Asphalt Shingles Guide
Get Answers to Ohio Homeowners’ Most Common Questions About Asphalt Shingles
There are so many types of roofing shingles on the market. As a homeowner, it can be confusing to try to sift through all the information and noise and find the material that is right for your home.
This guide can help break through all that noise and help narrow down your decision by providing extensive, comprehensive information about asphalt roof shingles.
The Popularity of Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material in the United States. They are installed on about 75% of the homes in North America.
Also known as composition shingles or composite shingles, asphalt shingles are made of a felt paper base coated with a waterproof layer of asphalt and surfaced with ceramic-coated opaque mineral granules. Asphalt shingles work on nearly all types of roofs, except for flat roofs and those with a pitch of less than 2.5 inches.
Here are the top reasons why asphalt shingles are so popular:
- Durable
- Low maintenance
- Cost-effective
- Easy to repair
- Suitable for different types of roofs
- A variety of styles, textures, and color choices
- Boost energy efficiency
- Customizable
- Weather resistant
- Lightweight
- Superior protection against fire hazards
Are Asphalt Shingles Eco-Friendly?
If you’re like most consumers, you are seeking ways to reduce your carbon footprint. One of the ways to do this is by choosing a more environmentally friendly, energy-efficient roof material.
Here are the ways that asphalt shingles are eco-friendly:
- Reduce raw material usage
- Long lifespan
- Energy efficient
- Recyclable and can be repurposed for other asphalt-based products
Owens Corning, a manufacturer of asphalt roofing, is committed to eco-friendly asphalt shingle solutions. Here are the company’s sustainability goals:
- Increasing the positive impact its products have on the world
- Reducing environmental footprint
- Increasing social handprint
Are Asphalt Shingles Wind-Resistant?
Strong winds can cause devastating damage to some types of roofs. Owens Corning asphalt shingles are designed to be exceptionally wind resistant. Here’s how:
- Include a nail strip on top of the shingle to keep the fasteners in place during wind uplift
- Come with a 130 mph wind warranty
- Offer asphalt shingles with a class 4 rating, which means they can resist hail impact and are designed to withstand winds of up to 110 mph
Are Asphalt Shingles Resistant to Mold and Algae?
Algae can cause permanent stains, but it’s more than just unsightly. Algae feed off of the asphalt’s limestone. This can weaken your roof’s structural integrity, ultimately causing the shingles to detach and weaken your roof’s ability to reflect sunlight.
The good news is, asphalt shingles can be effective at reducing algae growth. Owens Corning carries algae-resistant asphalt shingles that include copper granules, which inhibit algae growth.
What Kind of Warranties Do Asphalt Shingles Typically Have?
When it comes to asphalt shingle warranties, there are three main types:
- Standard manufacturer’s warranty that covers the products
- A workmanship warranty from your contractor that covers only the installation
- Extended manufacturer’s warranty that covers contractor workmanship and additional coverage for the products
Owens Corning offers one of the best warranties in the industry. It includes:
- Coverage for all roof systems and components including flashing, wood decking, and fasteners
- Non-prorated, continuous coverage for defective materials which includes labor costs for repairs and replacements, which is extendable for up to 50 years
- Workmanship coverage against installation errors, with prorating beginning after a certain number of years and including labor, removal, and disposal costs
The best way to protect your warranty is:
- Register your warranty
- Stay with your original contractor
Are Asphalt Shingles Difficult to Install?
One of the benefits of asphalt shingles is that they are easy and quick to install and provide flexibility during the installation process. Most new roofs can be installed in three to five days. To install asphalt roof shingles, your contractor will take the following steps:
- Remove old roof
- Add metal drip edge
- Nail new valley flashing to the roofing deck and seal it with roof caulk
- Install roof shingles
- Clean up!
It is especially important to work with a skilled, experienced contractor to ensure your new asphalt shingle roof is installed correctly and according to manufacturer specifications.
For example, asphalt shingle roofs require ridge cap shingles to prevent moisture from infiltrating your home. An inexperienced contractor may neglect to install ridge roof cap shingles or do so incorrectly.
Here are the other reasons you should hire a professional roofer to install your new asphalt shingles:
- Improperly installed flashing can cause your roof to leak
- Incorrectly sealed roof valleys can cause moisture to intrude
- Professional contractors are insured and provide warranties
American Way Exteriors – Premium Asphalt Shingle Roofing Products and Expert Installation
At American Way Exteriors, we are homeowners, too! That is why we understand that it’s so important to stay ahead of the curve when your home’s roof is showing signs of wear. When it’s time for a roof replacement, you want to work with a trustworthy, experienced contractor. At American Way Exteriors, we have helped thousands of Ohio home and property owners install durable siding and roofing materials they can depend on for years to come.
Learn more about why asphalt shingles are an excellent choice for your roof!
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