Asphalt Shingles: Everything You Need to Know In 2024

Key Points You Will Learn About Asphalt Shingles

• Understanding the Types of Asphalt Shingles: Explore the differences between 3-tab, architectural, and designer shingles, including their pros and cons, to help you make an informed decision for your roofing needs.
• Amstill Roofing’s Commitment to Quality: Learn why we choose to install only architectural and designer shingles and the reasons we avoid installing 3-tab shingles, though we do offer 3-tab roof repairs.
• Insights into Leading Shingle Manufacturers: Get detailed information on top asphalt shingle brands like GAF, Owens Corning, Malarkey, CertainTeed, and Atlas, and what sets them apart in terms of quality and innovation.
• Certification and Warranties: Understand the importance of certifications, such as Owens Corning’s Platinum Preferred Contractors and GAF’s Master Elite® status, and how they ensure quality installations and extended warranties.
• Comprehensive Guide to Roof Installation, Repairs, and Replacements: Gain knowledge about the best practices for roof installation and maintenance and when to consider roof replacements for optimal home protection.
• Environmental Considerations and Aesthetic Choices: Discover the benefits of environmentally friendly shingles and the various aesthetic options available to enhance your home’s curb appeal.

Understanding Asphalt Shingles

Overview of Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most widely used roofing material in North America. They are known for their affordability, ease of installation, and versatility. They are constructed with a fiberglass base coated with asphalt and topped with mineral granules for protection and color.

Types of Asphalt Shingles

3-Tab Shingles

Overview

3-tab shingles are the most basic type of asphalt shingles, characterized by their flat, uniform design. They are named for the cutouts or tabs along the lower edge, which give the appearance of three separate pieces.

3 Tab Asphalt Shingle Pros

• Cost-Effective: The least expensive option, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious homeowners.
• Simplicity: Lightweight and easy to install.
• Basic Versatility: It is available in a range of colors, though the variety is more limited compared to other types.

3 Tab Asphalt Shingle Cons

• Shorter Lifespan: Typically lasts 15-20 years, shorter than other asphalt shingles.
• Lower Durability: More susceptible to wind and hail damage, leading to frequent maintenance and repairs.
• Limited Aesthetic Appeal: Offer a flatter, less dimensional appearance, which may not enhance a home’s curb appeal as much as other options.

Amstill Roofing’s Approach

At Amstill Roofing, we prioritize quality and durability. While we do not install 3-tab shingles, we offer expert 3-tab roof repairs near you to maintain and extend the life of existing roofs. We believe that the cons of 3-tab shingles outweigh the pros, as they often require more frequent repairs and replacements. Given their shorter lifespan, susceptibility to weather damage, and limited aesthetic appeal, we do not consider 3-tab shingles to be a reliable choice for long-term roofing solutions. We would never install 3-tab shingles on our homes or those of our clients, as they typically cause more problems than they solve.

Architectural Shingles

Overview

Architectural shingles, also known as dimensional or laminate shingles, consist of multiple layers of asphalt, providing a thicker and more textured appearance. They are designed to mimic the look of natural materials such as wood or slate.

Architectural Shingles Pros

• Enhanced Durability: Typically lasts 25-30 years or more, depending on maintenance and climate.
• Aesthetic Variety: Available in a wide range of colors and styles, offering a more visually appealing and dimensional look.
• Better Weather Resistance: More resistant to wind and impact damage, with many products rated for high wind speeds.

Architectural Shingles Cons

• Higher Cost: More expensive than 3-tab shingles, though they offer better value over time.
• Heavier Weight: A stronger roof structure is required, which may necessitate additional support.

Popular Architectural Shingle Brands

• Owens Corning: Known for the TruDefinition Duration series, offering vibrant colors and superior wind resistance.
• GAF: Offers the Timberline HDZ series, which is praised for its affordability and variety.
• CertainTeed: The Landmark series is known for its durability and aesthetic appeal.
• Malarkey: The Legacy series stands out for its polymer-modified asphalt, providing flexibility and impact resistance.

Designer Shingles

Overview

Designer shingles represent the top tier of asphalt shingles, offering unique designs and the highest quality materials. They are crafted to replicate high-end roofing materials like slate, wood shakes, or tile, providing a distinctive and upscale appearance.

Designer Shingles Pros

• Exceptional Aesthetic Appeal: A wide range of unique styles and colors, providing a luxurious look.
• Superior Durability: Offer the best resistance to weather elements, including wind, hail, and UV rays.
• Comprehensive Warranties: Often come with lifetime warranties and extended coverage, providing peace of mind.

Designer Shingles Cons

• Premium Cost: The most expensive type of asphalt shingles, reflecting their high quality and design.
• Complex Installation: Requires skilled professionals to ensure proper installation and performance.

Leading Designer Shingle Brands

• GAF: Offers luxurious options like the Camelot and Grand Sequoia series.
• CertainTeed: Known for high-end lines such as Grand Manor and Carriage House.
• Malarkey: The Windsor series features advanced material technology and a distinctive look.

Key Considerations When Choosing Shingles

Weather Resistance and Durability

The durability and weather resistance of shingles are critical factors in selecting the right roofing material. Impact-resistant shingles are essential in areas prone to hail, while wind-resistant shingles are crucial in regions with frequent high winds. Brands like Owens Corning and CertainTeed offer enhanced wind warranties with proper installation techniques.

Aesthetic Preferences

Your home’s architectural style and personal taste will influence your choice of shingles. Designer shingles offer the most variety, allowing for a customized look. Architectural shingles also provide a broad range of options, while 3-tab shingles are more basic in appearance.

