Roofing Materials: Know the Basics Before You Build

by DoItYourself Staff

Fiberglass Asphalt Shingle

Has a base mat of glass fibers covered with ceramic-coated mineral granules.

Some types may use a polyester or fiberglass blend for the base mat.

An inorganic shingle.

Features a better fire rating and often has a longer warranty than other types of shingles.

Does not absorb water and resists cracking.

Most come with seal-down strips. These are most effective when applied in warm weather, which allows the asphalt in the strip to soften and adhere to the next shingle.

An inorganic-based shingle usually has a Class A fire resistance rating from the Underwriters Laboratories (UL). UL also tests for shingle performance in high winds. To qualify for the wind-resistance label, shingles must withstand test winds of at least 60 mph for two hours without a single tab lifting.

Three-Dimensional Asphalt Shingle

Also known as a laminated asphalt shingle, or architectural shingle.

An inorganic shingle.

Characterized by a more rugged texture than a standard three-tab shingle.

Weighs and costs more than standard shingles.

Made of two or more layers that are laminated to create the three-dimensional look, giving it the appearance closer to wood or slate roofing.

Roll Roofing

Less expensive than shingles.

Used on lower-slope roofs or as a supplement to shingles.

Comes with either a smooth or mineral-covered surface on a heavy felt base that has been saturated with asphalt and then coated on both sides with more asphalt.

Easy to install.

A typical roll roofing, known as 90-lb. granule-coated, will cover 100 square feet.

A 45-lb. smooth roofing, without granules, will also cover 100 square feet.

A properly applied roll roofing should last from 10 to 20 years.

Metal Roofing

Steel panels designed to cover the roof in place of shingles.

Designed with either exposed or hidden fasteners.

Metal roofing can be coated with zinc or a mixture of zinc and aluminum for rust prevention. The best steel panels are manufactured with zinc.

Clay Tile

A roofing material known for its durability, as it can last up to 50 years.

May be flat or rounded in shape, and may even have a glossy surface.

Can be made of clay or concrete.

Colors include reddish brown as well as blue and green.

Wood Shingle

Typically made of cedar, although composite wood shingles are available.

Flat shape and a smooth texture.

Usually 1/2” thick.

Wood shakes are similar, but have a rougher texture. They are usually 1/2” or 3/4” thick.

More difficult to install than asphalt shingles.

Features may include a fire-retardant coating, which only reduces, not eliminates, its flammability.

Flashing

Strips of sheet metal or roofing material.

Used to make waterproof joints on a roof.

Some flashing may be called a “boot”. This kind is specially made to fit around a vent pipe. They are often made of plastic. It fits snugly over the pipe and then slides under the shingles for a waterproof joint.

Seals with flashing sealant, usually sold in a tube and applied with a caulk gun