Asphalt Shingles: Cost Effective Roofing

Of all the roofing options available for your home, asphalt shingles are by far the most popular. An estimated 80% of all American houses are built with asphalt roof shingles because of their performance, as well as their price.

Types of Asphalt Shingles
While there are many options available in regards to price, color, and style, there are actually only two kinds of asphalt roof shingles on the market. Conventional shingles have a cellulose fiber base that is derived from wood. They have two layers of asphalt, the first soft and flexible, the second tough and hard.

Fiberglass based asphalt shingles are made with only the tough, hard type of asphalt, which makes them lightweight and easy to work with. They have a better fire rating than traditional shingles, but aren't as flexible and have problems in cold climates because they become brittle. The fiberglass shingles are a newer technology and are generally preferred in warm regions, while the older style organic shingles are used almost exclusively in the northern U.S. and Canada.

Problems with Asphalt Roof Shingles
While they are certainly popular and easily less expensive than other roof material, a common complaint about asphalt shingles has to do with their durability. Asphalt shingles come, as do most roofing materials, with a warranty. This warranty can be for as long as 50 years in some cases. The problem is that asphalt shingles have been known to become damaged before the warranty expires, and some companies don't pay out enough to sufficiently compensate the homeowner.

When it comes to asphalt shingles, it can be difficult to tell if you're getting a quality product. Before the advent of fiberglass based shingles, comparing the weight of the shingles could tell you a lot about their durability; the heavier the shingle is, the longer it will perform. This rule still holds relatively true for organic based shingles. Basically, when choosing asphalt shingles, opting for a more expensive shingle up front can often save you money in the long run. Look for shingles that say explicitly that they meet or surpass all manufacturing standards.

Looks and Styles
Asphalt shingles are produced in many different styles and colors to match any home you can imagine. Traditional shingles are known as "3 tab" and must be lined up with care to have a proper appearance. Newer shingle designs are becoming more popular because they are easier and faster to install than the old 3 tab style, though they are a larger initial investment.

The color of your shingles may make a difference in your energy costs. White shingles reflect significantly more light than do black ones. This means that black and other dark colored shingles pull heat into the home through the attic, which could lead to higher cooling costs.

Recycling Asphalt Shingles
Old asphalt shingles can now be recycled into new roads, pothole patches, and other commercial products. In the past, shingles have added millions of tons of waste to our landfills each year. Those concerned about this statistic should ask their contractor about shingle recycling programs in the area.