Roofing is an essential element in a house, which is why it’s one of the most critical phases in managing construction works of residential buildings. It provides families protection from heat, cold, hail, and wind. It gives tenants peace of mind and assurance that their family would be safe, no matter the season or climate. When choosing the right roofing material, it is vital to pick one that can withstand any weather conditions, has a long lifespan, and is highly economical.
The shingle type that checks off all these boxes are Asphalt Shingles, the most popular roofing material in the United States, with more than 75% of all single-family homes using it. Apart from that, it is also easy to install and widely available everywhere.
What is asphalt shingle? How are they made? And why are they so popular? In this guide, we’ll discuss the answers to these questions, including a list of top roof asphalt shingle names in the market for 2020 to help you choose the best brand for your home or your next general contracting project.
Even though most would assume that asphalt shingles are made up exclusively of asphalt, they’re actually made from a mixture of raw materials. Each manufacturer has its particular blend of these materials, but nearly all asphalt shingles are combined with crushed limestones and asphalt to create a filled coating.
Once this is done, huge fiberglass mats are fed into a coater, so the drilled coating can be applied. This filled coating is heated up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and added to the fiberglass mat’s top and bottom to create the shingle’s base.
Granules made from crushed mined rocks are then added to the mixture to shingle its color, texture, and protective coating. After this, a layer of sand is infused into the shingle base and then fed into the press to embed the granules. Finally, the sheet is covered with a sealant layer to protect it against wind and hail damages.
Why are they popular?
Apart from protecting houses against inclement weather, asphalt shingles are also engineered for aesthetic purposes. Asphalt models also protect against water infiltration produced by ice dams or wind-driven rain; it operates as a sealant that waterproofs the houses’ ceiling. This material is famous for both contractors and homeowners for the following reasons:
– Variety: Asphalt is widely available in a variety of colors, sizes, and pattern designs.
– Maintenance: Asphalt has lesser records of maintenance issues than wood shakes or stone tiles.
– Cost: Lastly, asphalt is inexpensive and beats the price of other materials such as natural stone tiles, steel, or genuine wood shakes.
– Installation: Asphalt is easier and quicker to install compared to different types of roof shingles. DIY installation is possible if you have the skill, experience, and equipment. But when unsure, you can request for a professional roof contractor to do the installation for you, also giving you the capability to choose a crew schedule that is fit for your schedule.
What is the lifespan of Asphalt Shingles?
Though most asphalt shingles are marketed to last between 25 to 50 years, some roofs don’t last more than 7 to 10 years. A variety of factors can cause this, like roof design, climate, installation, and material.
Long-term and constant exposure to harsh weather elements can cause your shingle to deteriorate quicker than expected. They weaken the shingle’s flexibility, waterproofing, and durability, which leaves the roof vulnerable to water looks and other structural damages. If you notice the shingles cracking, bending, curling, or missing granules, it could be time for a replacement or serious roof repair.
The typical timeline for projects that involve roof asphalt shingle replacement is 1-2 days, depending on the weather condition and the type of roofing material that needs to be replaced.
Asphalt shingles are available in two primary forms:
– Three-tab: The most basic and conventional type of shingles. They generally have a very flat appearance and usually cost and weigh less than dimensional roofing shingles. However, three-tab singles are declining in popularity and have almost completely disappeared in the market.
– Dimensional roofing shingles: Widely available in various styles, colors, and textures, this type of shingles is the most preferred by the homeowners. Furthermore, these shingles are generally thicker, which translates to more protection.
Top Roof Asphalt Shingle Brands of 2020
As you’re considering which brand of asphalt shingle to purchase, listed below are the top brands in the market for the year 2020.
1. GAF
a. Woodland Shingles
GAF’s Woodland Shingles is an affordable choice that doesn’t compromise the aesthetics as it provides a sophisticated design with a custom color pallet to choose from. It features StainGuard algae protection and a high fire and housekeeping rating. Nevertheless, Woodland shingles are not extreme weather-impact tested and not Energy Star rated.
b. Timberline Ultra HD
The Timberland HD shingles are architecturally stylish, affordable and feature a dimensional, wood-shake look. It highlights its DuraGrip Adhesive and StanGaurd protection to reduce the chance of blow-off and blue-green algae stains from shingles. However, it has disadvantages include limited color options and has no extreme weather-impact rating.
