An asphalt roof is one of the most common roofs you’ll find in residential neighborhoods. It’s not because the roof is made of asphalt but because it’s using asphalt shingles from other companies to make up the roof. Asphalt shingles are the most common American roofing material, comprising more than 78 percent of homes in the country. Let’s look at the asphalt roof and why it’s an important part of building.
Many consumers who don’t understand how roofing work commonly refer to a roof as an “asphalt roof.” While this isn’t technically wrong, it’s not accurate either. As we said before, an asphalt roof is composed of asphalt shingles. There are two types of asphalt shingles: Fiberglass and organic. Organic shingles are made of living materials, like paper or wood fiber and combined with asphalt to make them completely waterproof. Fiberglass shingles utilize a glass base layer, then coated with asphalt to make them waterproof.
Asphalt shingles make for a great roofing product because they provide a variety of function for the modern home. This functionality includes: A handful of shapes, textures, colors and resistance. The resistance includes everything from fire, algae and hail. Asphalt shingles are durable, weather resistant and can last for years as long as they’re properly maintained and inspected by the homeowner or a roofer.
Depending on where you live in the country and what type of home you own, an asphalt roof may be the best bet. An asphalt roof can last a lifetime in many cases when the weather is consistent, the temperatures are mild and the roof is maintained properly. In more temperamental climates, especially the Midwest where you see a lot of hail, you may have more issues. While asphalt shingles can stand the punishment, you still may need to have your roof repaired or potentially replaced more often.
The next time you have your roof looked at, consider asphalt shingles if you haven’t already. They make a world of difference, can take the punishment and are an affordable long-lasting option for any home or roofing system.
