Fiberglass vs. Organic-Mat Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing type on the US market. People love them because they—re highly affordable, easy to install, and should any of your shingles crack or break off, you can have a new one in place before it has time to rain again! What kind of shingles should you get? Organic-mat or fiberglass? The answer to this question is not an easy one, but a few things can help differentiate between the two. There are organic shingles that have a paper base and asphalt coating; on the other hand, fiberglass shingles have a fiberglass base and are topped with ceramic granules. Deciding between the two can be difficult, but that's why we—re here to help you make the best decision for your home.

Fiberglass Shingles

Fiberglass shingles are renowned for their strength and durability. They are excellent at repelling water, are fire-resistant, and are great for homes in warmer climates. The ceramic granules are excellent at reflecting harmful UV rays, and because they—re made up of less asphalt than the organic-mat shingles, they are an environmentally friendly alternative. With regular maintenance and care, you can expect your fiberglass shingle roof to last between 20 to 50 years. However, compared to the organic-mat shingle, they are the pricier option. Homeowners can expect to pay between $8000 to $16000 for their fiberglass roof, depending on the roof's size, slope, and pitch. Fiberglass shingles are not the best insulators; therefore, they—re not the best roofing option for homes in cold climates.

Organic Mat Shingles

Organic mat shingles are an excellent roofing material for homeowners looking to save money and get a reliable roof. These organic mats last longer than other materials because they have the protective layer of asphalt that makes them strong, durable, and affordable! Unlike fiberglass shingles, organic-mat shingles are great for homes in colder climates as they absorb and hold onto heat. Unfortunately, this characteristic isn't the best for houses with warm and humid climates; these types of roofs often retain moisture, leading to warping or curling. Organic-mat shingles are a lot more affordable; homeowners can expect to pay between $2000 to $5000, depending on the size, pitch, and slope of your roof. While these shingles are more affordable, they have a shorter lifespan than fiberglass shingles, lasting between 15 to 30 years. For more information about America's favorite roofing material, give Henderson Roofing a call today!