The most widely used roofing material in the world, asphalt roofs are cost effective, relatively easy to install, and their materials are widely available. Essentially, an asphalt roof is one that is constructed from asphalt shingles or roll products. Moreover, asphalt roofs are a durable choice for homeowners and they come in two varieties: fibreglass and organic.
Fiberglass Asphalt Roofs
Fiberglass shingles are made from a base mat of woven fiberglass which is covered with a waterproof asphalt coating. Then, ceramic granules are applied to this coating to protect from UV ray damage. The composition of fiberglass shingles requires less asphalt than organic alternatives yet they maintain their durability and strength. Fiberglass shingles are light weight and provide a thin roofing material that installs quickly and easily. Moreover, fiberglass shingles have a higher fire rating than organic shingles, and they also have a longer warranty. Though not developed until the 1980s, fiberglass shingles quickly became the go-to material for asphalt roofs among contractors and homeowners in North America.
On the other hand, organic shingles are the traditional asphalt roof material and they are made from a layer of recycled felt paper which is saturated with asphalt to improve waterproofing. Then, the shingles are coated with adhesive asphalt onto which ceramic granules are topped. Organic shingles require 40 percent more asphalt than fiberglass alternatives making them heavier and more costly. On the other hand, organic shingles are flexible and durable, though they are more prone to warp over time. When it comes to making an environmentally conscious choice, organic shingles are also inferior to fiberglass alternatives.
Advantages of Asphalt Roofing
One of the most important benefits of asphalt roofs is that they stand up well to a wide range of weather conditions including hot year-round climates, to windy, snowy, cold winter climates. As a cost effective roofing solution, asphalt also leads the way. Asphalt shingles are manufactured in high volumes and they are easy to install making them easily one of the cheapest, most effective roofing options available. Moreover, their strength and flexibility make asphalt roofs suitable to any roof style. They are low roof maintenance and relatively easy to repair, especially for professional roofers.
Another major benefit of asphalt shingles is that they are fire, wind, and water resistant. Still, even from a design point of view, asphalt shingles are available in a wide range of colours and styles making them an excellent choice for any style of home from classic to contemporary. In fact, asphalt shingles can even be made to look like other materials including wood or slate so you can achieve a more elegant, expensive look for your home without the added cost.
