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Over the years two strip type asphalt shingles have dominated the market: the 3-Tab asphalt shingle and the Laminated asphalt shingle, sometimes called an Architectural asphalt shingle. There are several manufacturers of asphalt shingles, however there is not much difference in the makeup and to some extent the design from one manufacturer to another.
Asphalt shingles are generally made of a spun fiberglass mat but can be made of an organic or polyester type mat. Most are saturated with asphalt but can be saturated with modified bitumen. All are coated with ceramic granules. There are several manufacturers of asphalt shingles.
The 3-Tab asphalt shingle is generally 36" long by 12" wide with two cutouts in the lower portion of the shingle making it appear, once installed, as individual shingles. This type of strip shingle is the least expensive roofing material.
The Laminated asphalt shingle is made of two pieces laminated together. One piece is about 36" long by about 6". Another piece is laminated over it commonly called the dragon's tooth piece because it resembles squared off teeth. This type is more expensive and can be very expensive if marketed by the manufacturer as a 50 year or lifetime roof.
There are a few other styles of strip shingles now available which present a different appearance, sometimes called Architectural asphalt shingles. Some are a one-piece dragons tooth, others have a few layers of differently cut asphalt shingles all laminated together. These are the most expensivetypes of asphalt shingles.
The manufacturers market their shingles as 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, and even 50 year or Lifetime asphalt shingles as a way of differentiating several 3-Tab or Laminated and Architectural shingles they sell. They make it sound as if they will last that long. There may be differences in the amount of asphalt they use or they may have a thicker mat and look or they might be granulated on both sides and have more self-sealing asphalt for better wind resistance. But in the end, an asphalt shingle still is an asphalt shingle. No matter what little changes they make, they all look similar in that they all are covered with granules and their performance is similar.
When specifying Asphalt Shingles, make sure to state the Manufacturer, the number of years warranted, name of the shingle, color, and type. Example: Acme, 30 year, Wind Star, Sand Dune, 3-Tab Asphalt Shingle. (Made up shingle)
The life expectancy of any asphalt shingle varies in different climates. Around here in Colorado the life expectancy is at the most 20 years for 3-Tab shingles and maybe 25 years for Laminated shingles no matter what their marketing/warranty says. This is because the sun's intense ultraviolet rays bleach out the asphalt very rapidly compared to other parts of the country. So basically, a 30 year asphalt shingle will last about the same amount of time as a 50 year or Lifetime asphalt shingle roof. After all, they all are made of the same materials.
Concrete roof tile is made of sand, cement, and water. The exact materials vary somewhat with each manufacturer but basically contain Portland cement, blended hydraulic cements and fly ash, sand, and other aggregates. The products from most manufacturers look very similar in size and shapes and colors. There are several manufacturers of concrete tile.
Concrete roof tile has three main appearances based on their profiles:
Flat Profile concrete roof tile is flat - no curves when viewed from its butt.
Low Profile concrete roofing tile has small curves when viewed from its butt that have a rise to width ratio equal to 1:5 or less.
High Profile concrete tile has larger curves when viewed from its butt that have a rise to width ratio greater than 1:5.
Concrete tile is available in several different colors and a couple of textures. The surface texture of the tile can be smooth or rough. Most are color impregnated rather than just slurry coated.
Concrete tile is available in standard weight and lightweight tile. It is advisable to stay away from lightweight tile if you can. They are much weaker and hard to walk on without breaking some and are very susceptible to breakage from hail and heavy snow loads compared to standard weight Concrete tile. Lightweight tile costs more than standard weight. In my opinion it would be better money spent to use the extra money it would cost for lightweight tile for consultation fees of a structural engineer and use the standard weight tile.
When specifying Concrete Tile make sure to state the Manufacturer, Name of the tile, Color, and Type. Example: Acme, Moab, Sunset Orange, High Profile Tile. (Made up names for tile used in example)
The life expectancy for a concrete tile roof is marketed as a 50 year roof. However, the underlayment and batten system, even if good material and the proper installation procedure was used, will not last that long and will have to be replaced generally around 30 to 40 years. Many tile roof underlayments and battens must be replaced much sooner because of the inferior materials and installation procedures used - sometimes within the first five to eight years. The concrete tile also loses color and some surface texture after several years.
