Debunking 4 Popular Misconceptions about Asphalt Shingle Roofing

Without a doubt, asphalt shingles are one of the widely used roofing materials in many countries. But there are still continuous misconceptions about it until now, and some of them are sufficiently believable to restrain property owners from taking advantage of this roof type. In this article, we will be debunking a few of the most popular misconceptions that people know when it comes to asphalt shingle roof Lubbock.  

Roofs with dark colors can increase your cooling bills 

Roofs with light colors are naturally reflective, which can help minimize radiant heat that’s absorbed through your roof. Because of that, “cool roofs” that you can usually see on commercial roofing systems are white-colored. This has possibly caused people to believe that the total opposite of this bright color is true—that a dark roof gets to absorb heat similar to a sponge. 

However, dark-colored roofs retain radiant heat, but not too much. In fact, with proper ventilation and insulation, you can have a cool dark-colored roof just like a light-colored roof can do.  

Asphalt shingles have asbestos 

Asphalt shingles contained asbestos. However, this only happened back then until it was phased out in the 1960s due to the health risks of asbestos that they can provide to homeowners. But today, you can be rest assured to know that modern asphalt shingles are manufactured without asbestos content. But you should consider reaching out to your remodeling or roofing contractor and let them know once your house was constructed between the 1950s-1980s as some of the old materials in your house will be required to get tested for asbestos content.  

Asphalt shingles lose their granules after being installed 

An asphalt shingle is coated with a granule layer, which can help the asphalt layer from the UV rays of the sun. Moreover, it gives color to asphalt shingles and some features like solar reflectivity. While being manufactured, these granules are pressed into the asphalt layer. Thus, it’s just normal to observe some loose granules from time to time. Such loose granules can be washed off by rain. However, you shouldn’t worry because it does not mean that there’s granule loss happening.  

The adhesive of asphalt shingle cures right away 

Curing refers to a chemical process where the adhesive reaches its ultimate strength and properties. Other adhesives can immediately be cured while some can be fully cured with some assistance from solar heat like those utilized on asphalt shingles. 

Asphalt shingles look cheap  

Nowadays, asphalt shingles come in a wide range of options in terms of thickness, textures, and colors. Because of this, a lot of design possibilities are made it easier for homeowners to beautifully match their new roof with the existing exterior palette and style of your home. Even others can mimic authentic cedar slate and shakes—a great feature if you’re planning to maintain the architectural accuracy of your home.  

If you’re considering installing any roof type, such as asphalt shingle roof, metal roof, don’t hesitate to contact your trusted roofer today.