ABOUT ASPHALT SHINGLES

There are three main types of asphalt shingle: organic, laminated organic, and fiberglass. Organic asphalt shingles are made from paper or felt saturated with asphalt to make it waterproof. A top coating is applied, and ceramic granules are then embedded. The granules may contain a portion of copper or tin to discourage moss growth on the roof. Laminated asphalt shingles are made from two distinct layers. They are heavier, more expensive, and more durable than normal organic asphalt shingles.

Fiberglass shingles are based on a fiberglass reinforcing mat, to which is applied asphalt with mineral fillers. Fiberglass reinforcement was developed as an alternative to the traditional asbestos paper reinforcement.

The durability of all these shingles is affected by sudden changes in ambient temperature, known as ambient shock. Proper roof ventilation is also important in order to extend the life of the shingles. Staple guns should not be used for fixing; traditional roofing nails are the best method.

CHOOSING THE BEST TYPE

The key considerations when choosing the best type are construction and style.

Construction

There are two main types of construction for: organic, and fiberglass.

Organic shingles are made from paper (usually waste paper) which is saturated with asphalt to make it waterproof. A top coating of adhesive asphalt is applied, into which ceramic granules are embedded to provide additional protection. As an option, some of the granules can contain leachable copper, which is ceramically coated, and reduces discoloration from algae forming on the surface. Algae resistant shingles typically carry and 5 to 10 year warranty against algae growth.

Fiberglass shingles are constructed on a base layer of glass fiber reinforced mat. This is coated with asphalt containing mineral fillers. Higher quality versions use two layers of fiberglass which are bonded together with asphalt sealant. These are heavier, more durable, and more expensive. They can give a more contoured look to the roof surface, more closely resembling slates or wood shingles.

Organic shingles are cheaper than fiberglass shingles. But they are less durable, and are more prone to damage in storms or high winds. They are also environmentally less friendly, because they contain about 40% more asphalt than a fiberglass roof shingle.

Shingle durability is ranked by warranted life, which may range from twenty to fifty years. Fiberglass asphalt shingles typically qualify for a class A fire rating; by contrast paper-based organic shingles are prone to fire damage, and quality at best for a class B fire rating.

Styles

In terms of style, organic shingles typically look quite flat and basic, like small sheets of asphalt. By contrast fiberglass shingles provide a much more realistic imitation of either wood shingles or slates. Their contoured depth provides deep shadows, and a variety of realistic patterns is available. These include various regular geometric shapes based on historic slate designs, and a variety of random patterns imitating traditional wood shingles.

Installation

When applying new shingles to an existing building it is advisable to remove all the existing shingles, rather than applying new over old. Removal allows for a careful inspection of the plywood roof decking, parts of which may need replacement or repair.

LEADING USA MANUFACTURERS

The following leading manufacturers, selected as the best by Abacus Construction Index, have comprehensive websites, with information on all aspects, including online catalogs, colors and materials, and care and maintenance. The main point of difference between manufacturers is the type of construction: organic, laminated organic, and fiberglass. Manufacturers also vary in the range of colors and finishes which they offer.

CertainTeed. CertainTeed, which is headquartered in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, is a large North American manufacturer of building materials. It is a subsidiary of Saint Gobain of France, which has 26,000 employees in North America. CertainTeed is a leading manufacturer of asphalt shingles. Its product range is classified into Luxury, Designer, and Traditional. Three popular products are available in fiberglass reinforced Impact Resistant version, capable of withstanding a 2" steel ball, dropped from 20 feet, without cracking. Other products in the CertainTeed range include vinyl & fiber cement siding, pvc trim, sheathing, fence, railing, deck, foundation, windows, insulation, gypsum, ceilings, and pipe products. The Certainteed wesbite includes an Idea Centre with sections on: Visualize Your Home, Photo Gallery, Case Studies, and What's New.

GAF. GAF Materials Corporation, headquartered in Wayne, New Jersey, is a leading manufacturer of asphalt shingles. Founded in 1886, GAF Material Corporation has grown to become North America's larges manufacturer of residential roofing. Its product range is classified into Good, Better, and Best. The Better category offers an option of an impact-resistant backing. The basic category are available in 23 colors, incuding: Ash Brown, Cedar Shake, Charcoal, Cypress Tan, Desert Sand, and Dove Gray. The website contains instructional videos, a Virtual Home Remodeler, and a section of Roofing ABCs. In addition to asphalt shingles, other GAF products include: Residential & Commercial Roofing, Composite Railing & Decking, Premium Decorative Stone, Ornamental Iron & Ductwork, and Specialty Fabrics.

TAMKO. TAMKO, based in Joplin, Missouri, is a leading manufacturer of roofing materials including asphalt shingles. It has a colorful history, with leading parts being played by women. In 1944, when he was 69, E.L.Craig started a roofing business in an old street car barn in Joplin. Due to his failing health the leadership of TAMKO was soon taken over by his wife Mary Ethel. During the 1950s the direction of the company was taken over by their daughter Ethelmae, who remains TAMKO's chairman today. Marketed under the Heritage brand name, TAMKO laminated shingles are available with or without Algae Relief (AR). The Heritage Vintage range has deep shadow lines imitating the look of real wood shakes. They carry a 50 year limited warranty, and 60 month limited warranty against damage from wind up to 110 mph. They are available in five colors: Fossil Grey, Weathered Wood, Redwood, Charcoal, and Chestnut.

OTHER RELATED PRODUCTS

You may also like to visit our USA product guides on the best: Cedar Shingles, Gutters, Roll Roofing, Roof Flashing, Roof Shingles, and Roof Vents.

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Roofing Product Guides: Asphalt Shingles, Cedar Shingles, Corrugated Roofing, Gutters, Roll Roofing, Roof Drains, Roof Flashing, Roof Shingles, Roof Vents, Roofing Shingles, Roofing Tiles, Rubber Roofing, Solar Shingles.