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.