Fiberglass Dimensional Shingles: What to Know

What are fiberglass dimensional shingles - and are they the same as the asphalt type? Whether you're ready to replace your roof or you just want to know more about the materials on top of your house, take a look at these fiberglass shingle questions.

Why Are Fiberglass and Asphalt Used Interchangeably?
You've probably heard of both fiberglass shingles and asphalt shingles. You've also heard the terms fiberglass and asphalt shingles used interchangeably. But are these two roofing material terms really the same? The answer to this question is yes - and no.

Two primary types of asphalt shingles exist: fiberglass and organic mat-based. This means fiberglass shingles are technically also asphalt shingles. But not all asphalt shingles are made from fiberglass. If your home has an asphalt shingle roof or you want to replace the roof with this material, you need to specify whether you want fiberglass or the organic mat-based option.

How Much Asphalt Do Fiberglass Shingles Contain?
One of the main differences between fiberglass and organic mat shingles is the asphalt content. Organic mat shingles contain a significantly higher proportion of asphalt in comparison to fiberglass dimensional products. Instead of a cellulose or organic material mat, fiberglass shingles (as the name implies) are made from a fiberglass mat. This mat is embedded in and covered with asphalt granules to increase durability.

Why Choose Fiberglass Shingles?
Asphalt shingles are popular with homeowners. If you're not sure which type of asphalt shingle to choose, talk to a roofing contractor about your options. According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI), asphalt shingles can last for between 20 and 30 years (depending on the type of shingle). Most modern constructions use fiberglass shingles instead of the organic-mat version.

Fiberglass materials can resist heat and humidity better than organic-mat types. The higher heat and humidity resistance makes fiberglass a better choice for hot, damp, or rainy areas. These shingles are less likely to wrap or fail prematurely due to high temperatures or excessive moisture or rain. Along with heat and humidity resistance, these durable shingles are also lighter weight and thinner than the organic mat variety.

Why Choose Dimensional Shingles?
The fiberglass or organic content isn't the only choice you have. Along with the overall material makeup, asphalt shingles are available in three-tab or dimensional options. Three-tab shingles don't have the same expected lifespan as dimensional or architectural shingles.

Again, asphalt shingles have a lifespan that ranges from 20 to 30 years. While three-tab shingles may last for 20 years, dimensional or architectural products have a higher average lifespan of 30 years, according to InterNACHI.

Dimensional shingles are premium products with multiple layers of tabs. This creates dimension or texture within each shingle. Along with a luxe textured look, dimensional shingles are made from multiple layers sealed with asphalt. This creates a strong bond and adds to overall durability.

What Do Fiberglass Shingles Look Like?
Chances are you've seen fiberglass dimensional shingles on more than a few homes. Again, fiberglass dimensional shingles may have a rich texture. The dimensional aspect of the shingle creates a distinctive design and can even (depending on the product) look like pricey slate or wood shingles.

These popular picks are also available in a variety of colors. This allows you to select a hue that matches your home's existing exterior color scheme or you can create a new palette.

Is Fiberglass Energy-Efficient?
Your roof absorbs heat and allows heated or cooled air out. This makes it important to choose the right material for your home's energy efficiency needs. A cool roof is one way to reduce overall energy usage. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a cool roof can stay 50 degrees Fahrenheit cooler than a regular roof in the summertime.

Along with other materials, you can create a cool roof with overlapping panels of fiberglass asphalt shingles. A specialized coating and the color choice can help to create a cool roof that saves energy. This type of roof requires professional, specialized installation.

Do you want a new fiberglass roof? Contact Cal Roofing Systems Inc. for more information.