Need a New Roof? Clearing Up 7 Misconceptions About Asphalt Shingles

Sep 01, 2023

If your home needs a new roof, consider asphalt shingles. Asphalt shingles are among the most popular roofing materials in use today. However, some misconceptions about asphalt shingles exist. These misconceptions can stop homeowners from enjoying the benefits asphalt shingles have to offer.

Are you concerned about what you have heard about asphalt shingles? If so, read the list below. Learn about seven misconceptions about asphalt roofing shingles that need to be put to rest.

1. They Are Not Good on Deep Slopes

If you need a new roof for your home, you might be worried about the slope. If that is the case, talk to your roofing contractor about asphalt shingles. Asphalt shingles can be installed on any type of roof slope. That includes deep-slope designs. If you have a deep slope on your roof, a roofer can use special hardware to install your asphalt shingles.

2. They Are Made With Harmful Materials

If you are worried about your health and safety, asphalt shingles are a good option for your new roof. You might be worried that asphalt shingles contain asbestos. That is not the case though. Before 1989, some asphalt shingles did contain asbestos. But, asphalt shingles no longer contain that harmful material. Asphalt shingles are safe for use on residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.

3. They Are Not Fire-Resistant

If you live in a fire-prone region, you need a roofing material that provides fire protection. Many asphalt shingle roofs have a Class A rating for fire resistance. And, you can increase the resistance by including a fire-resistant underlayment. Your roofing specialist can add that when they install your asphalt shingle roof. That means your home will have the protection it needs during fire season.

4. They are Not Very Durable

If you are in the market for a new roof, you want a material that can withstand pressure. Durability is especially important where wind, rain, and snow are concerned. If you have decided against asphalt shingles, rethink that decision. Asphalt shingles are among the most durable roofing materials you can get for your home. Asphalt shingles are designed to withstand high winds, torrential rains, and heavy snow packs. Asphalt shingles can also withstand foot traffic. That means you can still put up your holiday decorations each year.

5. They Are Not Energy-Efficient

If you want to save money on your energy bills, do not take asphalt shingles off your list of roofing materials. Asphalt shingles can increase your home's energy efficiency. Asphalt shingles come with a protective coating that prevents heat absorption. Reduced heat absorption means your home will stay cooler during the summer. And, you will not need to overwork your air conditioner.

6. They Are Not Long-Lasting

If you are worried about longevity, talk to your roofing contractor about asphalt shingles. Asphalt shingles can last up to 30 years. That means you may never need to replace your roof again when you choose asphalt shingles for your home. And, when you install an asphalt shingle roof, you will also get warranty protection. With warranty protection, any damage and defects will be covered.

7. They Are Not Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendliness is an important consideration when choosing a roofing material. If you have not added asphalt shingles to your list of material options, you should. Old asphalt shingles can be recycled into new products. That means they will not end up in local landfills or waterways. This makes asphalt shingles an eco-friendly material for your new roof.

If you have any questions about asphalt shingles, call us today. We can go over anything you might want to know.

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Does a metal roof offer fire protection?

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Metal roofs can offer some degree of fire protection due to their inherent characteristics, but it's important to understand their limitations and how they contribute to fire safety. Advantages of Metal Roofs for Fire Protection: 1. Non-Combustible Material: Metal is non-combustible, meaning it doesn't catch fire or contribute to the spread of flames. This is in contrast to materials like wood shingles or asphalt shingles, which can ignite and fuel a fire. 2. Embers and Sparks: Metal roofs can be more resistant to ignition by embers and sparks that might be carried by wind during a wildfire. This is especially beneficial in areas prone to wildfires. 3. Heat Reflectivity: Metal roofs tend to reflect more heat away from the building, reducing the risk of heat-related ignition. 4. Low Flame Spread: In case a fire does start within the building, a metal roof can help limit the spread of flames due to its non-combustible nature. 5. Longevity: Metal roofs have a longer lifespan compared to many other roofing materials. This means they are less likely to deteriorate over time and become vulnerable to fire. Limitations of Metal Roofs for Fire Protection: 1. Structural Vulnerability: While the metal itself doesn't burn, the underlying structure and materials (such as wooden framing) can still be susceptible to fire. A fire that starts within the building can compromise the structural integrity of the roof. 2. Thermal Conductivity: Metal is an excellent conductor of heat, and in a fire, it can quickly become extremely hot. This heat can be conducted to the interior of the building, potentially leading to the ignition of combustible materials inside. 3. Debris Accumulation: Debris like leaves, pine needles, and dust can accumulate on a metal roof. In a wildfire, these debris can ignite, potentially compromising the fire resistance of the roof. 4. Coating and Paint: Some metal roofs have coatings or paint that can burn or peel off in high temperatures, potentially exposing the underlying metal to heat and flames. 5. Installation Quality: The fire-resistant properties of a metal roof can also depend on proper installation and maintenance. Gaps, poor seals, or other installation issues can compromise the roof's effectiveness in preventing fire spread. It's important to note that no roofing material is completely fireproof. While metal roofs can provide better fire protection compared to some other materials, fire safety involves a combination of factors including the building's construction, maintenance, landscaping, and local fire codes and regulations. If fire protection is a primary concern, you should also consider other fire-resistant measures such as using fire-rated materials, creating defensible zones around the building, and following recommended fire-safe practices.