Asphalt roofing shingles are the most commonly used shingle style in Canadian homes and business. These shingles offer high levels of customisation and are less costly to install than clay or metal roofing types. Selecting the ideal types of asphalt roofing shingle is key to receive the best looking and highest functioning roof possible.

Aspects of shingle durability, warranty, and appearance, as well as the slope of your roof needs to be considered when selecting your shingles. Most asphalt shingles can withstand wind of up to 100 mph and effectively prevent water damages. Asphalt shingles should be inspected by you 2-3 times a year and annually inspected by a professional at least every 3 years.

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What Are Asphalt Shingles?

Asphalt shingles became popular in North America during the early 1900’s and continue to be widely used roofing shingles. The shingles are made of 5 components. The top granule surface layer is made of basaltic deposits like basalt and rhyolite and works to provide the colour and UV protection for the roof. Next is the asphalt layer provides water protection and dictates the relative weight of each single. The base layer of the shingle holds all the materials together and is resistant to heat or cold temperatures, which prevents shingle warping or curling. Adhesive tabs that fuse together and lock to the roof deck in the days that follow the installation. Finally, there are nailing strips that are the area where the shingles are nailed and secured to the roof.

Types Of Asphalt Shingles

There are 2 main materials are 2 main types of asphalt shingles. Organic and fibreglass materials can be made into architectural or 3-tab styles.

• Organic – Organic asphalt shingles are made of waste paper, cellulose and wood fibre. These shingles are more durable, cold-resistant and wind resistant, though they cost an average of 40% more than fibreless shingles. Organic shingles produced prior to 1980 can contain asbestos and should be removed.
• Fibreglass – Fibreglass asphalt shingles are made of random-laid fibreglass bonded with urea-polyurethane. The international Building Code Sections 1507.2.1 and 1507.2.2 state that fibreglass shingles can only be used on a roof that’s slope is 17% or greater.
• Architectural or 3-Tab – Architectural shingles are denser and offer custom ”dimensional” appeals that provide a more aesthetic look that resembles more pricey shingle styles. 3-tab shingles are uniformly cut and use less material in the manufacturing, which provides lower costs and fast installations.

Benefits Of Asphalt Roofing

Utilising asphalt roofing shingles can provide a number of benefits for your roofing systems and personal needs. Asphalt shingles have the versatility to suit any custom roof solutions with different angles, shapes materials and more. Asphalt shingles offer a diverse range of colour choices so your shingles selection will be perfect for your home or business. Asphalt singles carry a class 4-impact resistance rating, which is the highest rating possible. Fibreglass asphalt shingles have a Class A fire resistance rating. Asphalt shingles effectively block sound from entering or leaving your home or business. Most asphalt roofing shingles can be used for upwards of 20 years before requiring a repair or replacement. A skilled professional can efficiently install asphalt shingles. These benefits are all supported by the lower materials costs asphalt shingles can offer compared to other shingle styles.