Architectural Shingle Guide
by William Gerard
When choosing a roofing material, don't overlook architectural shingles. This material can provide a durable and attractive roofing option for any home.
1. Basics
At first glance, architectural shingles look like standard asphalt shingles, but a closer look will show many differences. Generally, architectural shingles are considered much more durable. Instead of an asphalt-infused mat, the shingles are built on a sturdy fiberglass mat. This provides more structural strength and increased waterproofing. The fiberglass also weathers well.
Another difference is the coating. While standard asphalt shingles are covered in gravel granules, architectural shingles have a ceramic coating. The ceramic granules are embedded in the fiberglass mat deeply, which creates a more durable structure with less expected granule loss over time. The result is an extremely hard-wearing shingle that is resistant to moisture, weathering, and UV damage.
2. Appearance
The method of making architectural shingles also gives them a more attractive appearance. The ceramic-coated minerals reflect light and provide more dimension to the color of the shingles, compared to the relatively flat appearance of standard asphalt shingles. Often, two or more colors of granules are used to further add color and depth to the look of the shingles.
You can also find architectural shingles made to mimic the look of other materials. There are shake-style shingles that look almost like wood shakes, as well as those made to mimic the appearance of slate. The shingles are also available in shapes other than the traditional rectangle or three-tab style. You can find scales, scalloped, and even square-shaped shingles if you want a more unique look on your roof.
3. Installation
Architectural shingles are installed similar to any asphalt shingle. The roof itself will consist of three layers: the plywood decking, roofing felt or paper, and the architectural shingles. In damp climates, there may be a water seal applied on top of the felt and below the shingles. Architectural shingles are nailed and sealed in place using the same technique as those used for standard asphalt shingles.
One thing to keep in mind is that finding a match for your architectural shingles for future repairs can be difficult since colors and designs tend to change every few years. Many homeowners solve this problem by keeping a few extra shingles stored following installation. This ensures that there is a perfect match if repairs are ever necessary.
Contact a residential roofing company like Reitzel Home Improvement for more information on your shingle options.
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About Me
Do you know how to tell if you have problems with your flashing, loose shingles, or damaged tar pitch? Well, I didn't either until I experienced some of those issues on my own. One day, I realized that my roof was leaking and that I needed to find a solution fast. After contacting a professional roofing company, they were able to solve my troubles and teach me the signs of trouble. I want you to avoid the same types of hassles, which is why my blog is filled to the brim with information about roofing and home ownership. You never know, these tips could really come in handy!