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8 Min Read
05/31/24
Composition shingles stand out as a popular choice for homeowners due to their affordability, versatility, and durability. Whether you’re building a new home or replacing an old roof, understanding the ins and outs of composition shingles can help you make an informed decision. This guide will talk about the various aspects of composition shingles, including their types, benefits, installation process, maintenance, and more, including:
- What are composition shingles?
- 6 benefits of composition shingles
- Choosing the right composition shingles
- 6 step installation process
- Maintenance tips
- Cost of composition shingles
- Environmental impact
- Innovations in composition shingles
- Common myths about composition shingles
🤔 What Are Composition Shingles?
Composition shingles, often referred to as asphalt shingles, are a type of roofing material made from a mixture of asphalt, fiberglass, and mineral granules. They are called “composition” because they are composed of multiple materials. These shingles are designed to provide a reliable and aesthetically pleasing roofing solution that is also cost-effective.
Types of Composition Shingles
Composition shingles come in several varieties, each with its own characteristics and advantages:
- 3-Tab Shingles:
- Description: These are the most basic and economical type of composition shingles. They are named for the cutouts or tabs that make them appear as three separate pieces.
- Lifespan: Typically lasts 20-30 years.
- Cost: The most affordable option.
- Architectural (Dimensional) Shingles:
- Description: These shingles have a more complex, layered appearance that mimics the look of wood or slate.
- Lifespan: Generally lasts 30-50 years.
- Cost: More expensive than 3-tab shingles but offers better durability and aesthetic appeal.
- Luxury (Designer) Shingles:
- Description: High-end shingles designed to replicate the appearance of natural materials like slate or cedar shakes.
- Lifespan: Can last up to 50 years or more.
- Cost: The most expensive type, offering premium aesthetics and durability.
✅ 6 Benefits of Composition Shingles
Composition shingles offer numerous benefits that make them a preferred choice for many homeowners and builders:
1. Affordability
Compared to other roofing materials like slate, metal, or tile, composition shingles are significantly more affordable, making them accessible for a wide range of budgets.
2. Versatility
Available in various styles, colors, and textures, composition shingles can complement almost any architectural style.
3. Durability
Modern composition shingles are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, including wind, rain, and hail. They also have fire-resistant properties.
4. Ease of Installation
Composition shingles are relatively easy to install, which can reduce labor costs and time.
5. Low Maintenance
Once installed, composition shingles require minimal maintenance compared to other roofing materials.
6. Energy Efficiency
Many composition shingles are designed with reflective properties to help reduce heat absorption, contributing to lower energy bills.
👉 Choosing the Right Composition Shingles
Selecting the right composition shingles for your home involves considering several factors:
Climate
Your local climate plays a significant role in determining the best type of shingles for your roof. For instance, if you live in an area prone to high winds or hurricanes, you should opt for shingles with higher wind resistance. Similarly, if your region experiences extreme temperatures, look for shingles with excellent thermal performance.
Budget
While it’s important to stick to your budget, it’s also crucial to consider the long-term costs. Higher-quality shingles may have a higher upfront cost but can save you money in the long run due to their durability and lower maintenance requirements.
Aesthetic Preferences
Consider the architectural style of your home when choosing the color and texture of your shingles. Composition shingles come in a wide range of colors and designs, allowing you to match or complement your home’s exterior.
Warranty
Different manufacturers offer varying warranty periods. Look for shingles with a comprehensive warranty that covers defects and other potential issues.
🛠️ 6 Step Installation Process
Proper installation is key to maximizing the lifespan and performance of your composition shingles. While it’s always recommended to hire a professional roofing contractor, understanding the basic installation steps can be helpful:
1. Prepare the Roof
- Remove Old Shingles: If replacing an existing roof, start by removing the old shingles and inspecting the underlying roof deck for damage.
- Repair Decking: Replace any damaged or rotten sections of the roof deck to ensure a solid foundation for the new shingles.
2. Install Underlayment
- Lay Down Underlayment: Apply a waterproof underlayment (such as roofing felt or synthetic underlayment) to provide an additional layer of protection against moisture.
3. Install Starter Shingles
- Start at the Eaves: Place starter shingles along the eaves to create a solid base for the first row of shingles and to prevent water infiltration.
4. Lay the Shingles
- Begin at the Bottom: Start laying the shingles from the bottom edge of the roof, working your way up. Overlap each row according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Nail Properly: Use roofing nails to secure the shingles, ensuring they are placed in the designated nailing zones.
