Is Now the Perfect Time to Consider Architectural Shingles?
When you look at the majority of the homes in Fairhope, you will see that they have asphalt shingles. Asphalt shingles are by far the most popular roofing material in the United States. Homeowners use them when replacing an old roof or constructing a roof for new construction. They are popular because they are affordable, durable, and relatively easy to install.
Not all asphalt shingles are the same. Each type offers unique benefits and drawbacks regarding appearance, longevity, and price. They also have unique installation requirements.
What Are Architectural Shingles?
This style of asphalt shingle is commonly referred to as dimensional or laminated shingles. They represent top-quality roofing shingles. They are built with heavy fiberglass and mineral granules that are coated with ceramic, and they are embedded with water-resistant asphalt.
Architectural shingles are different than three-tab shingles because they have multiple layers of fiberglass mat. This is why they are thicker and have a unique aesthetic appeal. Because of their thickness and durability, architectural shingles typically have a better warranty than three-tab shingles.
Since they are built using sturdy, reliable materials, they are more expensive than thinner asphalt shingles. On average, you can expect to spend between $20 and $30 more per square foot to install architectural asphalt shingles compared to three-tab shingles. However, for many homeowners, they make up for the price because their dimensional quality makes them appealing to the eye. In addition, the high-quality materials they are made with will last for many years.
How Long Do Architectural Shingles Last?
Architectural shingles can last up to 30 years when properly maintained and installed. They are made from a thicker material, making your home’s roof more resilient. As with any shingles, severe weather like hailstorms, hurricanes, or tornadoes can lessen the lifespan of your shingles. A good rule of thumb used by professional roofers is that you should expect your architectural asphalt shingles to last for around 80% of their maximum lifespan because of weather conditions outside anyone’s control. While 30 years is typically the longest asphalt shingles last, you should expect them to last between 25 and 28 years if installed correctly, your roof is properly maintained, and your attic has sufficient ventilation.
How Much Do Architectural Shingles Cost?
Cost is a significant factor that homeowners consider when choosing a new roofing material. While the exact cost of roofing a home with architectural shingles will vary based on several factors, you can expect an architectural asphalt shingle roof to cost several dollars per square foot in Fairhope. This cost factors in upgrading the underlayment and using all of the roofing components recommended by the manufacturer. Although the cost of using architectural shingles can feel intimidating to a homeowner, you are investing in something that will last a long time. This makes it a better option than getting the least expensive roof possible.
How Durable Are Architectural Shingles?
Architectural shingles are more durable than traditional three-tab asphalt shingles. The wind rating for a three-tab shingle is 60 mph only if the shingles have the proper nail pattern. Architectural shingles are rated for up to 130 mph. Three-tab shingles have an exposed portion of the shingle that are divided into three sections. This means that the thinner, less expensive asphalt shingles are more likely to be lifted when the wind blows at high speeds.
Architectural Shingles Improve Curb Appeal
Since the 1980s, architectural shingles have been used to help homeowners set their roofs apart from their neighbors and improve the curb appeal of their houses. They come in various options, including those that look similar to authentic wood shake shingles. Architectural shingles can be designed to look like a slate carriage house roof without worrying about the weight restrictions that slate roofing materials require. They allow you to make your home look spectacular, protect your home against ultraviolet light, and repel water at a reasonable cost. Architectural shingles may enhance the appearance of your property since they are available in various colors, contours, and depths.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Architectural Shingles
Like all products, not all architectural shingles are created equal. At Quality Roofing, we only use high-quality materials to ensure that our customers’ roofs protect them and last for a long time. There are factors to consider when finding the right architectural shingles for your house.
The first factor is fire rating. Like all other roofing materials, asphalt shingles can be categorized as class A, B, or C. Class A rating means that, following ASTM E108 or UL 790, the shingles have a high degree of fire resistance and a self-ignition temperature of over 650 degrees Fahrenheit. By contrast, a class C shingle has a slight fire resistance and an ignition temperature of over 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
The next factor to consider is wind resistance. Architectural shingles typically have a wind resistance rating of 110 to 150 mph.
Algae resistance is classified as class I, II, or III. Class I resistance is the highest rating, signifying that the shingle is very resistant to algae. Class III indicates a shingle that is slightly resistant to algae.
Watertightness is ranked on a scale of 1 to 10. A 10 rating means that the architectural shingle is very waterproof, with one meaning that it is the least waterproof.
In all of these categories, a variety of protection levels are available. You must be aware of them and talk to your roofing installer about which brand of architectural shingle is best for your needs and which will provide your home with the highest level of protection.
Are Architectural Shingles Energy Efficient?
Yes. Since they are thicker and built from a more durable roofing material, they can better keep the elements outside your home. This minimizes your total energy cost. Architectural shingles do a great job of reflecting light as well. This means that heat is kept out of your home during the summer. You use less energy throughout the house, and this leads to lower expenses.
Architectural Shingles Are Cost-Effective
At first glance, this might seem contradictory because the upfront cost of architectural shingles is about 20% more than their three-tab counterpart. However, architectural shingles will last for many years and can increase the value of your home. Architectural shingles were primarily designed to be used on high-end homes in the 1980s. They are now more affordable and can be used on any commercial building or home.
Quality Roofing Throughout the Greater Orlando Area and the Gulf Coast
For more than two decades, we have been providing expert roof inspections, installations, and replacements to our clients. We set the standard for roofing companies in Alabama and Florida. We are Select Shingle Master certified, have an A+ Better Business Bureau accreditation, are members of FRSA and NRCA, and are recognized as Duro Last certified installers.
We provide storm damage services and install architectural and metal roofing. We also offer roofing inspection, repair, replacement, and maintenance services.
Contact Quality Roofing today to schedule an appointment.
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