What Are Class 4 Roof Shingles?

Class 4 Roof Shingles Tulsa, OK

 

Your roof has a big job to do. It’s the first and most important barrier between the elements and your home. It protects not only the structural integrity of your house but also your family and valuables inside. And, if you live in an area that sees frequent hail and wind storms, you’ll want to ensure you choose the highest-quality roofing material you can.

Those looking for the longest-lasting and most durable roofing material out there should consider Class 4 roof shingles.

 

What Are Class 4 Roof Shingles?

Class 4 roof shingles are sometimes referred to as impact-resistant composite shingles or IR roofing shingles. They are designed to withstand damage from hail and severe weather, as well as high winds that can pick up flying debris.

Class 4 shingles undergo extensive testing to obtain their UL 2218 Impact Rating. The UL rating (Underwriters Laboratory) has developed a rigorous process for testing the strength of shingles against severe hail. During the test, steel balls ranging in diameter from 1 ½ inch to 2 inches are dropped from a height of 20 feet to mimic the impact of real hail. Those shingles that are able to withstand the repeated battery without undermining the integrity of the shingle earn the UL 2218 rating and the Class 4 designation.

Impact-resistant shingles can be made of copper, resin and plastic, or aluminum. They can also be made with traditional asphalt shingles by adding a polymer backing that helps the shingle stay together when impacted by hail.

 

What Are The Benefits Of Using Class 4 Roof Shingles?

If you live in an area that sees a lot of storms and high winds, you should consider investing in impact-resistant roof shingles. These shingles provide a number of benefits when compared to lower-rated asphalt shingles.

Extends the Life of Your Roof

A professionally installed Class 4 roof can last up to 50 years with proper maintenance. Since these shingles are designed to withstand the impact of repeated hail storms, you’ll have fewer repairs and replacements to make over the years. Though the materials cost a bit more upfront, there’s generally not a lot of difference in installation costs compared with traditional shingles.

With a standard roof under the same conditions, you’ll be paying much more over the years. Damaged shingles can quickly become a larger problem if not addressed immediately. Without a solid barrier, holes and leaks can occur, causing exponentially more damage to your roof and sheathing.

Protects Better Against Damage

Class 4 shingles are some of the most durable shingles you can purchase, making them an ideal choice for homeowners who want to protect their investment from severe weather. These shingles are designed to bear the impact of large hail, so they’re stronger and can bend and absorb the impact instead of breaking or cracking.

Increases Resale Value

Potential home buyers often want to see newer appliances and home systems to ensure they won’t have unexpected costs down the line for repair and replacements. A quality roof is frequently at the top of their must-have list.

Homebuyers know that roofs cost a lot to replace and will want to know what kind of material it is and how long ago it was installed.  If they know the roof is made of high-quality material and still has many years before they need to replace or repair it, you can use this as a selling feature, increasing your home’s value.

May Decrease Insurance Costs

Contact your insurance company and ask about any discounts they offer to homeowners who install impact-resistant shingles to their homes. Especially in states in the Great Plains area, insurance providers often offer incentives for this kind of feature, knowing they will be saving money by preventing future claims due to roof damage.

Furthermore, your insurance company may actually want to charge you more if you live in a hail-prone area. By proving you’ve taken steps to protect your home, you may be able to avoid these additional costs.

 

The Takeaway

Not every homeowner can afford to or will need to invest in Class 4 roof tiles, but those who experience repeated hail storms will definitely reap the benefits. If you live in a state like Colorado, Kansas, Texas, South Dakota, or Nebraska, these shingles are highly recommended due to the sheer number of hail storms.

It’s true these shingles cost more upfront (often around 10 to 20% more), but when you factor in the extended life, reduced insurance costs, and reduced need for repair and replacement, they more than pay for themselves.

The post What Are Class 4 Roof Shingles? appeared first on Burggraf Roofing of Tulsa OK.

source https://burggrafroofing.com/what-are-class-4-roof-shingles/

Different Types of Secondary Damage Caused by a Roofing Leak

Roofing Leak Tulsa, OK

 

Few things are more frustrating for homeowners than a leaking roof. Unfortunately, roof damage isn’t the only thing you have to worry about when you have a leak. There are several types of secondary damage caused by a roofing leak.