5. Install Ridge Caps
- Cap the Ridge: Install ridge cap shingles along the roof’s peak to provide a finished look and to help prevent water penetration.
6. Clean Up
- Inspect and Clean: Once all shingles are installed, inspect the roof for any issues and clean up any debris from the installation process.
💡 Maintenance Tips
To extend the life of your composition shingles and maintain their appearance, follow these maintenance tips:
- Regular Inspections: Conduct regular roof inspections, especially after severe weather, to identify and address any damage early.
- Clean Debris: Remove leaves, branches, and other debris from the roof and gutters to prevent water buildup and damage.
- Address Moss and Algae: Treat any moss or algae growth promptly to prevent it from damaging the shingles.
- Repair Damage: Fix any cracked, curled, or missing shingles as soon as possible to prevent further damage and potential leaks.
- Keep Trees Trimmed: Trim overhanging branches to prevent them from rubbing against the shingles and causing damage.
💵 Cost of Composition Shingles
The cost of composition shingles varies depending on the type, quality, and brand. Here’s a rough estimate:
- 3-Tab Shingles: $70 to $100 per square (100 square feet)
- Architectural Shingles: $100 to $150 per square
- Luxury Shingles: $150 to $300 per square
In addition to the cost of the shingles themselves, factor in the cost of underlayment, nails, and labor. Hiring a professional roofer can cost anywhere from $3 to $5 per square foot, depending on the complexity of the job and your location.
🌱 Environmental Impact
Composition shingles have both positive and negative environmental impacts:
Positive Impact
- Recyclability: Some composition shingles can be recycled at the end of their lifespan, reducing landfill waste.
- Energy Efficiency: Reflective shingles can help reduce energy consumption by lowering cooling costs.
Negative Impact
- Production Process: The manufacturing process of composition shingles involves the use of petroleum products, which can have environmental implications.
- Non-Biodegradable: Asphalt shingles are not biodegradable, which means they take up space in landfills if not recycled.
⚡️ Innovations in Composition Shingles
The roofing industry is constantly evolving, and composition shingles are no exception. Here are some recent innovations:
Cool roofing shingles are designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than standard shingles. This can help reduce cooling costs and improve indoor comfort.
Solar shingles combine the benefits of traditional roofing materials with solar energy production. They are designed to look like conventional shingles while generating electricity for your home.
Impact-Resistant Shingles
These shingles are engineered to withstand severe weather conditions, including hail and high winds. They are often made with reinforced materials to provide extra durability.
🫢 Common Myths About Composition Shingles
There are several misconceptions about composition shingles that can lead to confusion. Let’s debunk some of the common myths:
Myth 1: Composition Shingles Are Not Durable
Fact: Modern composition shingles are designed to be highly durable and can last for several decades with proper maintenance.
Myth 2: All Composition Shingles Look Alike
Fact: Composition shingles come in a wide variety of styles, colors, and textures, allowing homeowners to choose the perfect look for their home.
Myth 3: Composition Shingles Are Harmful to the Environment
Fact: While the production of composition shingles does involve the use of petroleum products, many manufacturers are making strides towards sustainability, including offering recyclable options.
Myth 4: Composition Shingles Are Difficult to Install
Fact: Composition shingles are relatively easy to install compared to other roofing materials, and many roofing contractors are well-versed in their installation.
🙌 Upgrade Your Roof with Boss Exteriors: Versatile, Durable, and Cost-Effective Solutions
Composition shingles offer a versatile, durable, and cost-effective roofing solution, and at Boss Exteriors, we specialize in delivering these benefits to homeowners. With a variety of styles and options at our disposal, we ensure that your roof not only complements your home design but also provides reliable protection against the elements.
Our team at Boss Exteriors understands the intricacies of the different types of composition shingles, their advantages, and the nuances of installation and maintenance processes. This expertise allows us to help you make an informed decision that aligns with your needs and budget.
Whether you’re replacing an old roof or constructing a new home, our skilled professionals are dedicated to providing an affordable, durable, and aesthetically pleasing roofing solution. With our proper installation and meticulous maintenance services, we guarantee a beautiful and long-lasting roof for your home.
In summary, Boss Exteriors is the team you trust for your roofing needs due to our commitment to balancing cost, performance, and visual appeal. Stay informed about the latest innovations with us and ensure your roof remains in top condition for many years to come.
Ready to upgrade your roof with the experts? Contact Boss Exteriors today for a consultation and let us help you achieve the perfect roofing solution!
