There is a lot to think about when you get a new roof for your home. What is the cost? How long does it take? Moreover, what type of roofing materials are the most popular? Though the options can seem overwhelming, many homeowners choose asphalt shingle roofing systems.
The versatility of asphalt, combined with its durability and aesthetically pleasing look, makes it a go-to roofing material for many homeowners. These shingles are available in styles to suit every home and come in a variety of colors to fit the aesthetic desires of each homeowner.
Over the years, asphalt shingles have gained popularity, and today over 80% of roofs in America are covered in them. What factors make them an ideal choice for homeowners? Moreover, which shingle manufacturer should you consider investing in?
How To Get The Best Asphalt Shingle Roofing System
Getting the best asphalt shingle roofing system is a matter of understanding your installation options, researching the key factors that influence the quality of your roof, and comparing the traits and prices of top-rated systems. Read on to learn how to do this.
#1 Selecting The Right Mat
The type of shingles you choose can change your roof’s look, feel, and durability. The two major types are fiberglass and organic asphalt.
Fiberglass shingles are not just waterproof but also resistant to fire and termites. They are covered with asphalt and minerals such as mica, schist, quartz, slate, ceramic, or stone are used to make fiberglass shingles. Then, ceramic granules top off the shingle and protect it against the sun’s harmful rays, ensuring that your home stays cool in the summertime and warmer in the winter. Fiberglass roofing is ideal for homeowners who are looking to improve the curb appeal of their property. It is strong, durable, and comes in various colors and styles — making it the perfect choice to give your home a fresh new look.
Organic mat-based shingles are made of recycled felt paper and asphalt mixture that is then covered with an exceptional adhesive asphalt to form the base. Organic mat-based shingles are more costly, heavier, and thicker than fiberglass shingles. While these asphalt shingle roofs contain a higher percentage of asphalt, they are less environmentally friendly and more likely to warp over time.
So, fiberglass or organic asphalt? Both the base mat material is popular among homeowners. Most homeowners would choose fiberglass as it is more cost-effective, lightweight, and fire-rated, but some may want to go with an organic shingle base that is more durable.
To know more about the right base mat, give us a call at (609) 845-3576. Our team will assist you in making informed decisions.
#2 Choosing The Best Asphalt Roof Shingles
Homeowners who are thinking of replacing their aging shingles can find a myriad of options for asphalt shingle roofing systems. There are three basic types available: “architectural”, which are thicker and more attractive; “designer”, which feature textures and multicolored granules; and “3-tab”, which are the most affordable and durable option.
Let us take a look at these shingles so that you can select the best option for your home.
3-Tab Shingles
Three-tab shingles are a popular choice because they are simple to install and have a long lifespan. They are made from a single layer of asphalt and have a flat appearance that typically offers a slate look. They can be used on various slope roofs and are perfect for residential properties. While their price may be less than other shingle types, pros know it is worth spending a few extra dollars per square for seamless, durable three-tab work.
Architectural Shingles
Architectural shingles are made with a unique construction that gives them the contoured, dimensional look that makes them stand out from other types of shingles. While they contain no cutouts, the lower portions of the shingles are laminated with an additional asphalt layer. Although architectural shingles are known for their durability, they should not be used on low-slope roofs. Low-slope roofs are more vulnerable to wind-driven rain, which can quickly move over a roof’s edge and into the home.
Luxury Shingles
A luxury shingle is a perfect way to elevate the aesthetic appeal of your home exterior and make it stand out. These high-quality, thick shingles often mimic the look of other roofing materials such as wood shakes or slate but with a sleek and modern aesthetic. These shingles are made with carefully-selected materials, producing a unique and differentiated product. They are an affordable way to make your home stand out without breaking the bank.
When you are shopping for shingles, there are many choices. It can get pretty confusing, especially if your project is in an area where harsh weather can be. That is why we recommend talking to a roofing company that specializes in asphalt shingles roofing installation.
#3 Choosing The Perfect Shingle colors
When shopping for asphalt shingles, the most challenging thing is choosing the right ones. When you walk into a store, you may think that all asphalt shingles look the same. With the rising costs of materials and labor, we cannot replace our roofs every other year. However, here at Champion Exteriors, we aim to educate and help you choose the right kind of roof for your home.