2. Iko
a. Crowne Slate
This premium designer shingles from Iko boasts its strong but light-weight material composition that makes it easy to install. It has built-in algae resistance and UV protection while still maintaining a high-end look for residential homes. With a wind warranty of 130 mph, it decreases the chances of curling, uplift, blow-off, and water penetration. The only drawback of this brand is its low rating.
b. Nordic IR
The IKO Nordic IR shingles are rated as Class A for fire-resistance and Class 4 for impact-resistance. Its resilient fiberglass mat provides additional strength and extra-blow-off protection. Like the Crowne Slate, it has built-in algae resistance and a 130 mph wind warranty. The only downside is the fewer choices of color blends.
3. Owens Corning
a. Duration
Owen’s Corning Duration are energy star shingles rated as Class A in fire-resistance and Class H in wind-resistance. It offers total roof protection, extra coverage for shingles, and a moisture barrier for proper attic ventilation. Similar to the Iko selection, it has algae and wind protection with a 130 mph wind warranty.
However, the Duration series has its share of complaints from the owners regarding color variation and warranty misinformation. Moreover, it is negatively known for its poor sealing and recycling record.
b. Berkshire
Identical to the Duration type, Berkshire also has a Class A fire-resistance and Class H resistance rating. It is the pride of Owen Corning’s premium brand because of its top-of-the-line shingle design that creates an elegant, timeless look with a unique shadow line element for added dimensional appearance. Furthermore, it attracts buyers with its lifetime warranty promise.
4. CertainTeed
a. Grand Manor
Unlike all of the previous brands mentioned, CertainTeed Grand Manor includes a 10-year SureStart warranty that covers 100% of labor and replacement costs due to manufacturing defects, but installation costs can be quite expensive. It’s an excellent choice for homes with steep, sloped roofs. It also offers strong impact resistance, Class A fire-resistance rating, and a 110 mph wind-resistance warranty.
b. Landmark
The Landmark is a high-quality, robust, triple-laminate shingle and the most affordable option from the dimensional shingle line. It provides a natural shadow line with three-piece laminated construction and guarantees 110 mph wind-resistance. While it offers a class-leading warranty, the extensions can be hurt your pocket.
5. PABCO Roofing
a. Paramount Advantage
PABCO’s Paramount Advantage is a heavyweight shingle with a laminated design for extra durability, available in five colors. It features an algae defender, with a limited lifetime warranty available. Although rated with Class A fire-resistance and 110 mph wind warranty, it’s extra expensive in installation and material cost compared to the other options.
b. Cascade
Famous for its unique diamond shape design, it is the right choice for homes with a steep roof. It’s shingles feature algae defender, with Class A fire-resistance rating and 110 to 130 mph wind warranty. Its sole downside is its limited color options, which are only available in four colors.
6. Tamko
a. Elite Glass-Seal
Tamko’s Elite Glass Seal in a fiberglass shingle that can withstand hard impacts with a wide range of vivid colors for your selection. In terms of resistance, UL listed for wind, Class A for fire, and features non-discoloration. However, it is more susceptible to tearing and deemed unsuitable for areas with stronger than 80 mph winds.
b. Heritage
Heritage, on the other hand, is more affordable but still is made of high-quality shingles. It has a variety of distinct granule mixes for more textures, with 15 different colors available. While it has a Class A fire-resistance and 90 mph wind rating, it only offers limited warranties for its users.
Making your final decision
Building a new roof is a substantial and severe task. There are many pitfalls to avoid in the process, but it will streamline what looks like a tedious undertaking if you use the guide above. If your schedule is full and doesn’t know where to start, there are many Roofing contractors with great construction crew management system to help you. Doing so will avoid mistakes and potential reworks, which will save you both time and money.
If a roof is damaged, everything beneath it is at risk. So choose wisely!
