Choosing the right type of shingles can make a huge difference. You must be sure that your shingles are weatherproof, durable, and look terrific on your home before you need to replace them. 80% of US homeowners rely on two types of shingles– organic asphalt shingles and fiberglass-reinforced asphalt shingles. If you want to know whether fiberglass shingles are better for your home, we are here with a detailed guide for you.
At RST Roofing and Renovations, we’ve been helping homeowners learn more about their homes and the roofing industry. In this article, we will explain everything you need to know about fiberglass shingles and whether they are suitable for your home.
What Are Fiberglass Shingles?
Fiberglass shingles are a new type of asphalt shingle. They have a base layer made from fiberglass matting, which is covered by an asphalt layer, and the top layer is mineral granules. Fiberglass shingles are one of the most popular choices among homeowners looking for a new roof. Even though there are a lot of different options available, fiberglass shingles are suitable for most homes in North America.
Fiberglass shingles were first used in the 1970s by one of the leading shingle manufacturers– Owens Corning. This was a revolutionary product, as fiberglass shingles eliminated the overuse of non-renewable resources and utilized recycled raw materials to manufacture roofing shingles. Fiberglass shingles quickly became the first choice for homeowners in rainy, warm, and storm-prone areas. The success of Owens Corning’s product made other companies like CertainTeed and Johns Manville follow up with their own fiberglass products.
Are Fiberglass Shingles Better Than Asphalt?
Organic asphalt shingles have a base matt of paper and tar rather than fiberglass. This makes them less resistant to fire and water compared to fiberglass-reinforced shingles. Organic asphalt shingles are not considered sustainable since they have oil and wood in their composition. However, organic shingles can handle freezing temperatures better than fiberglass if you live in a cold region that is not very snowy. At the same time, fiberglass shingles are best for homes in rainy, humid, and fire-prone areas. The fiberglass matt is what sets them apart. Fiberglass shingles have less asphalt material, making them lightweight yet stronger. On top of it, fiberglass shingles cost less than organic asphalt shingles.
Why Are Fiberglass Shingles Getting Popular?
Fiberglass asphalt shingles have been in high demand for years. They are popular with contractors and homeowners alike for their fire and waterproofing abilities, affordability, and ease of installation. Below is an in-depth look at what makes fiberglass shingles so popular:
👉 Fiberglass-Reinforced Shingles Are Not Flammable
If the area you live is prone to fires, fiberglass shingles can help save your home. Fiberglass is a fire-resistant material. When it gets hot, it doesn’t burn as quickly as other types of roofing materials. This makes them an excellent choice for homes in areas with a high risk of fires, like those near forests or brushy vegetation.
👉 They Are More Moisture Resistant Than Organic Asphalt Shingles
Fiberglass shingles are moisture resistant, which means they can withstand rain, snow, and high humidity. If you live in a region that gets a lot of precipitation, fiberglass shingles are your best option for roofing. In fact, fiberglass shingles are best for areas with heavy rainfall and frequent storms, making them one of the country’s most popular types of roofing material!
👉 Fiberglass Shingles Are Easier To Install
Fiberglass shingles are lightweight. This makes them easier to transport and carry. In the end, they stay intact during transportation and installation. Roofing contractors find it easier to place and nail them down your roof. Do you know how long does it take for asphalt shingles to seal? Fiberglass shingles also have better internal sealing, making them less likely to wither during installation.
👉 They Have An Eco-Friendly Composition
One of the biggest environmental benefits of fiberglass shingles is that they contain 100 percent recycled materials. This helps reduce landfill waste and makes them more readily available than organic asphalt shingles, which include limited resources. Furthermore, fiberglass shingles don’t have cellulose or wood chips- two overused ingredients in asphalt roofing products that we could otherwise repurpose for other essential uses.
If you are looking for new fiberglass shingles, here’s a little background on the three types of fiberglass shingles available today.
Types Of Asphalt Fiberglass Shingles
The durability of the shingles and the quality of the installation depend on the manufacturer and roofing contractor you choose. Asphalt fiberglass shingles are available in a wide range of sizes, shapes, textures, and colors.
1. 3-Tab Shingles
3-tab asphalt shingles are the oldest and the most affordable style of asphalt shingles. They are a good choice if you want the look of plain old asphalt shingles, or if your budget is restricted. If your home is in a region with moderate weather (cold winters and warm summers), then these could be right up your alley. Under suitable weather conditions, 3-tab shingles can last 10 to 15 years while providing decent insulation.
2. Architectural Or Laminated Shingles
Architectural asphalt shingles are currently the most popular style being used today. They are made of two layers of fiberglass shingles laminated together. Architectural shingles are thicker and more durable than 3-tab, which makes them more sturdy, durable, and appealing. They can withstand high winds, heavy rain, and extreme temperatures better. With regular upkeep, the laminated shingles can last for over 30 years!
Architectural shingles come in many different patterns, but one famous style is the “architectural shake.” This style has a wide, uniform appearance with a textured surface that looks like a natural wood shake roof.
3. Luxury Or Designer Shingles
Designer fiberglass shingles are the most expensive type of fiberglass but also the most durable. The shingles are designed to look like luxurious slate roofs, with varying colors and textures that can mimic natural stone. Designer shingles are thicker than both 3-tab and architectural shingles and have a higher grade of fiberglass. They can protect your home for 40 years! This makes them ideal for harsh climates, where you need a roof that can withstand heavy snowfall and hail.
When you look at the features and suitability of each type of shingle, you must know how much they cost before making up your mind. Below is the average cost to install fiberglass shingles in the US.
Cost Of Fiberglass Shingles
Fiberglass shingles are a middle-of-the-road option when it comes to price. Most homeowners choose architectural shingles and pay around $7,500 for a 1,500 square feet roof.
Your roofing price can vary based on which season you are getting your roof replaced. The labor costs also vary from one roofing company to another. When you are repairing or improving your home, you want to come up with the best possible solution. After getting a new roof, you don’t want to worry about it anytime soon.
So to ensure a flawless installation, it is in your best interest to pick a reliable roofing contractor with experience installing high-quality fiberglass shingles. If you live in Atlanta, Decatur, or the surrounding regions in Georgia, we will be happy to help you.
Are you looking For New Fiberglass Shingles?
Fiberglass shingles are a good choice for homes in a humid subtropical climate. Mild winters and hot summers can allow the shingles to last very long.
At RST Roofing and Renovations, we are experts in asphalt shingle installation. If you need more help choosing the right roofing shingles, call us at (404)-548-8901. We offer a free consultation and estimates to all homeowners, and we look forward to working with you too!
