Asphalt shingles are among today’s most popular roofing options. They protect over 75% of homes in the U.S. This material is known for its cost-effectiveness, durability and appeal. You can get them in various styles and colors to elevate your humble abode’s look.

An asphalt shingle roofing system has several components designed to work together to protect your home against harsh outdoor elements. Keep reading to learn more.

What Makes Asphalt Shingle Roofs So Popular?

Ease of Installation and Maintenance

Compared to slate, concrete, and clay, asphalt shingles weigh significantly less. It’s the reason contractors can easily install, repair and maintain them. Since they are lightweight, you don’t have to worry about them compromising the structural integrity of your home. 

Durability

You can count on asphalt shingles to provide your home with excellent protection against harsh weather conditions and the elements. They stand up well against high winds. Some even come with superior impact and fire resistance.  

Versatility

Regardless of your house’s architectural design, there’s an asphalt shingle option for you. This residential roofing material is available in a wide selection of styles, colors and finishes. Three-tab is the most popular choice since it works with various home styles. You also have the option between luxury and dimensional shingles. Some variations even resemble the look of slate, cedar shakes and other materials.

Appeal

Another great thing about asphalt shingles is that they can elevate the beauty of your humble abode. When installed properly, they can boost your property’s curb appeal, which is great if you’re listing it in the future. Make sure to select shingles that complement your home’s existing exterior components. 

Cost-Effectiveness

With asphalt shingles, you don’t need to spend a lot to have a dependable and attractive roof. It’s one of the many reasons millions of homeowners in the U.S. prefer this material. While cost-effective, asphalt shingles provide excellent strength and improve your home’s weather resistance. They can even last at least two decades with proper installation and maintenance. 

What Are Their Essential Components?

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles come with a base fiberglass mat for added strength and durability. This mat is waterproof because it’s coated with asphalt. The outer surface of shingles is embedded with granules that give them color and UV protection. Some shingles have reflective sediments that deflect more solar heat, helping make indoor spaces easier to cool in summer. 

Moreover, there are three main types of asphalt shingles, which are three-tab, dimensional and luxury. Strip or three-tab is the most basic variation of asphalt shingles. They have one layer of asphalt and a flat appearance. Three-tab shingles dominated the market before the introduction of dimensional shingles. 

Architectural or dimensional shingles are currently the most popular type of asphalt shingles. They feature at least two layers of asphalt joined together for added thickness and dimension. 

If you wish to give your home more character, consider luxury shingles. Aside from their elegance, they deliver superior protection against the elements. They are known for possessing the appearance of natural wood shake and slate roofing. 

Underlayment

Professionals secure the underlayment on the roof deck before installing the shingles. While hidden, this component plays a crucial role in preventing leaks. Without it, the decking could be exposed to moisture, resulting in rot, mold, mildew and other costly issues. Asphalt-saturated, synthetic and rubberized asphalt are the three main types of underlayment used in residential roofs.  

Ice and Water Barriers

You’ll locate ice and water barriers around the roof’s vulnerable areas, such as chimneys, valleys, eaves and other protrusions. Experts engineered them to withstand high winds, heavy rains and snow. Together with your roof’s ventilation system, they can help prevent leaks and ice dams. 

Starter Strip Shingles

The primary role of starter strip shingles is to minimize the possibility of blow-offs along the roof’s eaves and rakes. They help the roof shed water more efficiently by providing a base beneath the shingles at the eaves. Your contractor must install this component correctly to ensure it does its job properly. 

Hip and Ridge Shingles 

The ridge is the highest point on your roof where two planes intersect. On the other hand, hips refer to the junction of two planes that meet to create a sloping ridge running from the peak to the eave. Hip and ridge shingles can give your roof a sleeker and more finished look. 

Ventilation System

Both residential and commercial roofing systems need adequate ventilation to last long. When your attic doesn’t have enough ventilation, the area will become excessively hot and humid. It can speed up the deterioration of various roofing components, including shingles. Poor airflow can also cause moisture-related problems, such as rot, mold growth and electrical system issues. 

Meanwhile, adequate airflow can do more than prolong the life of your roof. It can make your living space easier to cool and heat, saving you on energy costs. You can also avoid ice dams in winter by maintaining moderate temperatures in your attic. You’ll know if you need to improve your roof and attic ventilation through a professional inspection. 

What Can You Do to Make Your Asphalt Shingle Roof Last Long?

Regardless of material, all roofs require routine inspections and maintenance to perform well and last long. You must work with reputable professionals for your roofing needs, from installation to upkeep. A reliable contractor knows the best way to maximize the service life of your roof. 

If your roof develops issues, you must address them immediately. It’s not a good idea to wait until water leaks inside your home before getting repairs. You’ll extend the lifespan of your roof and save more money by dealing with problems while they are small.