Homeowners are often overwhelmed with making decisions about home improvement projects. After all, there’s a lot to consider; selecting materials and hiring contractors to evaluate potential risks versus rewards can be pretty daunting.
Home renovators must decide what shingles to use for their roof replacement project.
To help homeowners make an informed choice, this blog post will provide a detailed overview of fiberglass shingles.
So… Is There Fiberglass In Shingles?
In short, yes! Many asphalt shingles indeed have a fiberglass base.
Here’s a breakdown of the types along with a couple advantages:
- Fiberglass Shingles (Composite Shingles): These shingles are constructed with a fiberglass base, coated with asphalt, and topped with ceramic granules. They are known for their durability and resistance to weather.
- 3-Tab and Architectural Shingles: Both types are made from a combination of asphalt, adhesives, granules, and a fiberglass base. These variations offer different aesthetic and performance options.
Advantages of Fiberglass Shingles:
- Cost-Effective: Fiberglass shingles are generally more affordable and widely available than other roofing materials.
- Durability: They are more weather-resistant and durable compared to other types of shingles, with a lifespan of up to 25 years.
However, it’s important to note that fiberglass shingles may need replacement more often than other roofing materials, typically lasting between 15 to 30 years.
What Are Fiberglass Shingles?
Fiberglass shingles are ideal for your crawl space tree removal project due to their durability and lightweight composition.
Constructed of a woven fiberglass base mat, coated with a waterproof asphalt layer, and capped with ceramic granules to safeguard them against UV exposure, fiberglass shingles require much less asphalt than traditional organic shingles.
This makes them more environmentally friendly and an excellent choice for remodeling projects that must stay within budget and environmental regulations.
Their non-porous property means they won’t grow mold or mildew either. It makes them an effective long-term option that won’t require costly maintenance or repairs in the future. Plus, they don’t easily break or bend under pressure, making them a reliable roofing material that will last.
Types of Fiberglass Shingles
Fiberglass shingles are a popular choice for roofing due to their durability and affordability. There are two main fiberglass shingles: The three tab shingle and the architectural shingle.
1) The 3-tab shingle
The 3-tab shingle is the most affordable and straightforward fiberglass shingle available today. It has three tabs overlapping, creating a flat surface with no ridges or valleys. This makes it easier to install than other types of roofing materials, as the installation involves less cutting.
The downside to this type of shingle is that it doesn’t offer much protection from wind or hail damage, so if you live in an area prone to severe weather, you may want to consider another option.
2) The architectural shingle
The architectural shingle is more expensive but offers superior protection against wind and hail damage due to its unique design, which includes multiple layers of overlapping material that create ridges and valleys along its surface.
This allows airflow between each layer which helps reduce uplift forces caused by strong winds. Therefore, it makes them ideal for areas prone to extreme weather conditions such as hurricanes or tornadoes.
These ridges also help protect against ice dams during winter months by allowing snowmelt runoff rather than pooling on your roof like with a flat-surface 3-tab style roof system.
Maintenance and Care of Fiberglass Shingles
Preserving and caring for fiberglass shingles is essential to protect your home.
Fiberglass shingles may be sturdy, but they still require routine maintenance to stay in optimal condition. To ensure the longevity of your fiberglass shingles, here are some suggestions for their upkeep and maintenance.
1) Clean Debris From the Surface of the Shingles
Regularly remove leaves, twigs, and other debris that can accumulate on the surface of your fiberglass shingles. This will help prevent water damage due to trapped moisture.
2) Check for Missing or Damaged Shingles
Look for any missing or damaged shingles during routine maintenance checks and repair them immediately to avoid further damage. You can call Roof Troopers to handle the hard task for you.
3) Inspect Around Flashings and Valleys
It is crucial to inspect these areas regularly as they are prone to leaking if not properly sealed or maintained over time. Make sure there are no gaps in sealants and replace them when necessary.
Cost Considerations for Fiberglass Shingles
When buying fiberglass shingles, there are several cost factors to consider. The type of shingle you choose will affect your roof’s price, size, and complexity. For example, a complex roof with multiple slopes may require more materials than a simple flat roof.
Moreover, the grade of the material can be a cost factor; pricier materials tend to endure longer and potentially give only safeguards for your house.
The average cost of installing fiberglass shingles depends on factors such as labor costs in your area and any additional services needed. For a typical 3,000-square-foot roof in 2023, installing fiberglass shingles will range from $14,250 to an impressive $25,740.
Weighing the various expenses and setup costs of fiberglass shingles is a must before selecting roof material, thus necessitating deliberation of all pros and cons.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Fiberglass Shingles
Fiberglass shingles offer several advantages over their traditional organic asphalt shingles. These include:
Pros
- Durable and long-lasting.
- Resistant to fire, wind, hail, insect infestations, and other forms of damage.
- Lightweight, so they’re easy to install and transport.
- Excellent insulation, which can help save energy costs over time.
- Wide range of colors and textures available.
Cons
- More expensive than traditional asphalt shingles.
- It may require more maintenance than some other roofing materials.
FAQs
Do you have some burning questions about fiberglass shingles? Keep reading for the answers to all your FAQs!
Are fiberglass shingles any good?
Fiberglass shingles are an excellent choice for roofing. They deliver a robust defense from extreme conditions, like gusts of wind and hail, while providing exceptional thermal insulation. Additionally, they are lightweight and easy to install compared to other materials like asphalt or wood.
Which is better, asphalt or fiberglass roof shingles?
Asphalt and fiberglass roof shingles have distinct benefits and drawbacks; choosing between them will depend on your needs. An asphalt shingle is more affordable, easier to install, and can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance.
Fiberglass shingles boast increased durability, fire resistance, and the potential for a lifespan of 30 years or more. Ultimately, the best choice for your roof depends on your budget, local climate conditions, and other factors.
Do they still make fiberglass shingles?
Yes, fiberglass shingles are still available and used in many roofing projects. Fiberglass shingles are popular due to their longevity and straightforward setup. Fiberglass shingles come in many hues and designs, offering an eye-catching aesthetic for any residence or commercial building.
Conclusion
Homeowners should weigh the pros and cons of fiberglass shingle roofs before deciding, as other materials may be better suited for certain climates or budgets. Installation should also be considered; a professional must install fiberglass shingle roofs to ensure proper ventilation and drainage.
If you’re looking for a reliable contractor to install your new fiberglass shingle roof, look no further than Roof Troopers!
Our team of professionals will provide quality workmanship with superior customer service so you can feel confident in your investment. Contact us today for more information about our services and how we can help make your dream home come true!