Tile roofs are prone to moisture penetration from wind driven rain or snow more than any other type of roofing product. That is why the underlayment, batten system, and flashing and how they are installed is so very important and is the key to how long a tile roof lasts. Most Concrete Tile roofs are only single ply roof systems where Asphalt Shingles are 2 plies, and Wood Shakes and Shingles are 2 and 3 plies. Almost everything gets in under a tile roof from rain and snow to leaves, dirt, and even small birds, animals and their nests and of course insects like wasps and bees. I found a snakeskin once that had been shed. However, a concrete tile roof can be a very good roof, but only if it and the underlayments, battens, and flashings are installed correctly.
If you are looking for the upscale design of a dimensional shingle, MDZ Roofing's DECRA Shingle is the choice for you. We offer a classic look that features a traditional distinctive style, reinforced with the strength and longevity of steel. Available in a variety of natural earth tone colors, these colors incorporate asubtle natural shadow, which enhances the richness and detail of the roof.
DECRA Shingle has the rich bold appearance of a heavy-weight architectural shingle at a fraction of the weight. With its increased edge thickness and deep distinctive shadow lines, DECRA Shingle provides greater dimensionality and a robust appearance. This profile adds wonderful appeal to traditionally styled homes and is ideal for those who prefer the look of heavy-cut shingles.
As the original stone coated steel roofing system, the DECRA product line represents a perfect blending ofover 50 years of research and practical experience.Offering the ultimate in performance and engineering design is what DECRA Roofing Systems are all about. Manufactured using the finest lightweight aluminum-zincalloy coated steel, covered with 3M ceramic coated stone granules and sealed with our exclusive polymer coating, DECRA Roofing Systems are the most beautiful, durable and trouble-free roofs available
Here at MDZ Roofing LTD, we’ve been installing Single-Ply Membrane Roofing for over 13 years. And in that time, one of the most common questions we’ve received from customers is, “What’s the difference between TPO and EPDM Single-Ply Membrane Roofing?”
Thermoplastic Polyolefin is a single-ply roofing membrane that is one of the fastest growing commercial roofing systems on the market. TPO roofing systems are made up of a single layer of synthetics and reinforcing scrim that can be used to cover flat roofs.
For an average 20,000 sq. foot commercial roof, it will usually cost between $1.90 and $3.50 per square foot in materials and labor to for a TPO membrane.
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer is a single-ply membrane that consists of a synthetic rubber compound that allows it to be flexible. EPDM has been used on commercial roofing facilities since the 1960s and is considered a time-tested option.
For an average 20,000 sq. foot commercial roof, it will usually cost between $1.80 and $3.50 per square foot in materials and labor to for an EPDM membrane.
Our line of DaVinci roofing products provides eco-friendly, slate and shake composite roofing shingles. The products have been inspired by the natural beauty of cedar shake and slate shingles, and can enhance the appearance of a home by adding an elegant, old-world architectural element. Due to the durability of the materials, the product comes standard with a 50-year warranty, and as a result is much more cost-effective than traditional alternatives.
The composite shake and slate shingles are available in 49 colors, which can be combined together in distinct patterns within one roof. For further customization, the width and displacement of individual shake and slate shingles can be customized, for a truly unique look to your home.
Please feel free to explore our composite shake and slate products, or contact us for a free, convenient demonstration.
Metal roofing is not only very attractive in the way it is designed; it is also a lifetime protection for your roof. Metal roofing is number one in shielding a home from roof leaks and high winds. Metal roofing also deters damage against fires and is actually considered a fire proofing method for your home.
There are many benefits to having a new metal roof installed on your home. If you love the idea of your investment being a lifetime guarantee then metal roofing is for you. We can answer all of your questions at MDZ Roofing Ltd and get you started today on the roof of a lifetime. Just give us a call or fill out the form for the estimates.