What Is Asphalt Roofing?
When you decide to replace your home’s roof with asphalt shingles, you might wonder what you should expect to pay for the job. You’ll need to know how much asphalt shingles will cost, the minimum pitch for an asphalt roof, and the home maintenance requirements. Fortunately, we’ve put together some valuable tips to help you make the best decision for your home.
Cost of asphalt shingles
Asphalt shingles are a popular and affordable choice for roofing your home. The material is durable, lightweight, and comes in various colors. Some premium brands boast a 50-year lifespan. They are also energy efficient and environmentally friendly.
Asphalt shingles are most commonly used for paving roads but are also used in dam construction and lining retention ponds. They control soil erosion and are even used by automobile manufacturers to prevent rust on fenders. Asphalt shingles are made of two layers of material: the base material is usually a fiberglass mat or an organic felt. The asphalt coating is then applied over this material. Asphalt shingles come in a variety of colors and textures. Many top manufacturers produce these shingles. Some of the best brands include CertainTeed, GAF, Atlas, and IKO.
The lifespan of asphalt shingles depends on the climate and other environmental factors. However, some manufacturers guarantee a fifteen to thirty-year useful life. If you live in scorching weather, you may need to replace your asphalt roofing Raleigh NC, sooner. Moreover, ice and fungus can cause tiny cracks in asphalt shingles. In damp areas, algae and fungus can also cause damage to the roof. If you want to avoid these problems, you can invest in algae-resistant shingles.
Minimum roof pitch for asphalt shingles
When installing asphalt shingles, you should consider the roof’s pitch. Most asphalt shingle manufacturers recommend a minimum roof pitch of four inches. However, you can find shingles that can be installed on roofs as low as two inches. It is not advisable to install shingles on a top with a slope more downward than this, as this may compromise the durability of your new roof.
Besides being easy to install, asphalt shingles also give a great aesthetic look to your house. Moreover, these shingles can adapt to different roof shapes. They also require less maintenance and can save you money over time. In addition, if you live in an area with a low-sloped roof, you may consider using another roofing material.
If your roof pitch is four inches or higher, you should use a 15-pound asphalt-felt underlayment. Each sheet of felt paper should overlap the one beneath it by at least three inches, providing a backup layer against water infiltration. The underlayment is tacked to the roof sheathing before shingles are applied.
Cost of installation
If you have an asphalt roof on your home, you may wonder how much it will cost to install. Luckily, there are some things you can do to reduce the cost of the installation process. For one, you can get several quotes from local roofers in one place. That way, you can compare the prices and find the best professional for your budget.
The price will vary depending on the roof’s size and the installation’s complexity. For example, a 3,000-square-foot roof will cost around $11,867. This figure is for asphalt composition shingles that weigh approximately 2.2 pounds per square foot. They are also fire and wind-resistant and come with a 30-year warranty.
The cost of an asphalt roof depends on several factors. The most significant factor is the roof’s square footage. However, it would be best to remember that an asphalt roof does not last forever. It should be replaced once it shows signs of wear and tear, such as missing shingles or noticeable damage to the flashing.
Maintenance requirements
Proper maintenance of asphalt roofing is necessary for its long-term performance. This type of roofing is prone to corrosion and premature wear if care is not taken. Here are some ways to keep your asphalt roof in excellent condition. It would be best if you kept the surrounding area clear of overgrown trees, which can cause a roof to leak and puncture. Regularly clean the top to avoid pooling water.
It’s also a good idea to hire a professional to inspect the roof for damage. These professionals can spot problems before they become severe and save you money on repairs in the future. They usually recommend performing inspections twice a year and more often after bad weather. Performing regular inspections will make sure your asphalt roof remains in top condition. Maintaining your roof will help you avoid expensive repairs. Properly maintaining it will also keep it looking great for years to come.
Proper ventilation is also essential for your asphalt shingle roof. Proper ventilation will prevent moisture from building up in the roof space and help prevent mold growth. Adequate ventilation will also prevent trapped heat from baking the shingles and reducing their lifespan.