Asphalt shingles have firmly established themselves as a leading choice for roofing materials among homeowners in Arizona and across the U.S., securing a highly favorable reputation for their versatility and cost-effectiveness. Offering a compelling range of benefits, these shingles cater to an array of roofing needs with remarkable efficiency.
In this blog post, we will discuss the following key benefits of asphalt shingles:
- Durability and longevity
- Energy efficiency
- Cost-effectiveness
Keep reading to learn more about asphalt shingles and these benefits in greater detail.
Asphalt Shingles 101
Asphalt shingles, a staple in American residential roofing, are primarily composed of a base material, asphalt, and a layer of granules on top. The base material, either organic felt or fiberglass, gives the shingle its structural integrity. It is then heavily saturated with asphalt, which provides the waterproof quality essential to any roofing material. The top layer of granules, usually made from crushed rock, protects the asphalt from the sun's UV rays, further enhancing the shingle's durability and lifespan.
Roofing with asphalt shingles works by installing these overlapping layers from the bottom edge of the roof up. This way of installation ensures that water runs off the shingles without seeping into the underlayment or decking. Moreover, asphalt shingles' design typically includes a strip of adhesive that gets activated by the sun's heat after installation, creating a seal that adds to the shingle's wind resistance.
Durability and Longevity of Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are renowned for their remarkable durability and longevity. They are designed to withstand the rigors of different weather conditions, providing robust protection against storms, hail, heat, and extreme winds.
When properly installed and maintained, an asphalt shingle roof can typically last around 20 years, depending on the specific type of shingle. This is thanks to the inherent strength of the materials used in the shingles and their layered construction, which provides excellent resistance to wear and tear.
Here are some quick tips to keep your asphalt shingle roof in prime condition for years to come:
- Conduct regular inspections, preferably twice a year or after significant weather events.
- Promptly repair any missing, loose, or damaged shingles.
- Trim overhanging branches to prevent damage from falling limbs and reduce the likelihood of leaves accumulating on the roof.
- Regularly check for signs of algae or fungus growth and treat it promptly if detected.
With proper care and maintenance, an asphalt shingle roof can be a durable, long-lasting investment, offering excellent protection for your home for many years to come.
Modern Asphalt Shingles & Energy Efficiency
While not all asphalt shingle roofs have good energy-efficient ratings, there are many now being manufactured that are specifically designed to support homeowners' energy-efficiency goals. These shingles, often called "cool roof shingles," are intended to mitigate the sun's impact. This is great for Arizona homeowners, where we see more than our fair share of sunny days.
The granules that coat the surface of these cool roof asphalt shingles are specially designed to reflect a portion of the sun's rays. By doing so, they minimize heat absorption, which subsequently reduces the amount of heat transferred into your home. This can significantly lessen the burden on your air conditioning system during peak usage times, leading to lower energy consumption and, ultimately, less expensive energy bills.
Cost-Effectiveness of Asphalt Shingles
Compared to other roofing materials, asphalt shingles stand out as an affordable yet reliable option. Their superior cost-efficiency is primarily attributed to two key factors: material costs and ease of installation.
Asphalt shingles are less expensive to produce, making them a more budget-friendly choice for homeowners. They combine quality and economy, offering a durable product that doesn't compromise on performance or aesthetic appeal.
Moreover, asphalt shingles are relatively quick and easy to install. This ease of installation translates to reduced labor costs, as the process usually requires less time compared to other roofing materials. The overall savings on labor and materials make asphalt shingles a practical and cost-effective choice for homeowners seeking a budget-friendly roofing solution with a proven track record of reliability and durability.
At Lyons Roofing, we specialize in providing high-quality asphalt shingles for all your roofing needs. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you achieve a beautiful, long-lasting roof for your home.