This is why you should act quickly and take roof leaks seriously. If you get your roof fixed fast enough, you can avoid spending more money on further home repairs.

In this guide, we’re going to break down the types of damage that a leak in your roofing can cause so you can know what to expect and how to avoid it. Let’s get started.

 

1. Stains On Your Walls

If the leaking roof lets water in your home, it can potentially travel down the back of your drywall. When this happens, rainwater leaves stains and discoloration on your walls that no homeowner wants. Worst case scenario, your walls start to grow mold and mildew.

2. Ceiling Damage

Just like your walls, your ceiling can become severely damaged by rainwater. The difference is that your ceiling could actually collapse if it withstands enough water. Plus, you also have the risk of mold and mildew growing here too.

3. Damaged Floors

No matter what kind of floors you have, they can experience secondary roof damage. If you have hardwood floors, high amounts of moisture can warp your beams, which means they will start to buckle and become uneven. Hardwood is particularly difficult and costly to repair.

You aren’t in the clear with carpet or laminate flooring either. Carpet can become soaked and damaged past repair, and laminate can become structurally damaged by water. Plus, if the water gets to your subflooring, repairing your floors only becomes more expensive.

4. Damp Insulation

Insulation damage affects your whole house, and water can even cause black mold to grow on your insulation. Your attic insulation is the most at risk when you have a leaking roof. However, if the leak is significant, it will make its way into your ceiling and wall insulation as well.

Depending on the damage, your wet insulation may need to be completely replaced.

5. Structural Problems

Some of your home’s main structural components include the following:

• Wood rafters and framing
• Beams
• Roof sheathing
• Bracing elements
• Roof decking

All of these components can be impacted by secondary roof damage, and they are all costly to repair. Additionally, you may have mold or wood rot to worry about.

6. Damage to Your Home’s Foundation

We don’t usually think foundation damage will occur from a leaking roof since it is at the opposite end of the house. However, if your floor is severely damaged by water, it can seep into your foundation and cause irreparable issues.

Plus, a faulty overflowing gutter could lead water to your foundation. Foundation repairs are costly and incredibly inconvenient. You may be forced out of your home while the foundation is getting replaced, which adds another level of stress.

7. Damage to Your Personal Property

If the roof leak is significant, it can trickle all the way down to the contents of your home. That includes furniture, artwork, appliances, electronics, clothes, and more. If you have precious mementos stored in your garage, they can quickly become damaged.

Furniture can be replaced; however, heirloom pieces or original artwork would be a tragic loss. Replacing appliances and electronics is also expensive and time-consuming.

8. Damaged Electrical System

If water gets into your electrical outlets, the chance of a painful electrical shock is high. Plus, your home would become an overall unsafe place to be. If this happens, hire an electrician immediately to fix the water damage.

9. Pipe Corrosion

Your pipes, or any metal materials in the structure of your home, should not be exposed to too much water. When they are, they can quickly become rusted and corroded. Eventually, this damage can break down the metal, which could lead to a burst pipe.

 

How to Avoid Secondary Damage Caused by a Roofing Leak

As you can see, secondary damage caused by a roofing leak can lead to serious issues. This includes expensive and time-consuming repairs, property loss, and dangerous living situations.

The best way to avoid a disaster is to properly maintain your roof. If you suspect any issues or shingle damage, have a roofer inspect it immediately. If your roof starts to leak, take care of the issue right away to avoid further damages.

The post Different Types of Secondary Damage Caused by a Roofing Leak appeared first on Burggraf Roofing of Tulsa OK.

source https://burggrafroofing.com/different-types-of-secondary-damage-caused-by-a-roofing-leak/

The Advantages of a Metal Roof

Metal Roof Tulsa OK

 

Installing a new roof is a huge investment of time and money. It needs to protect your whole home and stand up to the elements. Depending on what part of the country you live in, you may need to consider things like hail, high winds, heavy snow, or debris from overhanging trees.

