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If you are a homeowner evaluating new roofing options after the landfall of Hurricane Ian on September 28, you may be coming across information on how architectural shingles are a popular choice for replacing one’s roof. So, what are architectural shingles?
Let’s dive into the details and discover why architectural shingles can add curb appeal to any home’s appearance while protecting it from Mother Nature’s wrath.
Architectural Shingles Features
Architectural shingles are also known as dimensional or laminate shingles. They consist of a heavy fiberglass mat base laminated to multiple layers of water-resistant asphalt. Ceramic-coated mineral granules are ingrained in the top layers of the shingles to help protect the home or commercial building from wind and water infiltration. The mat base of an architectural shingle is made much denser than a traditional asphalt shingle. Unlike conventional three-tab asphalt shingles, architectural shingles are thicker, heavier and sturdier. When they are installed on a roof, they create a staggered, three-dimensional roofing pattern that can dramatically increase curb appeal.
Architectural shingles were introduced in the 1970s and 80s, emerging as a higher quality, sturdier option for asphalt roofing, typically with longer warranties. It allowed homeowners to add architectural interest and curb appeal, as well as imitate the higher-end look of natural cedar shakes or slate without the added weight, costs and maintenance needs. Because architectural shingles are more durable than conventional asphalt shingles, homeowners can expect long-term protection from rain, wind and other weather events, as well as less unsightly peeling and cracking over time.
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Advantages of Architectural Shingles
The first advantage is durability. When multiple layers of asphalt are laminated to a heavy fiberglass mat base, durability comes standard. These shingles can withstand wind gusts of up to 120 miles per hour. Conventional single-layer asphalt shingles can only withstand wind gusts of up 80 miles per hour.
Because architectural shingles perform better, they are the preferred roofing material for many roofing contractors. At Classic Roofing & Construction, we can provide homeowners and commercial building owners with the GAF Timberline HDZ. This is an architectural shingle that, when installed with the required GAF accessories, is eligible for the “WindProven Limited Wind Warranty,” with no maximum wind speed limitations. This building material can handle anything Mother Nature can throw at it.
What About Costs?
In terms of costs, architectural asphalt shingles offer a middle-of-the-road option. They are less expensive than slate or cedar shake, but they are more expensive than conventional three-tab asphalt shingles that have a single layer of asphalt-coated fiberglass.
Another thing that makes Timberline HDZ a better shingle to install is that it’s easy to nail. GAF Timberline HDZ shingles have 99.9 percent nailing accuracy rate. These shingles are also 30 percent faster to install than other shingles on the market. This can save homeowners on installation costs and labor.
What About Ratings?
GAF Timberline HDZ has the highest rating in fire protection: Class A. In terms of durability and toughness, the GAF Timberline HDZ is an advanced protection shingle with GAF Dura Grip Adhesive. This building material is also approved by the State of Florida and by Miami-Dade County Product Control Board.
What Are Architectural Shingles Best For?
Now that we have answered “What are architectural shingles?”, it’s time to consider if they are the right choice for your own home. Many factors go into choosing which shingle to use on your home, including your style. If your home is located within an HOA, or homeowners association, there may be material specifications outlined in its bylaws. Other considerations can include the type of warranty and how long you plan to stay in your home.
It may help to see whatkinds of roofing trends you see in your immediate neighborhood, as well as in other communities. You can also compare other roofing materials and whether they performed well in the wake of Hurricane Ian. This can help you envision what type of roofing you want on your home.
You can also try on new architectural shingles for your home virtually through the GAF visualizer tool. This takes the guesswork out of the roofing process and reveals what your home will look like with a new roof. You can choose a style similar to your home, or you can upload a photo of your home to compare roofing styles, colors and thicknesses.
When you think you have narrowed it down to a handful of styles you like, reach out to the team at Classic Roofing & Construction. Contact us by calling 727-329-8023 in Tampa and 239-932-5225 in Fort Myers, or click to schedule a free consultation.
