Asphalt roofing has been around since 1893. A century of this roll roofing has seen many new additions, modifications and said ciao to many. Customers are always looking forward to a high quality and high value effect and this has been so since the time it was rolled out. Hence a lot of companies have been and are overhauling their shingles to meet the demands of the customers. In this article, we will be discussing many advancements in the field of asphalt roofing.
Reinforcement material: from Cotton rags to fiberglass
Initially cotton rags including paper or wood pulp were used as reinforcement material. This was then coated with asphalt and hence got its name organic reinforcement. During 1970s, fiberglass made its entry as the roof enforcement material. It was more stable than the previously used organic reinforcement which would tear up or shrink down easily. This also improved fire resistance and hence there was an improvement from Class “C” to “A”. Fiberglass also tackled issues like decay and curling effectively.
Layers over the years
Shingles moved to single layers divided into two or more tabs, with a vast part exposed but the color options weren’t many. Today there are many options available from single layer shingles and no cuts to ones with many cuts. There are standard laminated shingles of varied thickness to open tab designer shingles. The added bonus is that the shingles that are available today are available in different colors and styles to match up to your home style.
Improvement in Wind Resistance
Shingles today can withstand strong wind uplift resistance. Earlier there was an oxidised asphalt sealant as a wind sealant formulation. But now the sealant strip is placed closer to the edge of the shingle. The decade spanning from 1990s to 2000s saw an upsurge in the temperature properties of the wind sealant strips. Polymer modified sealant adhesives were found to be high performers and increased the flexibility of the sealant and hence functionality of the roof.
The story of laminating adhesives
There is a vast improvement in it from standard oxidized adhesive to a polymer modified version. The oxidized sealant often slided when they weren’t fastened properly. The insurgence of polymer laminate adhesives came as a huge relief in terms of high temperature slide. Wind resistance is an important factor and therefore the shingles are fastened by the manufacturers still in the nail zone.
Discoloration
Crushed slate or oyster shells were used paving way for differently colored ceramic coated granules. Granule technology alleviates algal discoloration and heat build up problems in the attic. Special kinds of pigments are added to the ceramic coated granules now. These are the same pigments which are employed to reduce heat in tanks and military planes.
UV protection
In the beginning, slate or shells were used to save asphalt, but eventually all started looking similar. Fortunately the design experts of today have ensured that it doesn’t look monotonous.
As explained above, asphalt roofing has come a long way. There is no way you would be disappointed with this roofing type. Get in touch with a trusted roofing contractor in Maryland or the place you are living in for a high performance asphalt roof today.
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Author Bio:
Lindsey Hill is a blogger by interest and a contractor by profession. “Live, laugh, and let your style be expressed” is her motto for life.
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