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Product performance.  Asphalt shingles work well in extreme temperatures and in areas where wind, water, and ice prevail.

Affordability  Asphalt shingles’ efficient, high-volume production and relatively low application cost provide consumers with an overall value that is hard to match for other roofing materials, especially in terms of comparable life expectancy.

Low maintenance.  Asphalt shingles, when chosen and applied correctly, require little to no regular maintenance and are easily repaired if damaged.

Ease of application.  Asphalt shingles are considered to be the easiest to apply of all the standard roofing materials.  In addition, the flexibility and strength of asphalt shingles support their application in a wide variety of roof designs.
Resistance to fire and wind.  Asphalt shingles are manufactured to withstand external fire and flammability standards, and have Class A, B, or C fire ratings, with Class A providing the highest fire resistance.  

These fire ratings are defined by nationally recognized standards and tested by independent testing agencies.  Also, many asphalt shingles that carry a “wind resistance” label indicate that they have been manufactured and tested to demonstrate acceptable resistance in windy locations. “Make sure you pick a good roofing contractor and they’ll make it all work.  Pittsabana, we can help you!

Asphalt shingles are affordable and long-lasting, making them a popular roofing choice for homeowners. Those who invest in regular roof maintenance can decrease wear and tear, which further reduces the costs of upkeep for this roofing material. Here are a few ways to care for the roofing system to maintain its functionality for years to come.

4 Steps to Extending the Lifespan of an Asphalt Shingle Roof

1. Trim Branches

Fallen leaves can look picturesque on a roof at first, but they harbor moisture and eventually start rotting. If a storm blows through, falling branches can hit the shingles, causing tearing or puncturing the underlying moisture seal. Trim the surrounding branches so there is at least a foot of clearance between them and the roof. Whenever there is debris on the roof, get it cleaned off as quickly as possible and check for any underlying damage.

2. Maintain Roof Fixtures

Loose chimney bricks or wobbly HVAC vents could fall and damage the surrounding surfaces. Perform a visual check on their condition a few times each year. Arrange for repairs if there are any noticeable issues. 

Adding or changing such fixtures can involve cutting into the existing shingles. If this is done unprofessionally, the area may be vulnerable to leaks. Be watchful after maintenance work and call a roofer if you notice any issues.   

3. Watch for Missing Shingles

Replacing a missing asphalt shingle is a fairly simple process for a professional roofer and involves minimal expense. Letting a hole in the roofing go unrepaired allows damage to spread and could lead to the need for total roof replacement. Do periodic inspections to check for any gaps, especially after any high winds or severe storms.

If you’re concerned about missing shingles in an area that isn’t visible from the edge of the roof, schedule a professional inspection. Trying to walk across the shingles on your own can cause damage to the roof, as well as put you at risk of slipping and falling. 

4. Remove Moss Growth

Algae and moss growth aren’t uncommon on roofs, but they shouldn’t be allowed to spread unchecked. Since they eat organic material and harbor excess moisture, they’ll weaken the underlying structure. When these fungi pop up, kill them by applying a simple bleach solution to the affected shingles. Afterward, gently rinse the roof with water. Excess force can strip the protective granules from asphalt shingles, so never use a power washer or high-powered sprayer. 

If you need help caring for asphalt shingles, trust the team at Pittsabana Contracting Services LLC in Castle Shannon, PA. Their honest and reliable crew offers guaranteed work on everything from simple roof repairs to complete replacements. They’ll analyze issues and find a solution that fits your budget and gives you peace of mind. Call (412) 580-6567 to speak with a team member or learn more about their repair services on their website.

Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material used on homes in North America, and for good reason. They are designed to protect a home for decades of weathering with minimal maintenance, and are available in hundreds of colors and styles. Today we’ll introduce you to the 3 most common. 

Shingle Strips

These asphalt shingles are approximately three times as long as they are wide.  Manufactured in standard and metric dimensions, strip shingles are distinguished by the number of cuts or tabs they have.  The most common type of shingle is the “three-tab” shingle.  Different textural and lighting / shadow effects can be achieved with strip shingles depending on the number, shape and alignment of the cutouts.

 Laminate Shingles

These specialty shingles contain more than one layer of tabs to create additional thickness.  They are also known as three-dimensional or architectural shingles because they create visual depth in a roof and impart a custom look.  Laminate shingles continue to be a favorite with builders, roofing contractors, and home buyers.
Interlocking Shingles – As the name suggests, interlocking asphalt shingles are individual shingles that are mechanically held together, and are used to provide greater resistance to the wind.  They come in various shapes and sizes that provide a wide range of design possibilities.

Large Format Shingles

Generally rectangular or hexagonal in shape, these shingles do not use cuts or tabs.  If asphalt shingles are ideal for your roofing system, contact Pittsabana Contracting Services LLC.  Roofing contractors provide residential services to homeowners throughout Pittsburgh, PA and the surrounding areas, including roof installations, repairs, and replacements.  Call (412) 580-6567 for a free estimate or visit licensed and insured contractors online for additional information.

Sooner or later, all roofs need to be replaced, usually due to the long-term effects of the weather.  If a residential roof is more than 20 years old, it is an ideal candidate for a roof change.  To determine if you need a new roof:

On the ground, walk around your home with binoculars and inspect your roof for cracked, curved, or missing tiles, as well as any excessive loss of protective mineral granules.  DO NOT CLIMB ON THE ROOF;  walking on the roof is dangerous and can damage it.

In your attic, take a flashlight and look at the underside of the roof deck and rafters for stains or damp spots that indicate water leaks.

The best way to install asphalt shingles is by tearing out existing ones and making sure the wood is in good condition or replacing or repairing the wood and then installing a comprehensive roofing system that ensures it will work harmoniously and allow your roof to breathe.  A good roofing company will always make sure in addition to replacing all flashings on the roof, eliminating the possibility of these becoming a water inlet for your roof.  Pittsabana will make the best recommendations about your roof replacement and make sure you get what you are looking for and will even exceed your expectations.