Asphalt Shingle Roofing

Asphalt Shingle Roofing

Lifespan: 15 to 50 years

The most widely used roofing material is the asphalt shingle. Commonly known as composite shingle, they come in two types, differentiated by the base material. They consist of either an organic fiber mat or fiberglass core. Each type is impregnated with asphalt and coated with mineral granules to add color and texture.

Two Types of Asphalt Shingles:

Asphalt shingles come in two types: Organic and Fiberglass:

• Organic shingles are based on paper (waste paper) saturated with asphalt to make it waterproof, with coatings of adhesive salt and ceramic granules embedded on top.  While organic shingles are more durable than fiberglass ones. They are less environmentally-friendly due to their high asphalt (oil based) content.
• Fiberglass shingles offer excellent fire protection. Today, fiberglass shingles are more commonly used and are slowly, but surely, replacing the organic shingles.  Fiberglass shingles are made with a base layer of glass fiber reinforcing mat. This mat is coated with asphalt, which contains mineral fillers and makes the shingle waterproof.

Advantages of Asphalt Shingle Roofing

• They work well on a steep-sloped structures.
• Versatile, they adapt easily to different applications.
• Easy to cut, fasten and fit, shingles are considered the easiest roofing materials to install (and ease of installation keeps the cost down).
• Asphalt shingles don’t require specialized accessories for roof edges, wall terminations, and chimney or vent flashings.
• They require low maintenance and can be walked on without damaging the material.
• Although asphalt is not the lightest type of material, asphalt roof shingles are lightweight. They are compatible with most roof types.
• They come in a wide range of prices, sizes and colors.
• Roofing repairs are relatively easy with composite shingles.
• Most brands offer Class A fire protection.

Disadvantages of Asphalt Shingle Roofing

• Shingles are susceptible to high wind damage – strong winds can uplift or tear shingles off easily.
• Asphalt roof shingles not only transfer solar heat into your home, they can become damaged by the heat.
• Mildew problems caused by excess moisture pooling in shady areas of your roof can damage shingles easily.
• Depending on the type of shingle, asphalt roofs are easily outlasted by tile, slate, and metal, lasting on average 15 to 30 years.

We offer no pressure free inspection and estimate. Our clients appreciate the professionalism of our knowledgeable staff. When you call us out to inspect/estimate your roof we will provide you with a free estimate for repairs or replacement.

We service apartments and multi-family dwellings throughout the Portland OR and Vancouver WA area.

Back To Roofing Materials