Elite Construction Discusses The Tech In Asphalt Shingles

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Getting A Shingle Roof Replacement?
Learn The Science Of Shingles

Highlands Ranch, CO Homeowners
Need To Know

If you’re thinking about a shingle roof replacement in Highlands Ranch, CO, understanding asphalt shingles is helpful. Asphalt shingles remain the most popular roofing material in the country, as they combine affordability, durability, and a snappy look. At Elite Construction and Roofing, informed homeowners make the happiest customers! Here are some valuable considerations about the structure and performance of asphalt shingles so you can choose the best option for long-lasting protection and curb appeal.

Inside Asphalt Shingles

There is a lot more than meets the eye when it comes to today’s shingles – they are engineered for durability and performance. Understanding their internal makeup can give you a better understanding of what you’re paying for:

Fiberglass Mat Core: This is the “backbone” of the shingle, if you will. This layer provides strength and durability without adding weight.
Asphalt Coating: This saturates the fiberglass core, helping the shingle to resist water better.
Protective Granules: These are the bumps you see on top of a shingle. The mineral granules not only enhance color but also shield the shingles from UV damage and severe weather.
Adhesive Strip: This part of the shingle ensures a nice seal between the overlapping shingles. The tighter that seal is, the more your roof can prevent wind-driven rain from sneaking in.
Nail Zones: Rather than puncturing through the shingle, they are made with pre-set nail holes. This helps the shingle to stay put.

Types Of Asphalt Shingles: Know Your Options

Among just the asphalt-type of shingles, there are different kinds. Each one has a unique design, cost point, and durability profile. The three primary categories of asphalt shingles are:

Architectural (Dimensional) Shingles: These shingles have a layered, textured look that mimics natural slate or wood shakes. Their added thickness provides enhanced wind resistance and longer life expectancy. In Highlands Ranch, CO, wind-resilience is an important point to consider, and we recommend these shingles if it’s feasible for your budget.
Three-Tab Shingles: This is the most basic and economical option. These shingles lie flat on your roof and all have a uniform shape. Three-tab asphalt shingles are often chosen for their affordability and clean lines. Elite no longer installs these shingles as they are no longer up to code for Colorado’s extreme weather.
Luxury Shingles: As the name implies, these premium shingles are designed to emulate the highest quality roofing, like cedar or slate. They offer superior weather protection and eye-popping visual depth. The luxury shingles also, of course, have the heftiest price tag.

Additionally, there are four different “classes” of asphalt shingles. For example, class four shingles offer better impact resistance and durability than class three shingles. Ask your roofer for details.

What Lies Beneath: The Layers Of A Roofing System

To fully appreciate the different types of asphalt shingles, it helps to know how the whole roofing system works. A complete shingle roofing system includes a number of layers. Every component is important for safeguarding your home from the Denver area’s unpredictable climate:

Roof Decking: Also known as “roof sheathing,” this is the flat layer that sits on top of the frame. It’s the base or floor for the roofing materials.
Underlayment: Acting as a secondary moisture barrier, this layer sits directly on the roof deck and protects against water infiltration should the shingles become damaged. Different types of underlayment exist. The key components of a good underlayment are an ice and water shield as well as synthetic components. What you don’t want is underlayment that looks like felt paper.
Starter Strips: These pre-cut shingles are installed along the roof’s edges to enhance wind resistance. The starter strips also ensure the best conditions for the bottom layer of shingles.
Nail Strips And Adhesive Seals: Each shingle is secured with a nail strip, like tack strips for carpet. The shingles are then applied with adhesive that activates in the sun’s heat. This ensures a tight seal that deters wind uplift.

Pros And Cons Of Asphalt Shingles

As you can see, a lot goes into a simple-looking asphalt shingle – there is actually a pretty complex system at play. Are there any trade-offs? What are they?? Here’s a quick overview of the benefits and drawbacks of choosing asphalt for a shingle roof replacement in Highlands Rancho, CO:

Pros:

Affordable
Easy to install and replace
Many colors and styles are available
Suitable for Denver area temperatures

Cons:

Shorter lifespan than metal or tile options
Vulnerable to high winds and heavy hailstorms
Can fade and warp over time

Elite Construction and Roofing believes asphalt shingles are still a smart choice in Highlands Rancho, CO, especially if you keep up with maintenance and repairs. Contact Elite Construction and Roofing today for a shingle roof replacement quote.