Components of Your Home’s Asphalt Shingle Roofing System
How does your asphalt shingle roof work? What are they made from, and how are they put together to provide safe and efficient protection from the elements? Elite Remodeling Services in Minnesota is an expert roofing company that frequently works with asphalt roofs. Let’s look at this popular roofing system used on many homes and apartments more in-depth.
Different kinds of asphalt shingles
Asphalt shingles are one of the top choices for roofing because they are cost-effective, durable, and can last up to 30 years. It’s easy to source them as well.
When choosing asphalt shingles, there are three different types to choose from:
- Single-layer — these are simple, straightforward, and the cheapest.
- Double-layer – a little more expensive, they last longer, and have a longer warranty.
- Premium shingles — the best design, longest warranty, and highest price.
Basically, the thicker the shingle, the more pressure it can take, and the more it will cost. Whichever one you choose, you can’t go wrong with asphalt shingles. It’s just a matter of your budget and how long you want your roof to last.
Waterproofing/underlayment
This is the layer between your roof and the shingles. Whatever water gets through in between the shingles is meant to be carried off by this layer to prevent the water from going into your ceiling.
Underlayment comes in various materials and thicknesses, and your roofing contractor will make an appropriate choice depending on the rest of the roof materials, the style of roof, the weather, and your budget.
It is important that this layer is installed properly to avoid ice build-up or rain getting in between and under the shingles from wind because this can cause damage and leaks. Additionally, if it is not installed properly, your warranty will not be valid.
Accessory shingles
These are also known as hip and ridge shingles. They are meant to help finish off the edges of a roof. The hip of a roof is the point where two sloping roofs meet, and the ridge of a roof refers to the topmost angles where the sloped edges meet.
These shingles are specifically made to finish off these edges, but some contractors may try to take shortcuts using standard shingles. Check that the correct ones are used so as not to void your warranty. If you can’t tell the difference, feel free to give us a call. We can take a look and let you know if the proper accessory shingles were used and inspect your roof as a whole in the process.
Starter shingles
This type of shingle is set intending to make installation of the first row of shingles on a roof a much faster and easier process, eliminating the need for cutting standard single to fit. They are well worth buying and are manufacturer-specific, made to match the appearance of the rest of your roof.
If you would like a quote or inspection of your asphalt roofing system, contact Elite Remodeling Services today at (952) 646-2480. We’ll be happy to help.
