Asphalt Shingles
What is it?
Asphalt shingles have a fiberglass or felt paper base and are coated with layer of asphalt, making it waterproof. Finally it’s topped with ceramic granules to protect the asphalt from the UV rays of the sun.
An asphalt shingle roof is the most common type of roofing systems used in Québec, especially in the residential sector. It has proven over the years to perform in even the harshest of Canadian weather. Asphalt shingles have evolved and improved over the years, thanks to the research and development of improved technology in the manufacturing process of these shingles.
Types of Shingles
Architectural Shingles vs. 3-Tab
Architectural shingles are what we and most other roofing companies today recommend to install because of the advantage in quality that it has over 3-tab shingles.
These shingles have a double layer, making it thicker that the traditional 3-tab and more capable of withstanding heavy weather. For example the architectural shingles can resist winds of over 200 km/h while 3 tab can hold up to only just over 90km/h. The three-tab shingles will last approximately 15-20 years, while the architectural shingles can last up to 50 years.
The architectural shingles will add an aesthetic appeal to your home or building due to its 3-dimensional look. 3-tab shingles are mostly flat and uniform, and limited in their colors.
Of course, we must consider with all these advantages, the price of the architectural shingles will be higher than the 3-tab by approximately 40-50%. An investment worth while, given that it will last almost double that of the 3-tab shingles.
The Roofing Process
We start by first protecting your property with high-quality tarps and then proceed to remove your old roof, if necessary. If we notice that the roof decking (wood) is rotten in certain parts after removing the shingles, we will notify you prior to changing that as well.
In order for the water to better drain from your roof, into the gutter, we install an aluminum drip edge along the perimeter of the roof to redirect the flow of water. A thick adhesive, known as an ICE and Water shield is installed at the first few feet of the roof to prevent settling ICE and snow from building into your house. The second membrane is felt paper or a synthetic paper membrane underlayment. Any Ventilation is always changed with the roof , as well as any aluminum or steel valleys. Ventilation is very important for the roof, as it allows your roof to breathe and prevent any humidity build-up. We make sure to cover any gaps between the roof an ventilation caps with plastic cement, to avoid any leaks from entering these spots.
Once the valleys and synthetic underlayment is installed, the asphalt shingles can be installed with high compressed nail guns., starting with starter strip and following up to the top in a staggered formation to prevent water from leaking through. Finally and ridges and hips of the roof are covered with hip & ridge caps made from the same material, to seal off the roof.
