Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles history goes back five thousand years ago to when they discovered asphalt. Asphalt is a petroleum byproduct which occurs naturally, is abundant and useful. For centuries, the building industry used asphalt as an adhesive agent and for its outstanding waterproofing qualities. For the last one hundred and fifty years in North America, asphalt roofing shingles have become the most popular of all roofing materials and found on approximately seventy-five percent of the homes. The reason asphalt shingles are the most widely used roof shingles on homes today is because they are easy to install, durable, and asphalt shingles prices are relatively inexpensive. Of course, when pricing asphalt shingles, the cost will depend upon the type and design of the shingles. Asphalt tiles are available in a wide range of designs and colors of asphalt. High up, shingles withstand wind and other elements. Some asphalt tiles have warranties from twenty to forty years. They make asphalt Florida roof shingles and Elk asphalt shingles to last and stand up to the elements.

The two basic asphalt shingle types are fiberglass mat based shingles and organic mat based shingles. There are also 3 tab asphalt shingles and asphalt clad copper shingles. They use asphalt to make these shingles but the fiberglass shingles and organic mat shingles composition are very different. The reinforcing mat on organic shingles is made of wood while the reinforcing mat on fiberglass shingles is made of fiberglass. Organic mat based shingles hold up better in colder weather so this variety is used more in Canada and the colder states while they use the fiberglass shingles more often in the warmer states.

When installing a roof made of asphalt, cutting shingles takes a sharp utility knife, carpenters square and a flat surface. Always cut the asphalt roof shingles on a flat surface, face down. Simply score the shingle back on the cut line using the carpenters square and utility knife. After scoring the asphalt tile, bend it and the shingle will break on the scored line.

Installing asphalt shingles is not a terribly difficult job for a do-it-yourself handyperson, but if you are not sure and need to get information on how to install asphalt shingles, talk to a professional, as improper installation often leads to interior damage of the home, water damage and high repair costs. In addition, working on your roof requires that safety is the main issue, when installing asphalt shingles.