Budget and Longevity

While 3-tab shingles are the most affordable upfront, architectural and designer shingles offer better long-term value due to their durability and aesthetic appeal. It’s essential to consider not just the initial cost but also the potential savings in maintenance and longevity.

Environmental Considerations

Brands like Malarkey are known for environmentally friendly materials and manufacturing processes. Shingles with Cool Roof Rating Council (CRRC) certification, such as certain Malarkey Legacy shingles, offer energy efficiency benefits by reflecting more sunlight and absorbing less heat.

Roofing Brands and Their Shingles

Owens Corning

Owens Corning is a well-respected brand, known for its TruDefinition® color platform, which offers vibrant and durable shingle colors. Popular lines include Duration, which provides excellent wind resistance, and Supreme, a reliable 3-tab option. Owens Corning also offers StreakGuard protection for algae resistance and Energy Star-rated shingles for energy efficiency.

GAF

GAF is the largest roofing manufacturer in North America, offering a wide range of shingles from 3-tab to designer. The Timberline® series is the best-selling line, offering a balance of quality and affordability. GAF also provides impact-resistant and solar-reflective shingles.

CertainTeed

CertainTeed is known for its premium shingles and extensive warranty coverage. The Landmark series offers options for every budget, while Grand Manor and Carriage House provide a high-end look. CertainTeed’s StreakFighter® technology protects against algae growth, and ClimateFlex® shingles offer enhanced flexibility in cold weather.

Malarkey

Malarkey stands out for its environmentally friendly roofing solutions. The Legacy series uses polymer-modified asphalt for superior durability and flexibility. Malarkey’s shingles are known for their Scotchgard™ protection against algae and NEX® technology for enhanced impact resistance.

Atlas

Atlas offers a range of shingles, including the StormMaster series for impact resistance and the Pinnacle Pristine series with Scotchgard™ protection. Atlas shingles are known for their unique colors and designs, providing a distinctive look.

Certification and Warranties

Certification Programs

To ensure high-quality installations and customer satisfaction, leading shingle manufacturers offer certification programs for roofing contractors. These certifications signify that contractors have undergone rigorous training and meet stringent standards for installation quality and professionalism. Some of the most recognized certification programs include:

• Owens Corning’s Platinum Preferred Contractor: This top-tier certification requires contractors to meet high standards in professionalism, reliability, and craftsmanship. Platinum Preferred Contractors can offer exclusive warranties and have access to specialized training and resources from Owens Corning.
• GAF’s Master Elite®: Less than 2% of roofing contractors qualify as Master Elite® contractors, making this certification highly prestigious. Master Elite® contractors are licensed and insured, have a proven reputation, and are committed to ongoing professional training. They can offer GAF’s strongest warranties, including the Golden Pledge® Warranty, which covers both materials and workmanship.
• CertainTeed’s Select ShingleMaster™: This certification represents the highest standard of excellence, quality, and knowledge in the shingle roofing industry. Select ShingleMasters™ can offer CertainTeed’s SureStart™ PLUS extended warranty, which provides longer coverage and additional protection.
• Malarkey’s Certified Residential Contractor: This certification ensures that contractors are knowledgeable about Malarkey’s product line and installation best practices. Certified contractors can offer enhanced warranty options that are not available through non-certified installers.

Warranty Options

Warranties are a critical consideration when choosing roofing shingles, as they provide protection against defects and failures. The types of warranties available can vary based on the shingle manufacturer, the specific product, and the contractor’s certification level. Key warranty options include:

• Limited Lifetime Warranty: Most premium shingles come with a limited lifetime warranty, typically covering manufacturing defects for as long as you own your home. However, it’s important to note that this warranty may be prorated after a certain period, reducing the amount of coverage.
• Non-Prorated Period: Many warranties include an initial non-prorated period, during which the manufacturer covers 100% of the replacement cost for defective shingles, including labor. This period can range from 5 to 15 years, depending on the manufacturer and product.
• Extended Warranties: Certified contractors often offer extended warranties, such as Owens Corning’s System Protection or GAF’s Golden Pledge® Warranty. These warranties may cover both materials and workmanship, offering comprehensive protection and peace of mind.
• Specialized Warranties: Certain shingle lines offer additional protections, such as wind, algae, and impact resistance warranties. For instance, Malarkey’s shingles with Scotchgard™ protection offer a lifetime algae resistance warranty, while their impact-resistant shingles come with Class 4 impact resistance ratings, the highest available.

Understanding the nuances of shingle warranties and choosing a certified contractor can significantly impact the performance and longevity of your roofing system. At Amstill Roofing, we ensure that our customers receive the best possible coverage and protection tailored to their specific needs and preferences.

Call Amstill Roofing Near You

Ready to upgrade your roof with durable and aesthetically pleasing asphalt shingles? Whether you’re interested in architectural or designer shingles, Amstill Roofing has the expertise and quality products to meet your needs. Contact us today for a free roof inspection and consultation. Let our team of certified professionals guide you through the best options for your home, ensuring a long-lasting and beautiful roofing solution.

For our Houston location, call us at +1 (281) 612-8747 or visit Amstill Roofing Houston. We are located at 14125 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77079.

For our Round Rock location, call us at +1 (512) 729-1223 or visit Amstill Roofing Round Rock. Our office is located at 2100 Double Creek Dr #335, Round Rock, TX 78664.

Trust Amstill Roofing for all your roofing needs, and experience the difference that quality and expertise can make!