Three easy Steps

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt is great for roofing because it is flexible, durable, inexpensive and fire resistant. Often your homeowner’s insurance will give you a break when you use this product over wood shingles. Asphalt shingles are rated according to hail resistance, so make sure you check that rating if hail is a normal occurrence in your area. They are also one of the least costly choices for roofing material.

Organic vs. Glass Fiber:

There are two types of asphalt shingles. One is organic, meaning it is composed of an organic felt that is usually paper saturated with asphalt. The other, glass fiber, has a layer of fiberglass embedded in it. Both are good roofing products and the glass fiber is more commonly used because it is less expensive. The organic is heavier, which makes it a good choice for climates with high winds.

Climate:

Climate directly affects the longevity of your roofing materials. Thermal shock, a drastic change in temperature within 24 hours, can cause cracking and splitting of the shingles which lets water in and then the problems begin. Warmer climates are tougher on asphalt shingles. Apparently, the extreme heat causes more damage and breaks down the shingles in a considerably shorter time period than cooler, northern climes. The difference in the life of your roof, depending on where you live can be as much as 6 years.

Warrantees:

Make absolutely sure you obtain and read a copy of each manufacturer’s warrantee before you buy their shingles! Reading this material could make the difference in which company you select. The general life span of shingles is 20 years, but in southern climates, it can be as little as 14 years, so check the warrantee to see how long the guarantee their product. Also be aware that many warrantees are prorated and non-transferable. So if you move, you warrantee is voided and if your shingles go bad in half the time the warrantee specifies, they will only reimburse you for half the cost of the shingles. These warrantees also do not include labor, as a general rule.

Cost:

When you get your estimates from at least three roofing contractors, make sure you check and see if removing the old shingles is included. It can cost as much as $3 to $5 per square foot for removal. Asphalt roofing shingles start as low as $ .80 per square foot installed and increase from there depending on grade, color, shape and architectural style. Costs can vary widely depending on where you live, the slope of your roof and how many corners and angles there are. The National Roofing Contractors Association had a guide to help you with information on buying a new roof and selecting a contractor.

When you get your estimates from at least three roofing contractors, make sure you check and see if removing the old shingles is included. It can cost as much as $3 to $5 per square foot for removal. Asphalt roofing shingles start as low as $ .80 per square foot installed and increase from there depending on grade, color, shape and architectural style. Costs can vary widely depending on where you live, the slope of your roof and how many corners and angles there are. The National Roofing Contractors Association had a guide to help you with information on buying a new roof and selecting a contractor.