If you’re concerned about the longevity and durability of your roof, you may want to consider getting a metal roof. We’ll look at the advantages of installing a metal roof so you can judge for yourself if it’s the right choice for you. A skilled and reputable roofing company can also help advise you on the best roofing material for your budget and your needs.

 

Advantages of a Metal Roof

Though they may not be for everyone, there are several advantages to installing a metal roof that you should consider.

Durability

Metal roofs are more resistant to hail, snow, and high winds than asphalt roofs, and many will come with the high impact rating of Class 4. Additionally, metal roofs are more likely to resist pests, mold and mildew, leaks, and fire damage. If they are properly sealed with a protective coating, they won’t rust or corrode, resulting in a stronger, long-lasting roof.

Cost-Effective

Roofs are expensive any way you cut it. Therefore, investing in a quality roof that you know will last for years can significantly reduce future costs and give you peace of mind that you won’t have to shell out thousands of dollars any time soon. Metal roofs can last over 50 years compared with standard asphalt shingles, which only give around 15 to 20 years. Furthermore, with an asphalt roof, you frequently have to replace missing or damaged shingles after extreme weather events adding to your expenses.

Environmentally Friendly

Metal roofs are one of the most eco-friendly materials on the market. Steel roofs are 100% recyclable, compared with asphalt roofs that use fossil fuels in the form of petroleum to make. Many new metal roofs also often contain around 25% recycled materials, making them even better for the environment. Additionally, since asphalt roofs need to be replaced more often than metal roofs, they contribute to increasing carbon emissions for each new set of shingles that has to be made.

Save Money on Insurance

Often homeowner insurance providers will provide discounts for metal roofs. Because many of these roofs are highly rated to withstand hail, wind, and other weather damage, you can frequently receive lower rates if you install one. Insurers know that quality material like this will reduce the number of claims they receive and ultimately reduce their payouts.

Energy Efficient

Metal roofs come with many options that can improve your home’s energy efficiency. By using a cool roof pigment, heat from the sun will be reflected off the roof, keeping your whole house cooler and lowering your energy usage. Even without an additional coating, metal performs better at releasing heat than asphalt shingles. The less heat that is allowed to get into your home, the lower your energy bills will be. Metal roofs can also help insulate your house by trapping heat inside in the winter months.

Aesthetically Pleasing

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but once homeowners see the range of options available for metal roofing, they are impressed with the overall look compared with asphalt. Furthermore, there are even some metal designs that mimic the look of asphalt tiles, so you can have the increased durability of metal with the aesthetic you prefer

 

Metal Roof vs. Asphalt Roof

With all the advantages of a metal roof, it’s still important to highlight the benefits of a traditional asphalt roof. The number one advantage to using asphalt over metal is cost. Asphalt shingles are the more affordable option when it comes to roofing material, and we understand that not everyone is able to cover the higher upfront costs of metal.

Also, some people wish to avoid metal roofs because they can be louder during a particularly heavy rain or hail storm. Asphalt shingles can absorb the sound of hail better than metal can, but they are not nearly as durable. The increased noise can be mitigated by installing additional insulation above the sheathing to dampen the sounds.

Lastly, metal roofs are more likely to see damage like dents or dings that asphalt roofs are better at hiding. Usually, these dents do not impact the performance of the roof, only the aesthetic appeal. Choosing a material like steel over aluminum or copper will dramatically decrease the number of dents you’ll see.

 

The Takeaway

Any home improvement or repair you make is a balancing act of immediate needs versus future needs, and a roof is no different. They are expensive, and while it may seem like a lot of money to pay upfront for a metal roof, knowing that you won’t have to replace it for up to 50 years will mean you’re watching out for your future finances. Metal roofs are hard to beat, but of course you’ll have to consider your ability to pay, the typical wear and tear that your home sees, and your future plans for your home.

The post The Advantages of a Metal Roof appeared first on Burggraf Roofing of Tulsa OK.

source https://burggrafroofing.com/the-advantages-of-a-metal-roof/

The Advantages of Having an Asphalt Shingle Roof

Asphalt Shingle Roof Tulsa OK

 

Have you ever wondered about the advantages of having an asphalt shingle roof? As a homeowner, one of the most important choices you will make is what type of roof you should install, and today there are more options than ever.

