Trying to determine which type of asphalt shingle is ideal for your roofing project? Asphalt shingles are the most common and affordable roofing material on the market, but there are different options available to consider. They also come in a range of compositions and styles. Read on to explore four asphalt shingle types and how to make the right selection for your property.
Here are the four asphalt shingle types and the details you need to know:
#1: Fiberglass Asphalt Shingles
These shingles have a fiberglass mat base and a waterproof asphalt coating. A ceramic roofing granules layer on the shingle provides UV protection. Features of fiberglass asphalt shingles include:
- Thin and lightweight
- Fire resistant
- Long warranty
- Variety of color choices
- Custom appearance
#2: Organic Asphalt Shingles
Organic asphalt is the original asphalt shingle option. Although you may still see these shingles on roofs, they are no longer produced because they are less durable and more expensive than other shingle types. They are comprised of single layers of wood fiber or recycled paper saturated in asphalt, making them waterproof. These shingles then receive a coat of adhesive asphalt and a topping of ceramic granules. Organic asphalt shingles contain 40% more asphalt than fiberglass. Features of organic asphalt shingles include:
- Flexible
- Durable and rugged
- Environmentally friendly
- No longer in production
#3: Three-Tab Shingles
With three-tab asphalt shingles, the shingle looks like three different roof pieces that fit together like a puzzle. These are the most affordable of the shingle types, but they have a shorter lifespan than others, lasting only 12-15 years in mild climates and 7-10 years in extreme weather. Here are the features of three-tab shingles:
- Wind-resistant up to 60 mph
- 25-year warranties are typical
- Cost-effective to purchase
- Flatter, more streamlined appearance
#4: Architectural Shingles
If you are looking for a premium asphalt shingle, you want architectural shingles. Twice as thick as three-tab shingles, architectural shingles can undergo customization to look like cedar and other high-end materials. For this reason, roofing contractors call them “designer” shingles. Instead of the cut-outs in three-tab shingles, architectural shingles feature lamination with a layer of asphalt.
Here are the characteristics of architectural shingles:
- 20-50 year lifespan
- Wind resistant up to 130 mph
- Dimensional look
- Waterproof
- Warranties for as long as 50 years
- Curl resistant
- More expensive than three-tab
- Not ideal for low-sloping roofs
Ready to Find the Ideal Asphalt Shingle Type for Your Roof?
Let the expert roofers at Enduring Roofing & Gutters assess your home, budget, and roofing goals to help you find the right asphalt shingle for your property. We bring more than 15 years of experience and attentive customer service to every roofing project.
We are proud to have the best roofers in Alpharetta on our team and are dedicated to your 100% satisfaction. Contact us today to request a quote or to learn more about which type of asphalt shingle is best for your home.
