Asphalt roofing shingles are a popular choice for residential and commercial buildings. They provide great protection against harsh weather conditions and are affordable and easy to install. Understanding how asphalt roofing shingles are made is important to make an informed decision when it comes time to purchase them for your home or business in Monroe, WA.
A roofs and decks installer explains more about it here.
What Are Asphalt Roofing Shingles?
Asphalt roofing shingles are composed of two layers of material bonded together with an asphalt core sandwiched between the two layers. The top layer is usually formed from ceramic-coated granules that provide UV protection from the sun’s rays, while the bottom layer gives additional stability and strength against wind damage and other elements.
How Asphalt Roofing Shingles Are Made
Raw Materials. The raw materials used in making asphalt roof shingles include bitumen, sand grains and gravel, along with synthetic polymers such as ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber (EPDM rubber). These materials are mixed and then heated at high temperatures until liquefied and ready for further processing and manufacturing.
Manufacturing Process. Once all components have been prepared accordingly, they are pressed into large mats using rollers. Once cooled down, they are cut into individual squares, now known as asphalt roofing shingles.
Quality Control. Quality control is implemented throughout the entire process to ensure each product meets the desired standards set forth by manufacturers.
Types of Asphalt Roofing Shingles
Premier home improvement companies use several different types of asphalt roof shingles available today. Today’s market features several types of asphalt shingles, each designed to deliver specific benefits in terms of performance, aesthetics, and resistance to weather elements.
Organic Materials (e.g., Wood or Cedar Shakes)
While not technically asphalt shingles, wood shakes and cedar shingles are sometimes grouped with roofing options offered by premium contractors. These materials provide a natural, rustic appearance and are especially popular for historic or craftsman-style homes. However, they require more maintenance and are less fire-resistant unless specially treated.
Three-Tab Shingles
These are the most traditional and economical option. Made from a single layer of asphalt, three-tab shingles have a flat appearance and uniform shape. While they offer decent protection and a clean look, their thinner profile makes them less durable than more modern alternatives. They typically last around 20 years and are best suited for budget-conscious homeowners or homes in milder climates.
Dimensional or Architectural Shingles (Laminate)
A step up in both appearance and performance, architectural shingles are made from multiple layers of asphalt fused together. This gives them a thicker, more dimensional appearance that can mimic the look of natural slate or wood shakes. They’re more resistant to wind and weather damage than three-tab shingles and generally come with longer warranties—often 30 years or more.
Designer or Luxury Shingles
These shingles offer premium aesthetics and are designed to replicate high-end roofing materials such as slate or cedar shakes, without the associated cost or weight. Many designer shingles are impact-resistant, making them ideal for areas prone to hail or severe storms. They are typically more expensive, but their durability, curb appeal, and potential insurance savings make them a worthwhile investment for some homeowners.
Interlocking Shingles (Often Metal-Based)
Though not asphalt-based, interlocking shingles are sometimes offered by comprehensive roofing contractors as an alternative for added durability. These are typically made from metal and are designed to lock together, providing superior wind resistance and a sleek, modern look. They’re ideal for regions with extreme weather and offer a longer lifespan than most asphalt products.
Benefits of Asphalt Roofing Shingles
Asphalt roof shingles offer many advantages over traditional options such as metal roofs or tile roofs.
- They come with lower installation costs.
- They require less maintenance than other types.
- They have excellent durability against fire resistance ratings.
- They last longer due to their higher wind rating.
- They come with attractive warranties on most products offered by manufacturers.
- They come in a wide variety of colors, so you can easily customize the look of your home or business without having to repaint regularly.
If you need to replace your asphalt shingles or install decks in Seattle, Tacoma and other nearby areas in WA, call State Roofing & Exteriors at (360) 794-7164 or fill out our contact form to get started on your project.
