Asphalt roofing has been around since it was fist invented in the USA, back in 1901. It is probably the most common type of roofing used in the North American continent. This is because not only is it cheap but also easy to install, while providing excellent all around water proofing abilities.
Broadly defined there are two different types of asphalt shingles:
Organic
Organic asphalt shingles are constructed out of a very thick kind of special paper that has been covered with a coating of asphalt so that it becomes waterproof. As long as the coating is intact the water does not seep into the living space beneath the asphalt roof.
Fiberglass asphalt shingles
The main advantage of fiberglass asphalt shingles is that they offer far better overall fire protection then their organic counterparts whose paper construction is not conducive to fire retardation. Just like their organic counterparts, fiberglass shingles are not waterproof on their own, till they are coated with a resinous substance that ensures water does not get through the shingles.
Asphalt shingles have a lot going for them and indeed offer many advantages over other types of roofing such as:
Greater sound insulation
Provided the asphalt roofing company has done its job properly and the roofing is uniform thought the structure, it would offer excellent noise reduction as opposed to many other types of roofing structures.
The composition of asphalt roofing shingles in a complete roofing system offers markedly greater sound protection from external noise and effectively dampens the same.
Installation
If the asphalt shingle contractor you choose for the job knows his work well, then not only would he be able to install them easily and safely, but will also make sure that they will be able to give first-rate results in both insulation and water proofing capabilities for years to come.
Versatility
Asphalt shingles have the ability of being customized to just about every conceivable angle, form and shape that you may desire and provided the asphalt roof installation company knows what its doing you can easily have your own customized roof.
Design variety
There is a veritable kaleidoscope of richly diverse designs available when it comes to asphalt roofing
Colors and shades
Asphalt shingle contractors can easily produce absolutely stunning palates of vivid colors that will not lose their hues even after constant exposure to the elements for years on end.
Curb Appeal
Asphalt roofing, due to its rich coloring and customized appearance, significantly increased the ‘curb appeal’ of your property.
Life span
The newer generation of asphalt shingles can last for a very very long time indeed since they have been created with cutting edge technology that enhances their durability.
Fire protection
In case of a fire, your roof may be a means of egress. Thanks to the inherent fire retardant properties of non flammable material such as fiberglass asphalt shingles, your roof might not just save your property from being burnt but may well help your family escape grievous injuries.