Everything You Need to Know About Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular choices for homeowners across the United States. This versatile, durable, and cost-effective roofing option offers a myriad of benefits, making it an attractive option for new construction and roof replacements. This blog has everything you need to know about asphalt shingles, from their composition and types to their installation, benefits, and maintenance.
Composition and Types of Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt roofing shingles are composed of fiberglass or organic mat core coated with asphalt and embedded with ceramic granules. This combination provides strength, flexibility, and weather resistance, making them suitable for various climates and architectural styles. Asphalt is the primary waterproofing agent in these shingles. It is typically mixed with fillers, stabilizers, and adhesive agents to enhance its properties.
They come in many colors and sizes, allowing homeowners to choose the desired appearance for their roof. Common types of asphalt shingles include:
Three-Tab Shingles
Three-tab shingles are the most basic and economical type of asphalt roof shingles. They consist of a single layer with tabs cut along their lower edge to create the appearance of three separate shingles. Three-tab shingles have a uniform appearance and are lightweight, making them easy to install.
Architectural Shingles (Laminated Shingles)
Architectural shingles, also known as dimensional or laminate shingles, are thicker and more durable than three-tab asphalt roof shingles. They have multiple layers of asphalt and often feature a textured appearance that mimics the look of wood or slate. Architectural shingles come in a wide range of styles and colors, offering greater design flexibility than three-tab shingles.
Luxury Shingles
Luxury shingles are premium-grade asphalt roofing shingles designed to replicate the appearance of natural materials like cedar shakes or slate. They often have enhanced durability, impact resistance, and weather protection features. Luxury shingles may incorporate advanced technologies such as algae resistance and enhanced wind resistance.
Specialty Shingles
Specialty shingles include various products designed for specific applications or aesthetic preferences. Examples include solar-reflective shingles, cool roof shingles, and impact-resistant shingles. These shingles may offer additional benefits such as energy efficiency or insurance discounts.
Consult a knowledgeable roofing company in Indianapolis, such as Jackson Contracting, to ensure that you select the most suitable asphalt shingles for your specific needs and preferences.
Benefits of Asphalt Shingles for Your Roofing Project in Indianapolis
Affordability
Asphalt shingles are one of the most cost-effective roofing materials available, making them an excellent choice for budget-conscious homeowners. This is one of the key benefits of asphalt shingles that makes them a preferred roofing material for many homeowners.
Durability
Modern asphalt shingles are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, including wind, rain, snow, and UV exposure. They can offer reliable protection for your home for many years. Importantly, the asphalt shingle installation should be done properly to ensure the roof’s longevity.
Low Maintenance
Asphalt shingles require minimal maintenance, typically only needing occasional inspections and repairs. They are resistant to rot, decay, and insect damage lowering the shingle roof cost. Moreover, asphalt shingle installation is relatively easy and quick for skilled contractors.
Fire Resistance
Fiberglass-based asphalt shingles have excellent fire resistance properties, providing an added layer of safety for your home.
Energy Efficiency
Some asphalt shingles are designed with reflective coatings or granules that help reduce heat absorption, improving energy efficiency and lowering cooling costs during hot weather.
Key Factors to Consider When Selecting Asphalt Roofing Shingles
- Quality and brand reputation: Choose from reputable manufacturers known for durability and warranty coverage.
- Material type: Decide between fiberglass or organic-based shingles based on preferences and climate.
- Style and appearance: Select shingles that complement your home’s architecture and curb appeal.
- Warranty coverage: Review warranties for defects, durability, and weather resistance.
- Energy efficiency: Look for reflective coatings or granules to improve energy savings.
- Cost and budget: Balance upfront costs with long-term durability and warranty coverage.
- Installation requirements: Ensure compatibility with your roof’s design and consult roofing contractors.
Our roofing experts at Jackson Contracting can help you choose the best asphalt shingle option.
Best Practices for Professional Asphalt Shingle Installation
Roofing contractors at Jackson Contracting typically follow a systematic process to install asphalt shingle roofs, ensuring quality and durability. This is an overview of how the professionals do it:
Preparation
Experienced contractors will assess the existing roof for any damage or issues that need to be addressed before installation. They will remove old shingles, underlayment, and flashing as necessary, ensuring a clean and smooth surface for the new roof. They will also inspect the roof deck for any signs of rot, damage, or structural issues and make repairs as needed.
Pre-Installation Process
The roofers install a waterproof underlayment, such as felt paper or synthetic material, over the roof deck to provide an additional barrier against water infiltration. They will install flashing around roof penetrations, such as vents, chimneys, and skylights, to prevent water leakage at these vulnerable areas. The contractors will install starter shingles along the eaves of the roof to provide a secure foundation for the first row of full-sized shingles.
Shingle Installation
Roofers will begin installing shingles at the bottom edge of the roof and work upwards, overlapping each row to shed water effectively. They will use roofing nails to secure each shingle, following manufacturer guidelines for placement and spacing. Ridge vents or other ventilation systems will be installed along the peak of the roof to allow hot air to escape from the attic and cool air to enter.
Cleanup and Inspection
Professional roofing companies remove all debris from the roof and clean up the work area to ensure a safe and tidy environment. They conduct a final inspection of the installed roof to check for proper alignment, secure fastening, and any signs of damage or defects. The roofers will also provide you with documentation and warranty information.
Common Issues with Asphalt Roofing Shingles
These are a few common problems with roof shingles:
- Leaks can occur due to damaged or missing shingles
- May become cracked, curled, or blistered over time
- Inadequate attic ventilation can lead to moisture buildup
- Ice dams can form along the eaves of the roof leading to water infiltration
- Algae and moss growth can compromise the integrity of shingles
Maintenance Tips for Asphalt Shingle Roofs
- Conduct regular inspections of the roof
- Address any repairs promptly
- Keep gutters and downspouts free of debris
- Trim back overhanging tree branches
- Reduce moisture buildup with proper attic ventilation
Choose Jackson Contracting for Your Asphalt Shingle Roofing Needs
These are a few aspects that set us apart from the competition:
Reputation
Jackson Contracting has built a solid reputation for reliability, professionalism, and customer satisfaction, as evidenced by numerous positive reviews and testimonials from satisfied clients.
Licensed and Insured
As a licensed and insured roofing contractor, Jackson Contracting provides peace of mind knowing that your roofing project is in capable hands and fully protected.
Attention to Detail
From the initial consultation to the final inspection, Jackson Contracting pays attention to every detail to ensure a seamless and hassle-free roofing experience.
Swift Workmanship
Our team understands the importance of fast and smooth execution, ensuring that your roofing needs are met efficiently and with minimal disruption.
Get Your Roof Done Right and Fast with Jackson Contracting
The team at Jackson Contracting, Inc. is highly skilled and experienced in asphalt shingle roofing installation, allowing us to complete projects quickly and efficiently. We use only the best materials. Our efficient processes and respectful approach ensure that your property is treated with care and consideration throughout the project. We also make sure that clients can carry on with their routine with minimal interruption. Give us a call today at 317-214-8124.