Asphalt Shingles 101: Everything You Need To Know

When a home is in need of a new roof installation, the homeowner has many choices. While there are shingle options available such as metal, wood, or tile, the most common and affordable shingle is asphalt. Asphalt shingles are the most popular type of residential roofing shingles due to their durability and wide variety of styles, but the average person may not be versed in shingle shape or material composition. Knowing the basics about asphalt shingles can help you decide which options are right for your residential roofing project and ensure that your new roof will look great and protect your home for years to come.
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The Specifics Of Asphalt ShinglesMaterials

• Fiberglass Shingles. This type of shingle is made by using a woven fiberglass base that is covered in a waterproof asphalt coating. Ceramic granules are added to the top of the shingle to protect it from UV rays and extend the life of the shingle. Fiberglass shingles are fairly lightweight and thin compared to organic shingles. This type of shingle has been very popular since its invention in the 1980s.
• Organic Mat-Based Shingles. The bottom layer of these shingles is made from recycled felt paper, which is then saturated in asphalt for waterproofing. Ceramic granules are added to a coating of adhesive asphalt on top. The organic mat-based shingles are more flexible than fiberglass shingles, but they are more prone to warping.

Types

• Three-Tab Shingles. The tabs referred to in the name are cutouts made on the bottom edge of the shingle. This gives the illusion that one shingle is actually 3 separate shingles and they are ideal for keeping labor costs down.
• Architectural Shingles. These are coated with extra asphalt that seals the layers together. This added asphalt layer makes the tiles more water-resistant and durable, as well as thicker.

Lifespan
Shingles are estimated to last between 15 and 30 years. This may seem like a large span of time, but the life of the tiles is heavily dependent on climate. Ice dams, mold, intense heat, rapidly fluctuating temperature, and other environmental conditions can impact the longevity of the tiles. Since Calgary is prone to bouts of thawing and refreezing, tiles often suffer damage from ice dams. Despite the cold winters, Calgary is the sunniest city in Canada, with lots of sunshine even in the winter. This can also cause wear on roofing, as UV rays deteriorate shingles. One way to make sure you’re getting the longest life out of your shingles is to ensure they are installed properly by a professional roofing company.
Style
Asphalt shingles come in many shapes, colors, and styles now, allowing a homeowner to customize their residential roofing. Shingles can be made to look like slate, wood, or tile, and this roofing material is available in a large variety of colors. The edges of shingles can also vary in style, with some shingles shaped as squares or rectangles and others have a scalloped edge.
For Top Quality Roofing Service In Calgary, Call Asonic RoofingIf it’s time for a new roof installation and you are struggling to decide which type of shingle will be best for your home, ask the professionals at Asonic roofing in Calgary. Our roofing service experts can assess which shingles will complement the look of your home while standing up to the Calgary climate. Asonic Roofing is a local, hands-on roofing company that treats every customer like a member of our family. We will never sell you anything you don’t need, which is why our clients always trust our expertise when deciding what products and materials will work best for their home. If you’re ready for a roofing replacement or a roofing repair, contact Asonic Roofing at 1-403-462-2808 or fill out the online contact form.
FAQQ: Why might I need a warranty on a roof?
A: While we are confident that you won’t need to use a warranty, we know that it gives our clients peace of mind. At Asonic Roofing, we are preferred contractors of Owens Corning® which means that all of our installs come with a 50-year non-prorated warranty, compared to a 10-year warranty offered by most other roofing companies. You can enjoy 100% coverage on your new roof!
Q: How can I get the longest life out of my shingles?
A: Keep your gutters clear so that water has a way to escape. This will help reduce your chances of ice dams. If you interact with shingles in the winter, such as walking on the roof, use extra caution as the cold weather will make them very firm and bending of the shingles can lead to damage or breaks.
Q: Why do asphalt shingles blister and does it mean they are damaged?
A: No, if you see blistering it does not mean your shingles are damaged or in need of a roofing repair. Asphalt shingles can blister when moisture gets trapped in the shingle or if the shingle becomes too hot, but it often does not lead to shingle damage. The only way shingle blisters cause damage is if the shingle blisters pop; then there may be a need for roofing repair since the granules in that area will be displaced and the shingle will be exposed to the elements and UV rays.
Get Your Free Roofing, Siding & Home Exterior Quote Today. Asonic Roofing Has You Covered!We know that there are numerous roofing companies in Calgary you can choose from, but we set ourselves apart by providing our clients with free and honest assessments, fair prices, quality products, and excellent warranties.
Our focus is you, and we’ll never sell you anything that isn’t right for your home and family. Whether you require a total roof replacement, siding repair, or the installation of new windows and doors, our expert team will guide you through all your possible options to ensure you get exactly what you need. 
For more information about our roofing services, or to arrange a free assessment and quote, contact us today at (403) 462-2808 or complete our contact form below.