Your roof protects your entire home, so you need to make your choice with reliability and durability in mind. You should also factor in your home’s design and aesthetic since your roof can make a major statement. Lastly, consider which roofing option has the best value.

Asphalt single roofs are the top choice in North America for good reason. Keep reading our guide to learn about the top eight benefits of using this roofing material for your residential roof.

 

1. It’s Cost-Effective

Not only is a shingle roof the most cost-effective residential roof option, but it also provides the most value. In this instance, low cost does not equal low quality or durability, so your roof will continue to save you money over the decades.

Installing an asphalt shingle roof is significantly cheaper than installing a metal roof. If you’re looking for the most bang for your buck and return on investment over the years, an asphalt roof is your best bet.

2. You Have Plenty of Design Options

If you have a specific idea of how you want your roof to look, chances are you can accomplish it with an asphalt shingle roof. In fact, asphalt shingles can be manufactured to look like wood shakes, slate, and other materials.

You also have a wide variety of color options when you choose an asphalt roof, which isn’t true for other roofing materials. From black and brown to green or blue, you can find the perfect shade to match your house.

3. Asphalt Shingles Are Durable

When it comes to construction and design, choosing the most cost-effective option usually means a sacrifice in quality. That’s not the case with an asphalt shingle roof. With proper maintenance, an asphalt roof can last between 20 and 30 years.

Plus, an asphalt roof can withstand high winds up to 130 mph. It also has a class A fire rating, which means it contains the spread of fire. If your roof does get damaged, it’s easy to get it repaired since all roofers know how the work with asphalt shingles.

4. Better Energy-Efficiency

An asphalt shingle roof comes with a synthetic underlayment that helps your home use less energy. You can still keep your home cool in the summer and save money on your energy bill.

Additionally, you can purchase an asphalt roof with “cool shingles,” which are lighter-colored shingles that deflect sunlight and heat. You can save money and preserve the environment by automatically using less energy during the hottest and coldest months of the year.

5. Asphalt Shingles Are Lightweight, and Easy to Install

An asphalt shingle roof is easy to install on a steep slope roof, as well as other roof types. The shingles are lightweight, so you don’t have to worry about your roof being able to hold them.

Asphalt shingles are also easy to install around other roofing components, such as a skylight. Since it is such a popular roof option, it’s easy to find a skilled roofer who knows what they are doing with asphalt shingles.

6. It’s Environmentally-Friendly

When it’s time to replace your asphalt shingles with new ones, the old shingles can be recycled. In fact, old asphalt shingles are often repurposed into recycled asphalt used to repair roads.

Another environmental benefit is that asphalt shingles are sturdy enough for solar panels. Even though they are lightweight, they are structurally sound enough to hold the weight of solar panels, so you can generate your own energy without worrying about damaging your roof.

7. There Are Multiple Types of Asphalt Shingles

Just as there are multiple design and color options, there are also multiple options for the shingles themselves. In fact, there are four main types of composite asphalt shingles, including:

• 3-tab shingles (traditional)
• Laminate shingles (also known as architectural or dimensional shingles)
• Designer shingles (premium)
• Performance shingles

The 3-lab shingles are the oldest and most traditional option. However, newer shingle options like designer and performance shingles offer more when it comes to weather resistance and design choices. Each type is composite shingles, which are made of fiberglass and asphalt.

8. Asphalt Shingles Insulate Sound

Unlike a metal roof, an asphalt shingle roof is extremely quiet. It can insulate sound and help maintain a peaceful home environment. Even if there is a ton of external noise around you, your asphalt roof will protect you from it.

This is an especially big advantage if you live somewhere that gets plenty of rain or the occasional hail storm.

 

Is An Asphalt Shingle Roof Right For Your Home?

Now that you’ve read all of the advantages of having an asphalt shingle roof, is it the right choice for your residential roof? If you are looking for a roof option that is high-quality, durable, versatile, and cost-effective, a shingle roof is an ideal choice.

