Asphalt shingles have been the traditional choice of most homeowners for over 100 years due to their low cost and easy installation, making them one of the most widely used roofing materials. Here's what makes these shingles stand out from other options.

Benefits of Asphalt Shingles:

One of the main reasons asphalt roof shingles are so popular is their affordability. Typically, asphalt shingles are less expensive than metal, slate, wood shakes, and tile. They're also easy for professional contractors to install, reducing project time and labor costs.

Since asphalt shingle roofs are versatile, they are used across the country. An asphalt shingle is composed of a fiberglass layer coated with asphalt, which gives it its water-shedding properties. Granules are added to help protect against UV rays. These qualities mean asphalt shingles can protect your property against a wide variety of elements, including wind, snow, rain—and even sunshine.

Asphalt shingle roofs can also help keep roof noise low during rainstorms. Many of them have a UL Class A fire rating (the best rating possible). And some asphalt shingles—known as “cool” asphalt shingles—are highly reflective and may help reduce the heat absorbed into the roof by reflecting the sun’s rays.

Composition roofs (asphalt-shingle roofs) come in many different colors. While homeowners can choose among many traditional blacks and browns, other options are available, including gray, red, and blue. You can also choose from various styles and textures. These qualities allow for immense design versatility that most other roof materials can't match.

Types of Asphalt Shingles:

There are three main types of asphalt shingles—3-tab, dimensional, and luxury—allowing you the flexibility to choose the right type of shingle based on your home and budget:

• 3-tab shingles are the most economical. They get their name from the three-tab design that connects with the others to create a flat appearance.
• Dimensional shingles, also known as architectural shingles, are constructed from multiple layers of fiberglass laminated together to create a dimensional appearance.
• Designer shingles are the most expensive option. They’re manufactured to look like high-end materials, such as slate, giving them an elegant and sophisticated look without requiring the roof to support the weight of actual slate. However, the cost of a Designer Shingle roof can be considerably higher than the cost of other types of asphalt shingle roofs.

How Long Do Asphalt Shingles Last?

Several factors determine how long asphalt shingle roofs last, including the frequency and significance of maintenance performed, the types of shingles you use, and the weather conditions in the area.

If your home needs a new roof or a replacement, contact a professional contractor who will ensure you get the best shingles for your home’s needs.

How many roofing shingles do I need?

‍A roofing project can introduce homeowners to many new terms, and one of the first you’re likely to come up against is “roofing square.” Measuring in squares is unique to the roofing industry—understanding how these measurements work can be a vital part of planning your roof repair or replacement.

How much does it cost to shingle a roof?

When preparing your free estimate, roofing contractors consider many variables that are specific to your roof, your preferences, your budget and goals, and even where you live.

Does your home need a roof replacement?

‍If you’re wondering about the state of your current roofing system, get it inspected as soon as possible. Phoenix Exteriors offers free roof inspections with licensed roofing professionals. We carry some of the best shingles on the market, including GAF Roofing WindProven™ Limited Warranty Shingles—the industry’s first wind warranty with no maximum wind speed limitation—for maximum roofing protection.

If you need a licensed professional to inspect your roof, contact Phoenix Exteriors today and schedule a free inspection!

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