Asphalt and Composite Shingle Roofs

When it comes to roofing, asphalt shingles are one of the most popular options. At the core, all asphalt shingles start off being made from organic materials such as paper and fiberglass, which have been saturated with asphalt and coated with ceramic granules. Some of the higher-end versions additionally include specially engineered synthetic ingredients as well.

Asphalt shingles come in a variety of types, styles, and colors, which means your roof can be as unique as you are. Whether you’re looking for a traditional look or something more modern, there are plenty of options available to choose from. As a leading 5-star roofing company, we specialize in the installation and maintenance of asphalt and composite shingle roofs, and we understand the many benefits that they provide.

  • 3-tab / Traditional / Standard / Strip / Organic / Fiberglass: 3-tab shingles, also known as standard, traditional, or strip shingles, are the most basic type of composition shingle. They are called “3-tab” because they have three tabs, or sections, per shingle. These shingles are flat and have a uniform shape and size, making them less visually appealing than other types of shingles. They are also not as durable as other options and are more prone to cracking and curling over time. These shingles are usually referred to as being either organic or fiberglass. While both are considered asphalt shingles, the fiberglass ones additionally use a layer of fiberglass and less asphalt in their overall composition instead and are a little bit cheaper as well. While the traditional asphalt shingle category may be a more economical choice for some do-it-yourself homeowners, they are not nearly as durable or attractive as the laminated ones. Furthermore, considering the relatively minor cost differential between this inferior version and its longer-lasting and higher-end counterpart, our company does not offer these simple 3-tab roofing option in our available product line.
  • Architectural / Dimensional: Dimensional shingles are a greatly upgraded version of the traditional and outdated 3-tab ones. This newer and improved roofing style features a textured laminated composite asphalt material that uses a more effective and thicker multi-layered approach. This layering creates a “dimensional” look that is considerably more attractive than the simple flat standard strip ones. Aside from their superior appearance, these laminated architectural shingles are much more durable and resistant to cracking and curling. Composite dimensional shingles are also more resistant to wind, hail, and other extreme weather than the basic 3-tab shingles.
  • Designer / Luxury / Premium / Presidential: Luxury shingles are one of the most visually appealing and highest-quality types of laminated composite asphalt roofing material on the market today. These designer shingles are made with a composition of three or more layers of asphalt and a fiberglass mat, making them one of the thickest and strongest types of laminated composite asphalt roofing material available. They are usually designed to mimic the look of wood, slate, or other high-end roofing materials. Additionally, these premium shingles offer superior insulation and energy efficiency due to their thicker construction. Though these laminated shingles may be more expensive than other types of lower-end shingle materials, they offer unmatched durability and protection against the elements and can last up to 50 years or more with proper maintenance and care.
  • Performance Shingles (Wind, Hail, Fire, Algae, or Impact Resistant Shingles): This is also considered a premium shingle with the exception that is more focused on performance. These unique laminated composite materials are specifically engineered with special materials and coatings to provide yet an additional layer of extra protection for your home or business. These shingles are made with asphalt combined with special materials that make them extremely resistant to wind, hail, fire, algae, and impact. They are also thicker and more durable than any other type of shingles, making them the most resistant to wind and weather. Performance shingles are also the most expensive type of shingle, but they are worth the investment if you want to protect your home or business from extreme weather conditions.
  • Durability and Longevity: Depending upon which style you select, these shingles can be extremely durable and last for decades with proper maintenance. These watertight shingles are designed to withstand varying degrees of extreme weather conditions, including heavy rain, high winds, hail, snow, and UV rays, making them a great choice for homes in areas with high temperatures or frequent storms. In fact, some of our performance product line are rated with the highest possible “Class 4” rating for hail impact resistance.
  • Fire Resistant: Most are resistant to fire and receive a top-rated “Class A” fire rating.
  • Low Maintenance: All forms of these shingles are resistant to algae and moss growth, which can be a problem with other types of roofing materials. Additionally, the laminated composite-based ones are engineered to require even less maintenance and can last for decades with the proper care. They are also easy to clean and repair, making them a great choice for busy homeowners who don’t have a lot of time to spend on their roofing.
  • Aesthetics and Versatility: All versions come in a variety of colors and styles, so homeowners can choose a look that best suits their homes. They can also be used on almost any pitched roof with a slope of at least 2:12, including gable and hip construction.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: These shingles are relatively inexpensive compared to other roofing materials, and they are easy to install. This makes them a popular choice for homeowners who are looking to save money on their roofing projects.
  • Energy Efficiency: All versions of asphalt shingles are quite energy efficient, which means that they can help to keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. This can help to lower your energy costs and make your home more comfortable.
  • Lightweight: Compared to other roofing materials, these are lightweight, which means that they are easier to maneuver and install than the other types. They also require very little maintenance, meaning that you won’t have to worry about constantly checking for damage or replacing parts.

One of the main disadvantages of asphalt or composite shingles is that they do not last as long as some other types of roofing materials such as metal or slate. For example, some asphalt shingles only typically have a lifespan of around 15-30 years, while other types of higher-end roofing materials can last for 50+ years. This means that homeowners will have to replace their shingle roofs more often than other types of roofs.

Another disadvantage of asphalt shingles is that they are not as environmentally friendly as other types of roofing materials. They are made from petroleum products, which are not sustainable and require a lot of energy to manufacture, which can contribute to environmental pollution.

Despite these disadvantages, asphalt shingles are still an excellent choice for homeowners looking to install a new roof on their houses. Though they are durable, cost-effective, versatile, and easy to maintain, it is always important to work with a professional roofing contractor like us that has the necessary skills in working with this material and to ensure that your roof is properly installed and maintained.

When you hire Reimagine Roofing, you can be assured that you are getting a team of experienced professional and expert roofers that will make the process as simple and painless as possible. Contact us today for a free no-obligation, comprehensive roofing inspection, and estimate.

Still not sold on getting an asphalt shingle roof? No worries! We have other shingle options available. For example, the other three types of shingle roofing materials that we offer are:

390 5-Star Customer Reviews

Why choose Reimagine Roofing? Here is what some of our customers are saying about our service.

My experience with Reimagine has been a 10/10.

Brenna Franklin

Reimagine Roofing was truly a pleasure to work with. They were very helpful and knowledgeable about all topics, including my insurance claim.

Lauren Dazey

Compliments and gratitude to Reimagine Roofing for pulling off a roofing miracle on a deadline with only 5-days’ notice to save the sale of our property.

David Krensing

The project manager was super to work with. Installers very professional and courteous. Definitely a top shelf company.

Danny Peterson

Reimagine Roofing customer service department

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