Are you considering adding shingles to your home as part of a remodel or new construction project? Do you want to learn more about the materials used to make them? If so, then you’ve landed on the right blog. “What Are Roofing Shingles Made Of?” is your go-to resource for learning more about the components and materials used to create traditional and modern roofing shingles. Here, you’ll find an overview of the different components and materials used, specific materials used to make various types of shingles, plus helpful tips for selecting the type of shingles that best suit your needs. Read on and get ready to transform your home with the perfect shingles.
Common Types of Roof Shingles in Grand Rapids?
Grand Rapids, Michigan is home to many homeowners who select common roof shingles for their homes. Asphalt shingles are a popular choice for Grand Rapids homeowners as they provide a great way to maintain a stylish look at an affordable cost. Metal shingles are also available for those looking for an upgrade to their roof. Metal shingles are longer lasting and more resilient than asphalt shingles, but can cost more. Regardless, both asphalt and metal shingles will last many years and help your home stand up to the harsher Michigan winter weather.
The best type of roofing shingles for your home will ultimately depend on different factors, such as the climate in your area, the look you’re trying to achieve, and your budget. No matter which type of roofing shingles you choose in the end, make sure to research different materials and designs to find the right roofing products for your needs!
What are Roofing Shingles Made Of?
There are so many choices when it comes to all the products called roof shingles. The materials used in making them vary, depending on the type of product you’re looking for. Do you want practical and affordable shingles? Do you want to use shingles that will beautify your home exteriors? Or would you prefer weather-proofed shingles that will last a long time?
Most quality shingles today are made from asphalt and fiberglass because these are the best materials for waterproofing and sun protection.
Asphalt Shingles
Roof shingles made from asphalt are composed of a thick, waterproof asphalt base with a mineral surface coating. An asphalt shingle is made up of fiberglass mat material which is then soaked in asphalt and then sprinkled with stone granule surfacing. The fiberglass based roof shingles are then treated with various chemicals to provide the shingle with waterproofing characteristicsduring the manufacturing process. The surface layer is composed of ceramic-coated mineral granules and often includes a high-gloss, hot asphalt coating for extra protection. The mineral granules help protect the shingle from UV radiation, ultraviolet rays and water, safeguarding the asphalt shingle fibers from premature deterioration.
The underlayment are the underlying roof building materials between the roof deck and the shingles. This layer of synthetic or organic felt and various types of ice and water barrier membranes offer extra protection to the roof deck and helps to keep moisture from entering the attic or home. The denser and/or higher quality underlayment materials will extend the life of shingles.
3-Tab Shingles
Though 3 tab shingles may appear to be a cheaper option for roofing, they are not the best choice in the long run. 3 tab shingles do not provide the same level of protection that other roofing options offer, and they lack the strength and durability of higher quality materials. 3 tab shingles can start to look worn and faded after just a few years, meaning that you will have to replace them more often. Additionally, these shingles are not always made of the most resilient materials, so your roof could be at higher risk of damage from strong winds, hail, and other weather-related elements. All in all, opting for more expensive, higher quality roofing materials will give you better protection, longevity, and a longer potential lifespan for your roof.
Architectural Shingles
Architectural shingles are multi layer laminated shingles made from a combination of fiberglass and asphalt materials. Organic based shingles became cost prohibitive mant years ago, so every manufacturer now uses fiberglass. The fiberglass mat provides strength and flexibility, while the asphalt coating ensures the shingle is waterproof. And like the 3-tab shingles, a mineral granule coating is also applied to protect it from UV rays. But unlike 3-tab shingles, which have only one layer of material, architectural shingles are made with two or more layers that are bonded together for extra durability and visual appeal. This makes them heavier than 3-tab shingles and more resistant to wind damage. They come in different colors to fit your overall home exterior design and motif.
Impact-Resistant Shingles.
SBS modified shingles are flexible roof shingles made to offer enhanced durability and longevity. These shingles are built using a fiberglass base that is saturated with a rubberized asphalt compound. This rubberized compound is modified with SBS (styrene-butadiene-styrene) components, which provide the shingles with greater flexibility and strength for better performance. This allows them to hold up better against extreme weather conditions, high winds and large hail. SBS modified shingles are also more resistant to cracking, shrinking and algae growth which can result in unsightly staining on the roof. In addition, this type of shingle is made with multiple layers of asphalt sealant. this asphalt sealant will helt hold them down in strong wind.
SBS modified shingles offer a great combination of performance and affordability. Thanks to the rubberized asphalt and SBS components, these shingles are far more durable than standard shingles.
Synthetic Shingles
A relatively new type of shingle that we have started working with is the F-Wave Revia Shingle. F-Wave shingles are made of TPO, a material that is traditionally used in commercial roofing project, but are made to mimic the look of wood shingles, or slate. They tend to be about half the price of wood shingles and dont require the maintanence. TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) roofing is a type of commercial roofing system that is designed to provide durability, strength, and flexibility, while also providing energy efficiency and being cost effective. It is made primarily of ethylene-propylene and polypropylene rubber compounds, and it is designed to be reflective, offering applications with excellent UV resistance. TPO roofing is a great choice for commercial buildings due to its ability to protect against extreme temperatures, fire, and ozone. These shingles are more durable than more common roofing material, and also are better in wind due to thermally activated asphalt sealant.
Which Kind of Roofing Material Is Best For You?
Relatively lightweight, inexpensive, and easy to install, asphalt roofing shingles are the most common roofing material for a reason. modern shingles are the best choice for most residential roofing applications.
Asphalt roofing shingles are a popular choice for homeowners because of their relatively lightweight, inexpensive, and easy-to-install nature. An asphalt shingle roof can be installedy a professional roofer quickly and easily, and the materials are more affordable than some other roofing options. Asphalt shingles provide strong protection from inclement weather, including rain, snow, high winds, and hail storms, making your roof simply extend past its expected shelf life. They also come in various colors, so you can customize your roof’s appearance according to your preference and design—making them one of the most versatile and durable roofing products available for residential roofing projects. With all these advantages combined, asphalt shingles are often considered the best option for most houses!
The installation is more important than the product. Most shingles will perform very well if they are installed over solid sheathing, with proper underlayment material, with the edge seams offset to the manufacturers specs.
Need Help From An Expert?
If you need help from an expert regarding your roofing project, look no further than Magnum Roofing and Construction. We provide a wide array of roofing services, including new roof installation, repair, and replacement. We provide all kinds of roofing systems, and other materials, including high-quality, high-performance roof shingles of all kinds. We design our services and choose roofing and other building materials to help protect your properties from harsh elements and keep your homes beautiful. We have done many shingle installations in the West Michigan region and have continued to satisfy homeowners for many years.
Magnum Roofing also offers inspections, maintenance, and clean-up services. So, if you are unsure about your roof’s current condition, we can send our team of roof inspectors and expert installers to make assessments, so you know how to move forward.
Our experienced technicians are highly trained and equipped with the necessary tools to complete all projects professionally and efficiently. With our quality service and high-performance raw materials, you can be sure that your roof project is handled by the best in the roofing industry. Contact us today at 616-622-3072, and let us help you get started!
