HUEBNER ROOFING INC.

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SPECIALIZING IN SLATE AND TILE ROOFS
Telephone: (630) 257-9394
e-mail:iroofer1@comcast.net

A Run Down Asphalt Roof

ASPHALT SHINGLES

Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing materials for steep roofs used today. There are many different colors, textures, and styles. The two most common styles of shingles are a three-tab shingle or a dimensional shingle. A dimensional shingle has another shingle laminated on top to give a layered appearance. A shingles longevity can be anywhere from 15 years up to 40 years depending on the quality of the shingle, the slope of the roof, and proper ventilation.

An asphalt shingle is made up of many different layers. The top layer consists of granules imbedded in asphalt. These granules give the shingle color, reflect the light, and give the shingle a durable surface. The top layer also consists of a seal-down strip. The seal-down strip, when heated by the sun, melts the shingles together to prevent wind uplift so the shingles become resistant to high winds. It is a good idea to have shingles installed in warmer weather so that they seal-down properly. In the core of a shingle there is a fiberglass mat. This mat holds the shingle together and provides a foundation that resists cracking and splitting. The longevity of a shingle depends on the quality of the asphalt, the amount of asphalt used, and the quality of the fiberglass mat. It is a good idea when purchasing a asphalt shingle roof to ask your contractor for samples, literature, and warranty information about the shingle you are about to have installed.

To install a new asphalt shingle roof on your home and you have an existing asphalt shingle roof you have to determine whether to " re-roof" (go over the existing roof) or to the tear off your roof. If you have two roofs installed already, a bad roof structure, shingles that are curled and not level, or bad roof leaks, it is recommended that you tear off your roof. These conditions are to be determined by your roofer.

When installing a new asphalt shingle roof in order to insure a good quality job you must use the correct metal flashings, repair all rotted decking, use asphalt underlayment, use ice and water shield where needed, and properly fasten and install the shingles.