What Are Asphalt Shingles Made Of

William Sommer • November 20, 2023

Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material for homes across the country, making up the roofs of an estimated 80% of houses. The material is versatile, relatively long-lasting, and cost-effective. It also comes in a wide range of styles and colors to match the aesthetic of any property. When it's time for a new roof, the team at Intercept Roofing is here to provide quick responses, high-quality roofing services, and support as you navigate the insurance claim process. We also want to ensure all of our clients are informed about different roofing materials and options.

So, what are roofing shingles made of? Read this quick overview from the experts about asphalt shingles, what they are made from, the different composition options available on the market, and how to make sure your home stays protected with a sturdy roof.

Composition of Asphalt Shingles

What is an asphalt roof? Asphalt roofs are composed of multiple layers, and the shingles themselves contain different materials. In fact, asphalt roofs are often called 'composition roofs' because of their three signature layers:

An asphalt-coated base mat forms the core layer of the roof.
A separate asphalt layer protects the underlying shingles from damage caused by hail or other debris.
A layer of granules spread across the roof to add fire resistance and protect the shingles from long-term sun exposure.

These three layers work together to create a long-lasting roof, and each layer can be customized to the unique needs of your property or region. One of the most popular personalizations is choosing organic and fiberglass shingles for asphalt roofing.

Organic

What are roofing shingles made of when they're organic? Organic shingles still have a layer of protective asphalt, but the base material of the shingles is an organic media. Common options are paper, wood pulp, or felt. These shingles are more affordable than fiberglass options.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass shingles are built for more strength and durability. They have a base layer that's made of fiberglass strands woven together and adhered in place with a resin. Because of the fiberglass, the shingles can better withstand water and are lighter. However, they are more expensive than organic shingles.

Architectural or Three-Tab

Once you know what are roofing shingles made of, it's then time to pick the right style option. Two of the most popular are architectural shingles and three-tab shingles.

Architectural or dimensional shingles have a more defined and thicker appearance. They give the roof more texture and depth while also offering longer-lasting protection because they have multiple asphalt coatings.

Three-tab shingles are the conventional option for many areas. Each shingle has three tabs; roofing experts install them in a staggered pattern to protect the underlying roof. While three-tab shingles have been the default choice for homeowners in past decades, architectural shingles are becoming popular because of their improved aesthetics and durability.

How Long Do Asphalt Shingles Last?

The lifespan of asphalt roofing shingles depends on the weather, climate, and conditions of the roof. Excessive sunlight, hail damage, or exposure to overgrown trees can damage the asphalt roofing sheet and other surface components. However, three-tab shingles generally last approximately 20 years, and dimensional shingles last up to 28 years.

How Do I Know When My Asphalt Shingles Need to be Replaced?

You can use some visual cues to know when your asphalt shingles are nearing the end of their lifespan. These signs include:

Missing shingles, which indicate gaps in your roof's protective layer
Curling or ripped shingles, as that means the asphalt coating is fading away
Light in your attic, which shows where gaps are in the roof
Finding granules on your driveway or in your gutters, as this means the roof is starting to break down

You can also use the age of your asphalt roofing shingles to estimate when it's time for a new roof—or at least a roof inspection. If your roof is older than 15 years, schedule an appointment with our professional roofers.

Experience Superior Roofing Services With Intercept Roofing in Nashville, TN

At Intercept Roofing, we're committed to providing high-quality roof repair and replacement services with asphalt shingles that both protect your home and make it look great. Contact us today to get a free inspection or schedule an appointment.

Image Source: ungvar/Shutterstock

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