The post The Advantages of Having an Asphalt Shingle Roof appeared first on Burggraf Roofing of Tulsa OK.

source https://burggrafroofing.com/the-advantages-of-having-an-asphalt-shingle-roof/

Do’s and Don’ts of Installing a Roof Skylight

Roof Skylight Tulsa, OK

 

Thankfully, today’s skylights generally provide homeowners with fewer technical worries than they once did due to improved manufacturing. Even still, there are functional and aesthetic factors that demand careful thought in terms of installation.

Take it from the pros – here are a few do’s and don’ts of installing a roof skylight.

 

Do’s of Roof Skylight’s

A skylight can be an excellent addition, providing more natural light throughout your home. Here are a few tips on how to choose the right skylight for your home.

Carefully Select a Location

You should take your time when deciding where to install a roof skylight and take special consideration into its solar orientation. If you’re considering an area that doesn’t get much natural sunlight throughout the day, installation costs might not be easily justified. In contrast, if the sunlight is in an area that gets too much sunlight, it might make the room unbearably hot.

Consider Tinting

Most skylight manufacturers today provide a variety of tinting options. This glaze goes across the sunlight and ranges from grays to bronzes to translucent whites, depending on the sun’s orientation on your rooftop.

Bronze or gray tints will help to allow for direct sunlight while minimizing some overheating in the interior of your home. The white tinting will act as a diffuser of the sunlight into the room below.

Pay Attention to Indoor and Outdoor Appearances

Since skylights connect the outdoors to the indoors, you need to pay attention to the aesthetics in both areas of your home. From the inside, try aligning your skylight with a window, door opening, or any other existing feature in your home. This trick helps to prevent your skylight from looking out of place.

Go as Big as You Can

When choosing your skylight design, opt to go as big as aesthetics and orientation will allow for your home. Larger skylights tend to be cheaper than smaller alternatives per unit area, with the difference in labor being relatively minimal. Skylights can be as large as ten feet by twelve feet.

Also, one large skylight is better than multiple smaller ones in the same area if you can manage it. Less light is brought in by smaller skylights, even when there are multiples. They also tend to cost more in labor and will increase the likelihood of leaks.

Get Creative

There are tons of different skylight options. You are not restricted to the traditional bubble design. Some manufacturers specialize in low-profile skylights, and others use flat glass rather than acrylic. You can find some unusual skylight shapes, too, such as octagons, circles, or pyramids.

You can find just about anything out there if you look hard enough. Always make sure that your skylights meet local building and fire codes, though.

Consider Self-Ventilation

You can easily find self-ventilating features on skylights for your home. This concept helps to keep your space airy and cool while illuminating it with natural light.

For optimal convenience, look for automatic skylights which have rain and heat sensors. These sensors detect both moisture and temperature and open when it is too warm and close when there is rain.

 

Don’ts of Roof Skylight’s

Adding a skylight to your home should take careful consideration. To err on the side of caution, here are a few tips to try to avoid when picking your skylight.

Install on South-Facing Sloping Roofs

As previously mentioned, too much sunlight can be harmful to a room, especially those of a smaller size. South-facing skylights installed on sloping roofs are known to overheat rooms. Instead, opt to install your skylight on a north-facing rooftop to take advantage of a soft, diffused light throughout the day.

Install on Street-Facing Roofs

As best as you can, avoid installing skylights on any roofs that face the street. They tend to look wildly out of place on more traditional home styles. Even on some modern homes, skylights can have a cluttered look from the street. It’s always recommended to have as discreet of concealment as possible not negatively impact your curb appeal.

Skimp on Quality

Not surprisingly, skylights are not a feature of your home that you should compromise quality for cost. Important considerations to high-quality skylights include water tightness, wind resistance, sound reduction, energy efficiency, and load resistance. Because installing a skylight into your roof is a considerable undertaking, you’ll want to make sure you find the highest quality available in your area.

 

Wrap Up

Following the do’s and don’ts of installing a roof skylight will ensure that your home receives a tasteful design paired with effective distribution of natural lighting. While there will also be some minor concerns surrounding leak potential, thankfully, today’s skylights have been improved to minimize these threats.

So, if you feel like an area of your home could use some brightening, maybe it’s time to consider adding in a roof skylight of your own.

