- Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing materials for steep roofs used today
- They come in many different colors, textures, and styles
- The two most common styles of shingles are a three-tab shingle or a dimensional shingle, which has another shingle laminated on top to give a layered appearance
- Asphalt shingles are made up of many different layers:
- The top layer consists of granules imbedded in asphalt, which give the shingle color, reflect light, and create a durable surface. The top layer also consists of a seal-down strip, which when heated by the sun, melts the shingles together to prevent wind uplifting.
- In the core of a shingle there is a fiberglass mat which holds the shingle together and provides a foundation that resists cracking and splitting.
- A shingle’s longevity can be anywhere from 15 years up to 40 years depending on the quality of the shingle, the slope of the roof, and proper ventilation.
