Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular roofing materials in the country. They’re durable, long-lasting and aesthetically beautiful. However, there are still plenty of misconceptions surrounding this roofing material. Whether it’s from your family, friends or neighbors, you may have heard a few myths about asphalt shingle roofs that are far from the truth.
Asphalt Shingles Won’t Shed Granules After Installation
Asphalt shingles have a layer of embedded granules to protect them from the elements, particularly ultraviolet (UV) radiation. These granules also provide asphalt shingles with other features, such as their color and solar reflectivity. During manufacturing, these granules are pressed into the asphalt layer. As such, you should expect to lose a few granules after installation. The granules may also get washed off by rain, but it does not necessarily indicate roof damage.
Asphalt Shingles Have Asbestos
It’s true that asphalt shingles did contain asbestos in the past, but that was before they were eventually phased out in the 1960s. Rest assured that today’s asphalt shingles are made without this dangerous building material. Nevertheless, if your home was built between the 1950s and 1980s, you may want to let your roofer know. Some of the old materials used in the construction of these homes need to be tested for asbestos content.
Asphalt Shingles Are Created Equal
Many homeowners assume that asphalt shingles look cheap, plain and unappealing. That’s why many of them hesitate to install asphalt shingle roofs. However, asphalt shingles do not come in one, single form. In fact, asphalt shingles are available in a wide variety of colors, shapes and protection levels. Roofing contractors would be the first to say that asphalt shingles are the most customizable roofing material on the market.
Asphalt Shingle Adhesive Cures Immediately
Asphalt shingles of the past did not have a sealant strip, which means they used to be manually sealed with adhesives after installation. In the late 1950s, “self-sealing” shingles were introduced. While some adhesives do cure immediately, take note that asphalt shingle adhesives cure with the help of solar heat. Adhesives on asphalt shingles improve resistance to wind damage and typically take a few days to cure after installation.
Now that you know the truth about asphalt shingle roofs, be sure to consider them for your next roof replacement. When it comes to replacing your roof, look no further than Willi Roofing Services. Our roofing experts are proudly GAF-certified contractors and are determined to provide top-quality roofing work. Call us today at (512) 394-8234, or fill out our contact form to set an appointment. We offer services in Round Rock, TX, and the surrounding communities.
