Asphalt Shingles are a versatileand durable roofing solution that offer a wide range of benefits for homeowners and contractors alike, writes DharmendraDhari.
“These granulesprovide additional protection against UV radiation, moisture, and impact damagewhile giving the shingles their characteristic colour and texture.”
- Dharmendra Dhari,
Skipper,
Blooms India.
Asphalt shingles are amongthe most popular roofing materials used in residential and commercial constructionprojects. Renowned for their versatility, durability, and cost-effectiveness,asphalt shingles offer a wide range of benefits that make them an attractivechoice for home owners and contractors alike.
Composition and Construction
Asphalt shingles arecomposed of several layers designed to provide protection against the elementswhile enhancing durability and performance. The core of asphalt shingles typicallyconsists of a fibreglass mat or organic felt saturated with asphalt. Thisasphalt-saturated mat serves as the foundation for the shingle, providingstrength and stability.
On top of the fibreglassmat, asphalt shingles are coated with a layer of asphalt and embedded withceramic-coated mineral granules. These granules provide additional protectionagainst UV radiation, moisture, and impact damage while giving the shinglestheir characteristic colour and texture.
Asphalt shingles areavailable in various styles, including three-tab shingles, architecturalshingles (Laminated Shingles), and designer shingles (Fish scale, Mosaic). Three-tabshingles feature a traditional flat profile and uniform appearance, whilearchitectural and designer shingles offer enhanced dimensionality and aestheticappeal, resembling the look of wood shakes or slate tiles.
Benefits of Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles offernumerous benefits that contribute to their popularity as a roofing material:
Affordability: Asphalt shingles are one of the most cost-effective roofing optionsavailable, making them an attractive choice for budget-conscious homeowners andcontractors.
Durability: Asphalt shinglesare designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, including rain, wind, hail,and UV exposure. High-quality asphalt shingles can provide reliable protectionfor 20 to 30 years or more with proper maintenance.
Versatility: Asphalt shinglescome in a wide range of colours, styles, and textures, allowing homeowners tocustomize their roof to complement the architectural style of their home.
Ease of Installation: Asphalt shingles are lightweight and easy to install, reducing labourcosts and installation time compared to other roofing materials.
Fire Resistance: Fibreglass-based asphalt shingles offer excellent fire resistance,providing added peace of mind and safety for homeowners.
Sustainability and Environmental Impact: While asphalt shingles are primarily made frompetroleum-based materials, efforts have been made to improve theirsustainability and reduce their environmental impact. BLOOMEX asphalt shingle,for instance, offer recycled-content shingles made from reclaimed asphalt,post-consumer recycled materials, diverting materials from landfills, andconserving natural resources.
Furthermore, asphaltshingles are recyclable at the end of their lifespan, with used shingles beingrepurposed for road construction, aggregate material, and other applications. BLOOMEXoffers cool roofing shingles with reflective coatings that reduce heatabsorption and energy consumption.