Are you contemplating whether to choose between asphalt vs. fiberglass shingles when roofing your house? Both roofing materials have unique pros and cons, and that’s why it can be tricky to select what’s best. After reading this guide, you’ll be able to decide.
A new roof increases the value, thus the resale worth of your home. With the accurate rooftop, you can anticipate recovering almost 63 percent of the reasonable cost once your home value upsurges.
Shingles are the prevalent types of roofing materials on most residential homes. They come in different colors and styles, are cost-effective, protect your house, and can last for 20 years. However, choosing between asphalt vs. fiberglass shingles can be tricky.
What are Asphalt Shingles?
There are various alternatives when it comes to roofing, all of which have their merits and demerits. However, as far as your roofing options go, you must be sure to look at asphalt shingle roofing in Lubbock.
An asphalt shingle is durable, waterproof, and cheap roofing material. Its abundant colors and styles make it the most dominant type of roofing material in many countries.
Types of Asphalt Shingles
There are three types of asphalt shingles you can use to roof your house.
- Strip Asphalt Shingles
Strip shingles are the original and most basic asphalt shingles. The shingles are also known as 3-tab shingles. The roofing materials are made from a single layer of asphalt and come with a flat form that usually exhibits a slate look. Additionally, strip shingles typically cost and weigh less compared to other asphalt shingles.
- Dimensional Asphalt Shingles
Dimensional shingles are the most popular asphalt shingles. Also known as laminate shingles, the roofing materials come from two or more layers glued together for a denser multi-dimensional look.
Manufacturers make the product to replicate the wood shake and natural slate roofing aesthetics. Also, dimensional asphalt shingles weigh heavier than the 3-tab shingles.
- Luxury Asphalt Shingles
The high-quality luxury shingles provide a distinguished look and functionality that outshines other asphalt shingles. These stunning roofing materials offer exceptional protection against weathering and present high-quality coloration and dimensionality.
Advantages of Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles come with numerous pros for a better roofing experience. Here are the reasons you should roof using asphalt shingles.
- Easy to Install: Asphalt shingles are very light and easy to cut, hence easy to install. You don’t need special tools or exhausting preparations. This means that you will only have a few days to have a splendid roof over your head.
- Flexibility: Asphalt shingles can cover distinct roof shapes, forms, and angles. The roofing material works well with any roof, including a Dutch gable to cross-hipped.
- Environmentally Friendly: You can easily recycle asphalt shingles. The product’s quality gets better after recycling as opposed to other roofing materials. In addition, many organizations focus on the disposal of shingles. This guarantees that only a tiny fraction of shingles get to the environment.
- Durable: The asphalt shingle’s durability outshines other roofing materials in the market. Also, the roofing shingles provide resistance against extreme natural events like snow, rain, and hot temperatures. The type of roofing materials come with an opening to emit any heat or moisture confined in your roof’s upper floor.
- Less Costly: Among the roofing materials you can get in the market, asphalt shingles are among the most affordable choice. This makes it an ideal option for home builders on a low budget.
- Easy to Replace: You can easily replace your asphalt shingles. You can also replace the shingles one at a time without replacing the whole roof.
Disadvantages of Asphalt Shingles
The following are the cons of using asphalt shingles.
- Vulnerable to Wind Uplift: Inexpensive asphalt shingles can get defenseless to strong winds. This makes them detach easily, thus making your roof vulnerable to leakages.
- Can Easily Crack: Due to their lightweight nature, asphalt shingles can crack easily, especially when exposed to extreme temperature variations. In addition, extreme temperature fluctuations can cause your shingles to contract and expand, resulting in cracks.
- Warping: One major asphalt shingle drawback is that they absorb a lot of water. As a result, the shingles get prone to warping leading to a weak roof that doesn’t protect your home.
What Are Fiberglass Shingles?
Fiberglass shingles are a practical option for your roof installation project. In addition, you can get the products that come from a woven fiberglass base mat.
A waterproof asphalt coating covers the roofing material. It’s then topped with ceramic particles that protect the shingles from harmful UV rays.
Types of Fiberglass Shingles
There are two types of fiberglass shingles.
- Architectural Fiberglass Shingles
Also known as laminate shingles, roofing products are often the best option for more homeowners. Architectural shingles tabs come in different sizes and shapes but overlap in a manner that forms a visual interest on the roof.
- Three-tabs Fiberglass Shingles
Three-tab shingles are measured as the industry’s standard in homebuilding. Each shingle has three separate tabs, each even in shape and size.
Advantages of Fiberglass Shingles
Here are a few benefits of installing fiberglass shingles.
- Increased insulation: The layer of glass fiber upsurges the heat resistance of these shingles, giving them a faintly sound shielding factor for your home.
- Fire resistance: The fiberglass in the shingle substitutes the paper-based material in organic asphalt shingles, making it an ideal option for fireproofing.
- Value: The shingles are thinner and use less asphalt. However, fiberglass shingles naturally cost the same as organic shingles but are durable.
- Environmental benefits: Since fiberglass shingles have less asphalt, they’re better for the environment.
Disadvantages of Fiberglass Shingles
Like other roofing materials, fiberglass shingles also have a few drawbacks, including:
- Not The Best for Cold Climate: Extreme cold weather can make fiberglass shingles hard. This makes it hard to install or repair roofs during cold weather.
- Durability: Since the shingles are not as heavy and rugged, fiberglass shingles are often not as durable.
Final Words
Both shingles types have a similar look, comprise asphalt and pellets, and are installed the same way. If you are unsure what to opt for between asphalt vs. fiberglass shingles, consult a professional roofer to help you make most of your investment.