The post Do’s and Don’ts of Installing a Roof Skylight appeared first on Burggraf Roofing of Tulsa OK.

source https://burggrafroofing.com/dos-and-donts-of-installing-a-roof-skylight/

Signs Your Roof Has Hail Damage

Hail Damage Tulsa, OK

 

You battened down the hatches, and you made it through the storm free and clear.  Or so you think. But your roof may have sustained damage without your knowledge. To maximize the life of your roof, you need to recognize the signs that your roof has sustained hail damage.  Knowing what to look for and then taking action will help your roof to have a long, happy life, and it will keep the outdoors outside where it belongs.

Get Down with Your Gutters

One of the easiest ways to see if your roof has hail damage is to check your gutters.  If your gutters have visible dents and dings, that is a good indicator that your roof has probably sustained some damage.

Another way your gutters can guide you to the truth about whether or not hail has damaged your roof is to pay attention to what is or is not draining from them.

• If your roof is asphalt, look for granules in the runoff. If your roof is slate, pieces of tile in the runoff signify that your roof may need some TLC.
• If your gutters are clogged, you probably need a pro to check your roof for hail damage.

 

Don’t Allow Hail Damage to “Bruise” Your Ego

If you are not afraid of heights, you can tell a ton about your roof’s condition after a hail storm by taking a look at its surface. If your roof has signs of bruising, depending on the size of the ding, you may have severe hail damage.

The damage may be superficial if they are relatively small, so your roof might live through it without professional attention.  However, if the bruise is a big one, your roof has probably been damaged enough to warrant an inspection.

Also, if you press on the bruise and there is “give,” that indicates your roof sustained an injury during the recent storm.

 

Don’t Let Your Roof Expose Itself

Hail can come in sizes that vary.  It can be from pea size to softball size, and it is not abnormal for it to hit your roof at speeds faster than a fastball.  When that happens, your roof will often sustain damage that will cause it to have large missing chunks.  These missing pieces will leave the under material exposed.  If that’s the case, it’s time to call in the roofer.

 

Is Your Roof Cracked Up?  That’s Not Funny!

If you see that your shingles started to crack following a hail storm, it is probably damaged.  Besides hail, other things can cause a roof to crack, such as prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and repeated inclement weather. Regardless of the crack’s cause, having a roofer check out the issue is highly recommended to prevent those small cracks from causing big problems.

 

Tiny Bubbles Can Cause Big Problems

Bubbles in a roof are also called blisters.  If you’ve ever had a bad sunburn, you understand the correlation.  If your roof appears to have started bubbling following a hail storm, you need to have a professional check the damage.

 

What Could Happen if I Just Take My Chances?

If you are into gambling, there are better ways to go about it than betting with the health of your roof following a hail storm.  It is much more cost-effective to have a professional assess the damage than to leave it unchecked.  By not having your roof diagnosed for damage, you are inviting minor issues to turn into major problems.  Hail damage can cause:

• Your roof to leak into your house itself
• Cracks leading to moisture collecting more readily
• Increased moisture collection. This will can lead to mold.  And no one wants a moldy house
• A decreased shelf life for your roof

Give Me the Bottom Line if a Hail Storm Damaged the Top of My House

Hail damage to your roof, if left unchecked, can be costly. However, preventative maintenance can keep you from having to pay big bucks if you have to have your roof replaced in its entirety.

Because hail damage to your roof can be hard to detect to the untrained eye, it’s recommended to give a professional a call to assess the issue. The pros at Burggraf Roofing are the right ones for this job.

Burggraf roofers are experts at repairing roofs made from any material.  They will come out and inspect your roof free of charge and give you an estimate for the cost of repairs.

Burggraf is Tulsa’s top choice for all of your roofing needs.  Be it repair, maintenance, or replacing your roof in its entirety, Bruggraf’s professionals will keep you and your family safe from the elements.  Experts in every kind of roofing under the sun, Burgraff Roofing will help you keep a roof over your head and keep the outdoors outside where it belongs.

The post Signs Your Roof Has Hail Damage appeared first on Burggraf Roofing of Tulsa OK.

source https://burggrafroofing.com/signs-your-roof-has-hail-damage/

The 4 Main Types of Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt Shingles Tulsa, OK

 

The most popular roofing material used in homes throughout the United States is asphalt shingles. This roofing type is ideal for residential homes because it requires minimal upkeep, keeps homes protected for decades, and comes in countless different color and style variations.

