names for the same overall product so choose carefully.
Most shingles are either of the three-in-one construction (three tabs) or they are of the laminate variety meaning layered construction.
Laminate shingles also known as architectural shingles are usually of the premium variety with heavy-duty construction, they can range from 30 years to a lifetime guarantee.
Organic /Asphalt shingles consist of an organic paper-based mat saturated with asphalt to make it waterproof.
A coating of ceramic granules is then applied. Organic shingles typically have more asphalt in their construction therefore they weigh slightly more than their fiberglass counterpart.
They are however less flexible and are more prone to breakage in cold weather. They are at higher risk of water absorption as they age due to their paper base construction
Fiberglass /Asphalt shingles are thinner and lighter and carry a better fire rating than organic paper-based shingles. They are more flexible and perform better in cold climate applications.
They are only thinner in appearance because the starting mat is more easily saturated with asphalt so less overall asphalt is used.
Fiberglass shingles are warranted the same from the manufacturer as organics.
Most laminate shingles are of fiberglass construction.
Call us today for a free estimate for your shingle replacement needs.