What is Asphalt Shingles?
Often chosen for
- Detached and semi-detached homes with pitched roofs
- Owners who want good value and many color options
- Impact-resistant types for owners concerned about hail or seeking insurer discounts
Types and installation methods
| Architectural (laminated) shingles | Two or more layers laminated together for a thicker, dimensional look. The most popular choice for re-roofing. |
| 3-tab shingles | A single flat layer cut into three tabs. Lighter and lower in material cost, with a flatter appearance. |
| Impact-resistant shingles | Shingles tested to resist hail impact, commonly rated under UL 2218 (Class 4 is the highest rating). Some insurers offer discounts for them; ask yours. |
Pros and cons
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How long does Asphalt Shingles last?
Estimated life expectancy: about 30 years for architectural asphalt shingles and about 20 years for 3-tab shingles, from InterNACHI's Standard Estimated Life Expectancy Chart. InterNACHI says these figures assume regular maintenance and normal wear and are guidelines, not guarantees. Real service life depends on installation quality, drainage, exposure and upkeep.
Signs your Asphalt Shingles roof needs repair
- Missing, cracked or curling shingles
- Granules collecting in gutters
- Lifted shingles after wind
- Leaks around chimneys, vents and valleys
- Sagging decking or daylight in the attic
Repair or replace?
Missing or damaged shingles and flashing leaks can usually be repaired. When shingles are curling or losing granules across the roof, leaks are appearing in several places, or the roof already has two layers, replacement is usually the better choice. Building codes limit the number of shingle layers allowed.
What affects the cost
We price every job after inspecting and measuring the roof. These are the main factors:
- Roof size, pitch and complexity (valleys, dormers)
- Shingle type: 3-tab, architectural or impact-resistant
- Tear-off of existing layers
- Deck repairs and underlayment
- Flashing, ventilation and drip edge
- Access and debris removal
[Owner: optional typical price range from your own jobs. Leave out if you prefer quoting per job]
Asphalt Shingles in Brooklyn & NYC
Model building codes such as the International Residential Code (R905.2.2) allow asphalt shingles only on slopes of 2:12 or more, with double underlayment between 2:12 and 4:12. NYC has its own building code; we confirm what applies to your roof. In Brooklyn, asphalt shingles are common on detached homes in neighborhoods like Midwood, Flatbush and Kensington.
Our process
- Inspection & photos
We inspect the roof, drains and flashing and document what we find. - Written estimate
Scope, materials and options in writing before work starts. - Installation or repair
Asphalt Shingles work done to the manufacturer's instructions. [Owner: manufacturers/brands you install] - Clean-up & final photos
Debris removed, final walkthrough and photos.
Compare other shingle roofing options
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