If you’re looking into asphalt shingles for your roof, you’ll want to do your homework to determine what options are out there. Here is a detailed look at the four main types of asphalt shingles available today.

 

Traditional Shingles
Traditional shingles are the older version of asphalt shingles that are still on the market today. Also referred to as 3-tab shingles or strip shingles, this roofing type has been improved today to include a fiberglass mat replacing the original cellulose core. When traditional shingles first hit the market, they were much smaller and required manual sealing. Since then, the 3-tab shingle style has become more widely used, with a self-sealing process that occurs when the sunlight hits the newly installed roof. Since this newer style of the traditional asphalt shingle requires less manual labor, roofers can charge homeowners less for the installation. Another feature that was specific to traditional shingles was their monotone color. Offering a more aesthetically appealing appearance, today’s traditional shingles combine several shades. In addition to being better to look at, these shade variations are also better at masking any imperfections found on roofing done in one single color. Traditional shingles have a consistent and straightforward appearance. All of the individual shingles within the 3-tab are identical in shape, and all lay flat perfectly next to one another.

 

Architectural Shingles
Another common type of asphalt shingles is architectural shingles, also known as dimensional or laminate shingles. What sets architectural shingles apart from traditional shingles is their construction, as rather than being made from one single layer, they are made from two. Both layers of architectural shingles are a combination of fiberglass and asphalt. With the added protection of double layering, these shingles are known to be incredibly weather-resistant. Architectural shingles were historically brought to the market for visual aesthetic purposes only. Eventually, roofers realized that these shingles were easier to install and provided more protection to homes. Today, architectural shingles are the most popular type of asphalt shingles out there. You can quickly identify architectural shingles because they have such a unique look to them. Rather than being cut into identical shapes, like traditional shingles, architectural shingles have alternating single and double layers. This design is commonly referred to as “dragon’s teeth.”

 

Premium Shingles
Premium shingles are sometimes referred to as designer shingles and have a similar two-layer composition, much like architectural shingles. The primary feature differentiating the two roofing types is that premium shingles have added options to create a more luxurious look. Often, premium shingles are designed to look like other types of roofing material. It is not uncommon to find premium shingles made to look like slate tiles or cedar shakes. Ultimately, premium shingles were designed to provide homeowners with a more upscale look without the cost and downsides of those types of roofing.

 

Performance Shingles
Several asphalt shingle types fall under the performance shingle category. This title means that the shingles have been specifically designed to offer performance benefits. Some of the standard performance benefits you will find include solar reflectivity, hail resistance, or wind resistance.

 

Wind Resistance
Wind resistance in performance shingles can help keep your roof intact during high winds while minimizing the threat of blow-off or wind uplift.

 

Impact-Related
The impact from hail is often sudden and brutal, so shingles that have been impact-rated mean that they resist hail better than alternatives. Not only do these roofing types have a better chance at maintaining their quality through hailstorms, but they may also qualify you for a reduction in your home insurance premiums.

 

Algae Resistance
It is common for algae to grow on rooftops in many areas across the country, but this can be problematic. Algae can leave behind black stains, so performance shingles with algae resistance offer algae-resistant granules to reduce the growth on your roof.

 

Fire Resistance
Class A Fire Resistance is the highest fire-resistance rating you can get for a roof. To maximize the fire rating, you must install the whole roof system.

 

Why Choose Asphalt Shingles for Your Roof
Not only are asphalt shingles available in countless style options, but they are also widely available across the United States and Canada. Asphalt shingles are also very easy to install, so they are common for roofing contractors to offer to homeowners.

As if that didn’t sound good enough, asphalt shingles are also one of the most affordable roofing options out there. You can check with your contractor for other cost-saving options for your roofing project, such as installing new shingles on top of your old ones.

 

Wrap Up
Now that you have a better idea of the four main types of asphalt shingles, it’s up to you to decide what is best suited for your home. Keep in mind the different benefits of each while also researching to find the costs associated.

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