Roofing shingles: the different types

Organic asphalt shingles

The oldest of all models, organic shingles consist of a recycled paper reinforcement with a gravel fragment surface, which has been coated with hot asphalt under pressure. Its great flexibility makes it more resistant to tearing, facilitates installation at all temperatures and hides roofing imperfections well. Its heavy asphalt layer makes it more tenacious in the face of strong winds and wide temperature variations.

Fiberglass shingles

More recent and widespread, this shingle is designed with a fiberglass membrane that replaces the paper reinforcement of the organic model. Because its asphalt layer is thinner, it's lighter and less expensive, but the roofer must lay an asphalt-saturated felt underlay on the roof before installation. The regular model consists of three layers: the fiberglass reinforcement layer, the asphalt layer and the granule layer. Its construction makes fiberglass shingles more resistant to heat and less prone to lifting, making them more stable. It's also easy to install, but not in all seasons. Particularly in winter, fiberglass shingles can break during installation. What's more, its light weight reduces the sticky effect of adhesive strips.

Laminated or architectural shingles

This laminated shingle is thicker, containing one more layer than fiberglass shingles. As a result, it is also heavier, ensuring optimum adhesion of the adhesive strips and solid resistance to high winds and tab uplift. It is often recommended for steeply pitched roofs. It is available in finishes that can imitate slate or natural wood, and in a multitude of color shades. It is more expensive, but its superior quality comes with a longer service life guarantee.

Choosing your shingle

There are a number of important criteria to take into account when choosing your shingles, and you should consult a professional roofer at [Lien Blogue 1]. In particular, you need to consider the slope of your roof, the location of your property and the climatic conditions to which it is exposed, the season of installation, the roofing budget and the various warranties offered. The professionals at Toitures Martin Lafleur will be able to advise you on the choice of an asphalt shingle model that's right for your roof and your environment. You won't be disappointed: we always strive to offer you the best durability and protection.