What Are Architectural Shingles and Why Should You Use Them?

 

Aurora roofing

The idea of using layered materials to produce a unique appearance and a specific practical effect when it comes to the construction of roof shingles is definitely not new. Architectural shingles have been used for this purpose on a popular basis since the 1980s, and these days they have become extremely popular. You can get them in a variety of colors and textures, but their most distinguished look has to do with imitating various high profile, expensive materials such as slate and cedar shakes.

What Goes Into Making Architectural Shingles?

So, what are architectural shingles? To put it simply, they are specially crafted shingles that are made using two or more layers of various materials covered in water-resistant asphalt. Preferred Aurora roofing contractors tell us that the most common choice is to use a fiberglass base that serves as a heat-resistant, lightweight foundation for a heavier ceramic base and the asphalt that keeps everything together.

These types of shingles are also known as laminated shingles, and they are very well-known for their exceptionally appealing look. Homeowners tend to get them because they are thick, they can create an appealing 3D effect through deeper, high contrast textures, and they can also be customized to use layers of a variety of other materials that are more durable, such as synthetic slate.

Why Architectural Shingles Are So Popular

It’s no secret that architectural shingles are extremely well-known these days and many homeowners love them because of their good price and remarkable appearance. But before you get them, it is essential that you weigh in all the pros and cons and find out exactly what would make them an inspired choice in your own particular case.

So let’s take a closer look at the top reasons why these types of shingles are so well-known and commonly chosen by homeowners today:

  1. They can imitate a variety of materials, out of which slate roofing and wood shakes are only two of the most popular.
  2. Architectural shingles are designed to be far more durable and resilient than regular asphalt. The ceramic layer and the fiberglass base is not only light but also very resilient, and it can prevent damage in situations where other types of roofing materials would decay or crack under pressure quite easily.
  3. When supported by layers of other materials, asphalt is actually quite resilient. It’s fireproof, and the type of asphalt used in producing laminated shingles is also waterproof. All you need is a good material choice for the flashing, and your roof can withstand the test of time for decades to come.
  4. Finally, it’s important to mention the most sought after quality of architectural shingles: their remarkably lavish and impressive appearance. Aside from being able to mimic a lot of high profile roofing materials at a lower cost, architectural shingles look extremely good and they offer a variety of inspired color choices for you to choose from.

If you want the best of both worlds – a durable roofing material and a stylish yet affordable choice for your shingles – then architectural shingles are definitely a force to be reckoned with. Consider them as a great choice for just about any type of roof you want, from cool roofs used in warm areas, to dependable roofing systems that work well together with a heavier layer of attic insulation in cool, Northern regions.