Asphalt Shingles: How Are they Made?

Asphalt shingles have become the roofing material of choice for many Westerly homeowners due to their durability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal. But have you ever wondered how these versatile roofing materials are made and why they are an excellent choice for your home? In this detailed article, we will take you on a journey through the fascinating process of manufacturing asphalt shingles and explain why they are the right choice for your Westerly home.

The Art of Crafting Asphalt Shingles

• Base Mat Creation: The production of asphalt shingles begins with the creation of a base mat. This mat is often made from fiberglass or organic materials like cellulose and wood fibers. These materials are carefully chosen for their strength, durability, and fire resistance.
• Asphalt Coating: The base mat is coated with a layer of asphalt to provide waterproofing and weather resistance. The asphalt is mixed with mineral fillers to enhance its properties and ensure it adheres well to the mat.
• Fiberglass Mat Application: If fiberglass is used as the base mat, it is saturated with the asphalt mixture using a process known as the wet-laid process. This results in a strong and flexible roofing material that can withstand various weather conditions.
• Granule Application: Colored ceramic granules are embedded into the top surface of the shingle. These granules serve multiple purposes: they provide UV protection, enhance the shingle's aesthetics, and contribute to fire resistance.
• Sealing and Cutting: To ensure the shingles remain securely in place, a strip of adhesive asphalt is applied to the bottom of each shingle during manufacturing. This strip activates when exposed to heat from the sun, bonding the shingles together and forming a watertight barrier. The shingles are then cut into individual pieces.

Why Asphalt Shingles Are the Right Choice

• Affordability: Asphalt shingles offer a cost-effective roofing solution that provides great value for your investment. Their competitive pricing makes them an ideal choice for homeowners looking for quality and affordability.
• Durability: The combination of asphalt and fiberglass or organic materials results in shingles that are highly durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions, including wind, rain, and hail.
• Versatility: Asphalt shingles are available in a wide range of colors, styles, and textures, allowing you to choose a roofing design that complements the architectural aesthetics of your Westerly home.
• Energy Efficiency: Some asphalt shingles are designed with reflective properties that help reduce heat absorption. This can contribute to better energy efficiency by keeping your home cooler during the hot summer months.
• Ease of Installation: Asphalt shingles are relatively lightweight and easy to install, reducing labor costs and installation time. This makes them a preferred choice for roofing projects of various sizes.

Choose Asphalt Shingles With Henderson Roofing

For Westerly homeowners considering asphalt shingles as their roofing material, Henderson Roofing is your trusted partner. With years of experience in the industry, Henderson Roofing offers expert installation and maintenance services to ensure your asphalt shingle roof is installed with precision and care. Contact Henderson Roofing today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward enhancing the durability, aesthetics, and value of your Westerly home with high-quality asphalt shingles. Let Henderson Roofing guide you through the process of choosing and installing the perfect asphalt shingle roof for your home.