Asphalt shingles are the most common types of roofing materials on residential homes. Designed to protect a house from water, wind, snow and ice, and other weather conditions, these types of shingles are affordable and reliable – and that makes them an excellent choice for roofing materials.

There are several types of asphalt shingles available, including strip shingles, dimensional shingles (often referred to as architectural shingles) and luxury shingles.

• Strip shingles are also known as three-tab shingles because of the way they’re cut. These are the most basic type of asphalt shingles, and they’re made from a single layer of asphalt. These shingles have a very flat appearance, and they’re generally lighter than other types. Strip shingles also cost less (because they’re made from just one layer of asphalt).

• Dimensional shingles are commonly called architectural shingles. They’re sometimes called laminate shingles, too. These are the most common type of shingles – you’ve probably seen them on several Dallas-area homes, and you may even have them yourself. These dimensional shingles are actually made from two to three layers of asphalt, which are fused together to create a thicker, richer, multi-dimensional appearance. Usually, these types of shingles are designed to replicate other materials, like slate or wood shakes. Architectural shingles are heavier than three-tab shingles are, and generally, they come with significantly better warranties.

• Luxury shingles are the highest-quality asphalt shingles available. These types of shingles offer exceptional protection against the elements, and they’re available in a huge range of styles and colors. They tend to create the most realistic replications of wood shakes and slates, as well. They’re tougher than the other types of asphalt shingles as well.

Benefits of Asphalt Roofs 

Asphalt roofs can help fight algae growth, resist hail and other environmental conditions, and even sometimes come with cool roof color technologies that help reflect the sun’s heat (and lower homeowners’ energy bills). Asphalt shingles are naturally fire-resistant, too, which means they may be the smartest choice for your home.

You should speak with a professional roofing consultant at AR Global Roofing and Construction if you need to repair or replace your roof – the expert you talk to can help you make the right choices when it comes to materials. We’ll consider your budget and your goals to ensure you’re getting exactly what you need.

How Long Does an Asphalt Roof Last? 

A standard asphalt roof can last for 20 to 30 years, though some materials last longer. Generally, a roof’s lifespan depends on several factors, including the quality of the installation, the materials used, the materials beneath the shingles, the types of maintenance you’ve performed on it, whether any repairs have been made, and the types of weather events it’s been exposed to.

If your roof becomes damaged at any point, it’s absolutely essential that you make repairs immediately. The sooner you repair a roof problem, the less likely it is to spiral out of control (and the less it will cost you). If you avoid making roof repairs while problems are still small, there’s a very good chance that the damage will increase – and you’ll become more likely to have to replace your entire roof.

As a general rule, when you see your neighbors start installing new roofs, it’s time to start thinking about yours.