Asphalt Roofs: Should You Choose Architectural Shingles?
Asphalt shingles are one of the most commonly used roofing materials in modern home construction, and for good reason. These versatile roof shingles are durable, inexpensive, easy to maintain, and an ideal roofing material choice for both new home builders and homeowners seeking to replace their existing roofing.
However, not all asphalt shingles are created equal, so make sure that you choose the right shingle material for putting a roof over your own head. Consequently, many homeowners who opt for asphalt shingles choose architectural asphalt shingles.
What Are Architectural Asphalt Shingles?
Traditional asphalt shingles were known in the roofing industry as three-tab shingles. These shingles were made from a single, flat layer of composite asphalt and were arranged in the same simple overlapping pattern as traditional timber roof shingles.
Compared to these traditional asphalt shingles, architectural shingles (also known as dimensional shingles) can be significantly more complicated. Architectural asphalt shingles are made from multiple layers of asphalt composite, which are chemically bonded to one another using massive amounts of heat and pressure.
This manufacturing process may be more complicated, but the results are well worth the effort. Architectural shingles have a number of unique properties that make them far superior to traditional three-tab shingles, as well as many other alternative roofing materials.
How Can Architectural Shingles Benefit You?
You might be tempted to go for the traditional option. However, architectural shingles are often the better choice. Discover some benefits that these specific shingles can bring to your roof.
Durability
Three-tab asphalt shingles are far from fragile, and a well-constructed three-tab roof can last for 20 years or more. However, architectural asphalt shingles are on another level in terms of durability.
Their tough laminated structure makes architectural shingles immensely impact-resistant (ideal for shrugging off falling tree branches during storms). They are also more resistant to long-term wear caused by wind and intense sunlight.
With occasional maintenance and repairs, a roof made from architectural asphalt shingles can last well over 30 years. Some architectural shingle manufacturers even offer a lifetime warranty with their high-end architectural shingles.
Curb Appeal
The unique methods used to create architectural shingles also gives an architectural shingle roof a distinctive, three-dimensional appearance. Architectural shingles can also be laid in more complicated patterns than the flat, linear lines used in three-tab shingle roofing.
This effect is particularly pronounced during the morning and evening hours, as the thick, raised roof shingles cast shadows over the roof in a manner very reminiscent of traditional roof shingles made from cedar or slate. It almost goes without saying that this unique look can have tremendous curb appeal, especially if your home is set in equally picturesque surroundings.
If you want to enhance the effect, you can even find architectural shingles that are painted or pigmented to closely resemble actual timber or stone roof shingles. These can be remarkably convincing, even under close inspection, but are significantly cheaper and easier to maintain than the real thing.
Property Value
While architectural shingles are a bigger upfront investment than other roof materials, they are a much better long-term investment, and not just because they last longer. If you plan to sell your home or need to reroof a home before flipping it, an elegant, high-quality architectural shingle roof can significantly increase its value.
There are many good reasons to spend extra money on architectural asphalt shingles for your residential property. If you have any more questions about asphalt shingles, you want to hire professional roofers to install your asphalt roof, or you are interested in other roofing material options, contact the roofing experts at Jerry Newman Roofing & Remodeling Inc.