Learn About The Three Most Popular Roofing Shingles Sold Today

Wood Shakes and 3 Tab Roofing Shingles

Wood Shakes are the oldest shingle and 3 tabs have been around for decades.

Shingle technology has progressed, just like everything else. Homes built up to the middle 1900s had wood shakes. The species depended widely on what was prevalent in the area. They were labor-intensive and required maintenance; they were good but were prone to dry rot, algae, and moss growth. The most common species is cedar and, it is still used today because cedar shingles are naturally weather resistant. The first asphalt shingles were often referred to as organics. They were manufactured with wood, rags, and cellulose material. The composite was mixed all together with asphalt creating the base for the shingle. The most common shingle is called the 3 tab, 3 tabs were the go shingle for decades. The trouble with the early design of these roofing shingles were the materials or composites that were all mixed together. Some composites reacted with each other. Many just weren’t stable on a roof that would be punished with the elements. Some of the 3 tabs I’ve encountered have literally boiled, blistered, and distorted on the roof! These organic shingles had a bad reputation. The Southern exposures of homes were often punished by the sun. These 3 tabs had a very short life cycle. In reality, many manufacturers were making the shingles the same way. The technology wasn’t there yet.

Architectural Roofing Shingles

Enter the architectural shingle.

In late 1990 the architectural shingle entered the market. Some were manufactured organically with a little more weight. They tended to last a bit longer. The big difference that added to the recipe and longevity was fiberglass. Instead of relying on cellulose and fillers that nobody how they would react, fiberglass was a stable material that held the architectural shingle together. Architectural shingles are the new norm and, 3 tabs are nearly purged out of the Minnesota market unless a roof patch is needed. 3-tabs are even more expensive than architectural shingles because they have become a specialty item. New items are being tested in the market every year. Minnesota brings a climate that tests each one to the extreme. Temperature swings that expand and contract products. With my experience in the warranty area, I suggest not being a guinea pig. Use products that have been around and been tested by Minnesota and not in a lab. Architectural shingles just like the Certainteed Landmark is one shingle that I’ve seen the progression on, and they have yet to sell out to the box chains and alter their product to enter the “price is king” arena.

Stone Coated Shingles and Painted Steel Shingles

The newcomer of the group is the steel roofing shingle.

There are many variations with it on the market today. The early versions of stone coated steel had shortcomings in which patterns and seams appeared. The roof those were installed on appeared very manufactured. Technology advanced and, so did the ability to produce a very nice product. With new construction, an install can be much easier because of the ability to flash the transition areas on the roof correctly. Existing residential buildings can be a challenge depending on what is on the home for siding. These types of roofs are best explained as water management systems. Water actually runs underneath the panels on end walls and rakes and is directed out compared to asphalt roofs shedding water.

About Rooftop Solutions

Looking for a new roof and live in or around New Richland, Albert Lea, Owatonna, or Mankato Minnesota? Maybe you just want to discuss the life left in your roof. Expect an honest and educated answer from me.

Brandon Kroeger 507-400-7663