Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most widely used residential roofing material in North America, consisting of a fiberglass or organic mat base coated with asphalt and mineral granules. They offer an effective balance of performance, aesthetics, and affordability for sloped roofing applications.
Composition
Specialized material designed for weather protection and durability on building roofs
Properties
Weight
2.0-4.5 lbs/ft²
3-tab shingles typically weigh 2.0-2.3 lbs/ft², while architectural/dimensional shingles range from 3.0-4.5 lbs/ft². Impact-resistant and premium shingles may be heavier.
Thickness
3/16" to 5/16" (4.5-8mm)
3-tab shingles are thinner (approximately 3/16"), while architectural shingles are thicker (1/4" to 5/16") with multiple layers creating dimensional appearance.
Fire Rating
Class A, B, or C (ASTM E108)
Most fiberglass-based shingles achieve Class A fire rating (highest resistance). Organic-based shingles typically achieve Class C. Rating depends on entire roof assembly.
Wind Resistance
60-130 mph
Standard 3-tab shingles typically rated for 60-70 mph winds. Architectural shingles range from 80-120 mph. High-wind shingles with enhanced sealant strips can reach 130+ mph ratings.
Impact Resistance
Class 1-4 (UL 2218)
Standard shingles have no impact rating. Impact-resistant shingles are rated Class 1-4, with Class 4 offering the highest resistance to hail and impact damage.
Solar Reflectance Index (SRI)
Standard: 10-30, Cool Roof: 20-40
Standard dark shingles have low SRI values. 'Cool roof' shingles with reflective granules have higher SRI values, reducing heat absorption and energy costs.
Applications
Single-Family Residential
Primary application on homes with pitched roofs (4:12 slope or greater), suitable for various architectural styles from traditional to contemporary.
Multi-Family Residential
Commonly used on townhomes, condominiums, and apartment buildings with sloped roof designs, offering cost-effective solutions for larger roof areas.
Small Commercial Buildings
Applied to retail stores, offices, churches, and other small commercial structures with pitched roofs where aesthetics and budget considerations are important.
Accessory Structures
Used on garages, sheds, gazebos, and other secondary structures to match or complement the main building's roofing.
Renovation and Re-roofing
Frequently used in roof replacement projects, sometimes installed over existing shingles (where building codes permit) to reduce tear-off costs and waste.
Steep-Slope Portions of Mixed Roofs
Applied to the sloped sections of buildings that combine low-slope and steep-slope roof areas, coordinating with membrane or metal roofing on low-slope sections.
Advantages
- Cost-effective with lower initial installation cost than most alternatives
- Wide availability of materials and qualified installers
- Extensive color and style options to match various architectural designs
- Relatively simple installation requiring standard tools and methods
- Good fire resistance, particularly with fiberglass-based products
- Moderate wind resistance with proper installation
- Easy to repair or replace damaged sections
- Compatible with many roof penetrations and accessories
- Manufacturer warranties from 20-50 years depending on product line
Limitations
- Shorter lifespan (15-30 years) compared to many premium roofing materials
- Susceptible to damage from extreme weather events (high winds, hail)
- Performance degrades with age due to granule loss and material brittleness
- Limited sustainability profile due to petroleum content and disposal challenges
- Poor thermal performance without additional insulation
- Not suitable for low-slope applications (below 2:12 pitch without special underlayment)
- Standard colors absorb heat, potentially increasing cooling costs
- Prone to algae and moss growth in humid climates without special treatments
- Significant waste generation during replacement (approximately 11 million tons annually in US)
Sustainability Profile
Sustainable roofing options include recycled materials, cool roofs that reduce energy consumption, and living roofs that provide insulation and manage stormwater. Durability is a key factor in sustainability assessment.