Asphalt Shingle Roofing: A Comprehensive Overview

Asphalt shingle roofing is an increasingly popular choice for commercial roofing applications. With its durability, affordability, and ease of installation, asphalt shingles offer a great solution for businesses looking to protect their buildings from the elements. This comprehensive overview will cover the different types of asphalt shingle roofing, the benefits and drawbacks, and the installation process. Whether you’re a business owner or a professional roofer, this guide will provide the information you need to make an informed decision about your commercial roofing project. When choosing a roofing material for your commercial property, it's important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each material.

Asphalt shingle roofing is a popular choice due to its affordability and durability. Asphalt shingles are made from a combination of petroleum-based asphalt and fiberglass or organic materials such as wood or paper. They are lightweight and easy to install, making them a great option for commercial applications. Additionally, asphalt shingles are available in a variety of colors, textures, and styles so you can find one to match the look of your building. When it comes to the advantages of asphalt shingle roofing, the most important is its durability.

Asphalt shingle roofing can last up to 30 years with proper maintenance. It is also resistant to fire, wind, and UV rays, making it a great choice for commercial buildings in areas with extreme weather conditions. Additionally, asphalt shingle roofing is relatively easy to install compared to other roofing materials such as metal or tile. There are two main types of asphalt shingle roofing: organic and fiberglass. Organic asphalt shingles are made from organic materials such as wood or paper and are the most commonly used type of asphalt shingle roofing.

They are more affordable than fiberglass asphalt shingles but do not last as long. Fiberglass asphalt shingles are made from a combination of fiberglass and asphalt and are more durable than organic asphalt shingles. They are also more expensive but can last up to 30 years with proper maintenance. The installation process for asphalt shingle roofing is relatively simple. First, the existing roof must be removed and any damaged areas should be replaced with new materials.

Then, an underlayment material such as felt paper or synthetic underlayment should be installed to provide additional protection against water damage. After that, the asphalt shingles can be installed in overlapping rows starting at the bottom edge of the roof and working up towards the peak. Finally, any necessary flashing should be installed around vents, chimneys, skylights, etc. to ensure that water does not penetrate these areas. When it comes to maintenance, it is important to inspect your asphalt shingle roof regularly for any signs of damage or wear.

If you notice any issues, they should be repaired immediately to avoid further damage. Additionally, it is important to keep your asphalt shingle roof clean by removing any debris or dirt that has accumulated on it. This will help ensure that your roof continues to provide long-term protection for your property.

Types of Asphalt Shingle Roofs

Asphalt shingle roofing is a popular and cost-effective roofing material for commercial applications. It is often made of either organic or fiberglass materials, each offering distinct advantages and disadvantages.

Organic Asphalt ShinglesOrganic asphalt shingles are the most common type of asphalt shingle roofing. They are made from a base of organic felt or recycled paper, which is then saturated with asphalt and covered with mineral granules. Organic asphalt shingles are typically less expensive than fiberglass shingles and provide good protection from the elements. However, organic asphalt shingles tend to be more susceptible to wind damage, algae growth, and fading over time.

Fiberglass Asphalt Shingles

Fiberglass asphalt shingles are made from a base of fiberglass matting instead of paper or felt.

The mat is then saturated with asphalt and mineral granules for protection. This type of shingle is more durable and resistant to wind damage, algae growth, and fading compared to organic shingles. However, fiberglass shingles tend to be more expensive than their organic counterparts.

Advantages of Asphalt Shingle Roofing

Asphalt shingle roofing is an ideal choice for commercial buildings due to its affordability and durability. It is resistant to fire, wind, and UV rays, making it a great option for areas with extreme weather conditions.

Additionally, asphalt shingles are relatively easy to install and maintain, making them an attractive choice for commercial roofs. The fire resistance of asphalt shingles makes them an ideal choice for properties located in areas prone to wildfires or other natural disasters. The shingles also offer excellent protection from wind and UV rays, making them suitable for many climates. Asphalt shingles are available in a variety of colors and styles to match the aesthetic of any commercial building.

Additionally, asphalt shingle roofing offers exceptional longevity. With proper maintenance and care, asphalt shingles can last up to 30 years, making them an economical choice for commercial roofs. Asphalt shingles also require minimal maintenance, making them a low-maintenance roofing material. Finally, asphalt shingle roofing is relatively easy to install and is often less expensive than other roofing materials.

Professional installation is recommended for larger roofs, but a homeowner can easily install asphalt shingles on smaller roofs.

Maintenance

It is important to inspect your asphalt shingle roof regularly for any signs of damage or wear. A thorough inspection should be conducted at least twice a year, preferably in the spring and fall, and any necessary repairs should be completed promptly. If you notice any missing or damaged shingles, it is important to replace them as soon as possible to prevent any further damage from occurring.

Another important part of maintaining an asphalt shingle roof is cleaning it regularly. This helps to remove any debris, dirt, or other contaminants that can accumulate on the roof and cause damage over time. You should also check for any moss or lichen growth, as this can cause the asphalt shingles to deteriorate and become brittle. If any moss or lichen growth is present, it is best to remove it with a soft brush and a mild detergent. Finally, it is important to keep an eye on the flashing around the edges of your roof, as well as the gutters and downspouts.

Any loose or damaged flashing should be repaired or replaced immediately in order to prevent water infiltration. Keeping your gutters and downspouts clean and clear of debris will also help to ensure that water is directed away from your roof, which can help to prolong its lifespan.

Installation Process

Asphalt shingle roofing is one of the most popular materials used for commercial roofing applications. The installation process is relatively straightforward and can be done quickly by a professional roofing contractor. The process involves laying down an asphalt-based adhesive on the substrate, followed by laying down the asphalt shingles in a staggered pattern. The shingles must be laid in a manner that will allow water to flow easily off the roof.

This is achieved by ensuring that the rows of shingles overlap each other and have a minimum 1/4-inch gap between them. Additionally, the rows of shingles should be positioned so that the top edge of each row aligns with the bottom edge of the row above it. This allows water to drain from one shingle to the next. Once all of the shingles are laid, a sealant should be applied to all of the edges and seams to ensure water does not seep into these areas. After the sealant has been applied, flashing can be placed at all areas where two different materials meet, such as around vents and chimneys.

Finally, the asphalt shingles can be inspected for any signs of damage or wear before they are covered with a protective coating. The installation process for asphalt shingle roofing is relatively simple and can be done quickly by a professional roofing contractor. Proper installation is essential for ensuring long-term protection and longevity of your commercial roof. Asphalt shingle roofing is an ideal option for commercial buildings due to its affordability, durability, and resistance to extreme weather conditions. Its installation process is relatively straightforward and easy to manage, while its maintenance is relatively low-maintenance.

With the right installation and maintenance, an asphalt shingle roof can provide long-term protection for your property.