Architectural Shingles are an excellent material for roof replacement or construction. They combine the aesthetics of other materials and the durability and fire resistance of asphalt.
Do you need a new roof for your home? How will you select the best roofing materials available? Keep reading to find out what your options are, and why we have a favorite.
In this article, we’ll discuss roofing materials and highlight why architectural shingles are highly recommended.
Roofing Materials Available
Customers can choose from wooden shakes, slate roofs, metal roofing, or asphalt shingles. Asphalt shingles are available as three-tab shingles and architectural shingles.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material for homes. Architectural shingles are similar to traditional 3-tab shingles, but they are much thicker and more durable.
Three-tab Asphalt Shingles
Traditionally, these products came in 3-tab strips that are relatively thin and comprised of a single layer of asphalt and matting. This type of shingles is very economical and meets many roofing demands. Most 3-tab shingles have a guarantee of 20-30 years.
The main concern for most people regardless of the low cost is their weak wind speed rating of about 60 mph.
Architectural Shingles
Often referred to as dimensional shingles because of the depth and dimension they add to your roof, architectural shingles are made with stronger adhesives and more surface granules.
These characteristics help these shingles last longer and protect your home better, along with their extended warranties compared to 3-tab shingles. Homeowners can get warranties for their new architectural shingle roofs that last 30-50 years, and even lifetime coverage on materials and workmanship.
Architectural shingles have wind speeds of over 100 mph, and the GAF Timberline HDZ shingle is the first in the industry to have a no cap on wind speed for warranty coverage.
With increased thickness comes more weight, so again, some homes may need to be reinforced to sustain the weight of an architectural roof. However, most well-built homes should be able to withstand the additional weight.
When architectural shingles first came out in the ’70s, they were a game-changer for roofing contractors and consumers looking for a higher-end product. This product satisfied all of the shortcomings that traditional asphalt shingles and became the favored choice for many Cecil County roofing contractors.
A local roofer in Cecil County can assess whether your home qualifies for architectural roof shingles.
Alternatives to Asphalt Shingles
Alternatives to Asphalt shingles tend to be more expensive and heavy than asphalt options. We will list the most common alternatives.
Wood shake roofing includes unmatched beauty and protection, lasts a prolonged period, but is challenging to maintain.
Slate roofs are particularly durable but costly to manufacture and even more laborious to install. Plus, not every roof can take the weight of real slate.
Metal roofing is another strong material that lasts a lengthy amount of time and is comparatively easy to maintain but is also more expensive.
Conclusion How To Get Architectural Shingles
Our Cecil County roofing experts will help you choose the best asphalt shingles for your needs and budget. Do not resist contacting us with questions or if you would like to request a free estimate for our services.
Architectural shingles cost more money in the beginning, but the advantages will be seen over time as long as the roof is well cared for.
You can find more warranty information about the GAF products we install here on our website.
Tar Heel Installs New Roofs! We are an elite local roofing contractor because of our expertise, application of products specially designed for our climate, and outstanding warranty options. Call for a Free Estimate (410) 638-7021.
