Selecting roofing shingles is a crucial part of building a home. Construction, technology, and installation make a difference in the effectiveness of shingles in protecting your property. Here’s what you should know about asphalt roofing materials and how they work.
What Are the Different Elements of Asphalt Shingles?
An asphalt shingle is composed of several elements, starting with its backbone, the fiberglass mat. This high-strength material reinforces the shingle, giving it durability and flexibility. The asphalt material placed on top of the mat enables it to shed water and keep the granules in place. Manufacturers add mineral stabilizers or fillers to boost the material's fire and weather resistance.
The shingle is coated with granules, ceramic-coated particles of crushed rock that add color and guard against damage from the sun's UV rays. The back of the fiberglass mat is covered with a fine mineral surface, which keeps it from sticking to machinery during manufacturing and to each other when stored.
How Do the Shingles Protect Roofs?
An effective system of asphalt roofing shingles includes several protective components. A gutter and drainage system directs water from the roof to the ground. Hip and ridge shingles frame the outer edge of the roof.
Underlayment provides a flat covering to help guard against water leakage into the home. The layer forms the basis for applying the roof shingles, which provide the main exterior protection against the sun, wind, and rain.
What Are the Basics of an Installation?
Asphalt shingle installation starts at the roof's eaves. The pieces are placed in rows, called courses, so the seams and nails overlap each other on the row below. To boost strength and resistance to wind, installers add a heat-activated sealant that sticks to the underside of each row. Other elements that must be installed are attic insulation, roof decking, a ventilation system, and barriers against ice and water.
If you need roofing shingles, turn to the professionals at Fresh Home Roofing in Pembroke, FL. This team of licensed and insured contractors serves clients throughout the state, including Broward, Palm Beach, Miami-Dade, and Pinellas County. Their range of residential roofing services ensures your home is maintained in excellent condition. To learn more about how they can help, visit the website or call (866) 373-7410 to speak with a representative.
Comentários