Shingle Roofing Douglasville, GA

Shingle Roofing Replacement Options

Shingle roofing, also known as composite shingle roofing, is a type of roofing material that features an asphalt coating for waterproofing over a base material. These shingles are primarily used for residential buildings and other sloped roofs. First introduced in 1901, they have become a staple in American housing.

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Composite (asphalt) shingles are an affordable roofing option available in various textures, sizes, and colors. They are produced from two base materials: fiberglass and organic. While their durability and life expectancy are similar to other roofing materials like slate, clay tiles, or metal, they offer an attractive visual appeal and property protection at a lower cost.

However, they are not ideal for regions with significant temperature fluctuations, as the material can split, compromising the roof.

This flexible, cost-effective, energy-efficient roofing product is easy to install and typically lasts between 20-30 years. Despite its simplicity, it is crucial to hire a qualified roofer for installation to ensure proper sealing.

There are three basic designs of asphalt shingles: 3-tab, laminated shingles, and premium shingles. Laminated shingles are the most commonly used design.

Roof repairs are essential to maintaining a home’s overall structural integrity. This includes fixing leaks, replacing damaged shingles, and addressing other issues caused by weather or wear and tear. Quality roof repairs enhance a home’s aesthetic appeal and ensure safety and comfort, protecting against harsh weather conditions.

Asphalt Shingles Base Materials

There are two types of base materials used in the production of asphalt shingles: organic and fiberglass.

Organic Shingles

Organic shingles are made from recycled materials such as waste paper, wood fiber, cellulose fiber, or other organic materials. These are coated with asphalt to make them waterproof. After this transformation, an adhesive asphalt top coating is applied, followed by ceramic granules. Their life expectancy is around 20 years, depending on humidity and saturation.

Organic shingles contain about 40% more asphalt per 100 sq. feet than fiberglass shingles, making them more durable. However, they are thicker, more expensive, heavier, and more susceptible to fire due to their paper-based nature. Organic shingles are not eco-friendly because of their high oil (asphalt) content.

Fiberglass Shingles

Fiberglass shingles are made from a base layer of reinforced fiberglass mat. This mat is covered with asphalt, making the shingles waterproof. Although not as durable as organic shingles, they offer excellent protection against fire and UV damage. Fiberglass shingles are lightweight, reliable, thinner than organic shingles, and cost-effective. Over the years, fiberglass shingles have evolved and are becoming a popular choice for consumers.

Varieties of Asphalt Shingle Design

Asphalt shingles come in three styles:

3-Tab or Strip Shingles: The simplest, most common, and least expensive design. Thinner than laminated shingles, this lightweight, single-layer design is often used in low-budget buildings like rental properties.

Architectural Shingles: These shingles, also known as dimensional or architecturally laminated shingles, add a visually appealing multi-dimensional look to roofs. They are popular for their enhanced aesthetics and longer lifespan compared to 3-tab shingles. Heavier and thicker, their installation requires professional expertise.

Premium or High-end Shingles: Known for their unique appearance and higher cost, premium shingles are energy-efficient, long-lasting, shock-resistant, and solar-reflective, making them superior to both 3-tab and laminated shingles.

Benefits of Using Roofing Shingles:

  • Fairly durable
  • Solar reflectivity
  • Available in various shapes, textures, and colors
  • Relatively resistant to wind damage (with well-fastened underlay)
  • Fire-resistant (especially fiberglass shingles))
  • Easy to install
  • Fairly impressive lifespan
  • Cost-effective
  • Low maintenance

Drawbacks of Using Shingles

Despite their affordability, there are some disadvantages:

  • Cheaper grades are prone to wind damage over time (especially 3-tab shingles). Note: We offer high-grade GAF shingles!
  • Should not be installed in frigid weather conditions
  • Best for consistent weather conditions (either consistently cold or consistently warm)

Repair and Maintenance

Regular inspections, evaluations, and cleaning of debris and moss on shingles prevent premature deterioration. Moss and debris can be removed by applying zinc chloride or copper sulfate solutions and thoroughly rinsing. Ensure proper ventilation at all times.

Attach copper or zinc strips at the roof ridge to prevent moss and algae growth. When reconstructing or installing a new roof, use appropriate equipment and PPE. If necessary, employ a professional roofer. Also, check your roof for damage after significant wind or hail storms.

Summary

Most shingle roofing systems are petroleum-based products designed for low-slope roof houses and structures. They can be single-layered or multi-dimensional, offering durability, ease of installation, cost-effectiveness, and low maintenance. However, asphalt shingle roofing products are not environmentally friendly, raising concerns about their recyclability. Despite the simple and affordable nature of asphalt shingle roofing systems, contact a licensed roofing professional before making a final decision.