Color is a fundamental part of the home. It can help define a theme, set a mood and tone, bring together various elements and make you feel happy when you step inside. You will find a wide range of colors when looking for an asphalt shingle roofing system. Finding the perfect color is easy, from grays and browns to greens and blues. If you are looking for something bold, opt for a color like reddish or brown. For a more subtle color, try a shade of beige. With so many shades to choose from, you are sure to find one that will make your house stand out on the block.
#4 Energy Efficient Asphalt Shingles: Cool Roofs
For homeowners looking to cut living expenses, energy-efficient asphalt shingles are the new trend in green living. Asphalt shingles are now being manufactured with cool-roof technology that heats less of your home so that you can avoid having to turn on your air conditioner as much. Check with your roofing manufacturer to know if it’s available in your area or not.
#5 Top Manufacturers Of Asphalt Shingles
There are many asphalt shingle roofing system options available today that can create diverse and striking looks. Well-known brands have tools to help homeowners find their perfect asphalt shingle style. To create a new roof with excellent style, try combining two or more colors in your home’s asphalt shingles to create a custom look.
GAF
GAF is the leading roofing manufacturer in the U.S. They offer a wide range of styles, including 3-tab, designer, and architectural shingles. The Timberline HDZ shingles can handle high-wind areas and come with a 50-year warranty. The company itself is actively engaged in industry initiatives, such as the Certified Green Roofer program to encourage the recycling of asphalt shingles and provide specialized training for contractors.
Owens Corning
Owens Corning is a leading manufacturer of asphalt shingles in America. Oakridge Shingles are among the most sought-after asphalt shingles on the market, and their durability and long-term performance make them ideal for homes with an exposed roof. Their Oakridge and Duration lines of shingles deliver a range of styles that are perfect for your home.
Certainteed
Certainteed shingles are one of the most trusted in the industry. They are backed by a century of experience — and the warranties to live up to it. These shingles boast an incredible number of applications, giving you the freedom to choose what is best for your home. Whether you are looking for a classic, old-world look or you want a more modern appearance with dimensionality and class, Certainteed has you covered.
TAMKO
TAMKO believes in pushing its products to the limit. They know that how a product looks is just as crucial as how it performs. The company’s proprietary manufacturing process takes color and grayscale images. It renders them on shingles — guaranteeing that each shingle has vividly realistic colors, something you will not always get from other manufacturers.
Atlas
Atlas’ StormMaster shingles are specifically designed to withstand extreme weather. They maintain optimal energy efficiency with a greater protection level and exceptional durability, even during natural disasters and fierce thunderstorms.
Atlas shingles are more than just a product. It is a lasting investment that protects your home from all kinds of weather for several years down the road.
IKO
IKO is the industry-leading provider of asphalt shingles, offering a line of colored shingles. Their shingle is an innovative product line that offers a variety of beautiful, subtle colors for the exterior of your home. IKO is committed to exceeding customer expectations with its homeowner and contractor product lines.
The selection of great roofing manufacturers is a blessing and a curse for homeowners. The abundance of options today can be stressful, but it is also an opportunity to pick the right one for you. Each manufacturer we have featured here has a proven track record of excellence, deep knowledge of its product — and most importantly, offers an option that matches your budget and priorities.
#6 Choosing The Right Roofing Company
There are a lot of roofing companies out there. Whether you are just looking for an average replacement job or want a top-of-the-line roof installed, there is a roofing contractor in your area who can help you. When comparing contractors, do not just consider their price — compare the quality of their materials, warranty information and references.
Champions Exteriors offers a wide range of affordable residential and commercial roof installations in the Northern East and Southern West part of New Jersey. Our team can handle any size project, no matter how big or small — with years of experience. We pride ourselves on quality workmanship and provide you with the best service at affordable prices.
Moreover, we offer a 5-year no-leak guarantee with every asphalt shingle roofing installation. We believe in 100% customer happiness, and that is why we have our team of experts on call to help you with any issues that come up.