The next time you walk outside, take a moment to gaze up at your roof. What do you see? Do you see even shingles that are all laying flat? Or do you see shingles that are starting to curl and that are covered in moss? You can tell a lot about the condition of your roof just by looking at it. If you are at all concerned about the state of your roof, then your first call should be to a roofing contractor. They can evaluate the situation and recommend repairs or replacement as needed. Learn more about roofing and roofing contractors here on this website.
Lori Silva
Three-tab shingles used to be the go-to materials for residential roofing. They were affordable, easy to install, and had a decent lifespan. However, as the market grew to include newer roofing materials, three-tab shingles were replaced. One of the most popular replacements for three-tab shingles is luxury shingle roofing. Luxury shingles comprise a blend of asphalt and other materials that make the shingles heavier than traditional ones. Below are three benefits of replacing your three-tab shingles with luxury asphalt shingles.
Superior Performance in Inclement Weather
Three-tab shingles are made with asphalt and a fiberglass base mat coated with mineral granules. These shingles feature only one layer of material; therefore, they are prone to damage when exposed to inclement weather. Three-tab asphalt shingles can crack when hit by hailstones or falling debris. The shingles are prone to heat damage and can melt when exposed to severe solar heat.
Luxury shingles comprise three layers of material; thus, they are heavier than conventional shingles. The multiple layers of material allow the shingles to resist damage from hail, debris, and heavy rainfall. Luxury shingles also feature cool coatings that reflect sunlight, prevent solar heat gain, and protect the underlying materials from premature wear and tear.
Low Risk of Roof Leaks
The leading causes of leaks on three-tab shingle roofs are impact damage, heat, and strong winds. When hailstones hit your roof, they cause the shingles to crack and leak. Similarly, heat damage can deteriorate roofing materials, causing moisture to infiltrate the deck. Strong winds can dislodge and tear off lightweight shingles, leaving the roof vulnerable to leaks.
If you live in an area prone to severe solar heat, strong winds, or hailstorms, opt for luxury asphalt shingles. The multiple layers of material allow them to resist damage from hail and heat. Since the shingles are heavy, they are less likely to get torn off by strong winds. Therefore, the shingles maintain their weather tightness during inclement weather and protect the roof deck from moisture damage.
High Aesthetic Value
Luxury shingles are the highest quality of all laminated asphalt shingles. They feature a multidimensional style that creates shadow lines and adds depth to the shingles. The multi-layer design gives the roof a deluxe appearance from the ground level. Unlike three-tab shingles that have a repeating rectangular shape, luxury asphalt shingles are available in many shapes and styles. These unique designs allow a structure to stand out from other asphalt roofs in the neighborhood.
If you are looking for new roofing materials for your old three-tab shingle roof, luxury asphalt shingles are your best bet. However, you must install the new roof correctly to maximize its performance and lifespan. Contact a professional roofer to learn more about installation services.