There are two main categories of asphalt shingles: fiberglass and organic-mat. In order to make organic shingles waterproof, a cellulose-fiber mat made of wood is used. The ceramic granules are then inserted after a top covering of adhesive asphalt has been applied. Organic shingles weigh more and have great durability and blow-off resistance because they include around 40% more asphalt per square (100 sq. ft.) than their glass fiber counterparts.

Glass fiber reinforcement mats are produced specifically to fit the curvature of fiberglass shingles. The asphalt, which includes fillers made of minerals, is next applied on this mat. By alone, the fiberglass mat is not waterproof. It is for reinforcing purposes only. The asphalt is what renders the fiberglass shingle waterproof. However, the asphalt won’t adhere to the mat on its own. Fillers are employed as a result. The glass fibers in the mat’s glass fillers adhere to them. The glass fibers are then enclosed by the asphalt, which also completely fills up all of the mat’s tiny gaps and voids to make it waterproof. The ceramic granules are then implanted when this has had time to cool slightly and adhesive asphalt has been used to cover the mat.

Wood Shingles are tapered and often have a rather smooth surface. They are sawn from wood blocks. Wood shakes are made by splitting blocks of wood; they are thinner than shingles, occasionally include grooves, and typically have minimal taper. Shakes can be divided, then sawn to provide a relatively flat side that is turned away from the weather during installation, as well as a taper. On sidewalls, shakes and shingles are also an option.

Shingles Roof is one of the most popular types for pitched roofs. It is affordable and undemanding to install and maintain by a professional compared to Tile Roofs. It offers various types and colors in order to match your home exterior, and a cool roof system (Title 24) which is perfect for heat resistance.

According to the Department of Energy, cool roof systems decrease heat absorption by reflecting the sunlight away from the roof. Therefore, helping in:

• Reducing energy bills by decreasing air conditioning needs
• Helping older inefficient (or undersized) air conditioners provide enough cooling for today’s hotter summers
• Qualifying for money-saving rebates from utilities or government programs
• Making it possible to downsize new or replacement air conditioning equipment, saving money and potentially increasing cooling efficiency
• Improving indoor comfort and safety for spaces that are not air conditioned
• Decreasing roof temperature, which may extend roof service life

It is also a good environmentally-friendly product to:

• Lower local outside air temperatures, thereby lessening the urban heat island effect
• Slow the formation of smog from air pollutants, which are temperature-dependent, by cooling the outside air
• Reduce peak electricity demand, which can help prevent power outages
• Decrease power plant emissions by reducing the demand for energy to cool buildings.
• Help offset global warming by reflecting more sunlight to outer space

For more information, kindly visit the US Department of Energy and Cool Roofs Org.

In regards to lifespan, shingles can last up to 25-30 years. But just like any vehicle, a proper and regular maintenance check can help you get the most out of the roof lifespan. It can be every 2-3 years, just as long as your roof is checked for crack sealant in chimneys, pipes and vents, if there are any missing shingles, and gutters be cleaned of any debris for prevention of any future leaks and damages.

ARH Roofing, your neighborhood crew of trustworthy roofers, proudly serves California. We can take care of your installation, maintenance, or replacement needs for residential or commercial shingles. We work with asphalt, wood shakes, composition (fiberglass) shingles, and other roofing materials.