Do you know what goes into making the shingles that protect your home? It’s no secret that asphalt shingles are one of the most popular roofing materials in Calgary, but many homeowners don’t realize just how much thought and engineering go into creating these durable, weather-resistant products. Understanding how asphalt shingles are made can give you valuable insight into why they’re such a reliable choice—especially when it comes to withstanding Calgary’s harsh winters, heavy winds, and sudden hailstorms.
In this blog, we’ll break down the fascinating process behind asphalt shingle production, explore the different types of asphalt shingles available, and explain how Mountaintop Roofing Inc. can help you choose the perfect option for your home. Whether you’re considering a new roof or just curious about what’s over your head, this guide will give you all the answers.
Understanding the Basics: Why Asphalt Shingles Are So Popular
Before we dive into the manufacturing process, it’s worth understanding why asphalt shingles have become the go-to roofing material for so many homeowners in Calgary.
Asphalt shingles strike the perfect balance between affordability and durability. In a city like Calgary, where weather can be unpredictable—from heavy snowfalls in winter to hailstorms in summer—homeowners need a roofing material that can handle it all without breaking the bank. Asphalt shingles are designed to provide solid protection against these elements while still being cost-effective.
Beyond their durability, asphalt shingles also offer aesthetic versatility. Available in a wide range of colors, textures, and styles, they give homeowners the flexibility to choose a look that complements their home’s architecture. Whether you prefer a classic, clean design or something that mimics the natural texture of slate or wood shakes, there’s an asphalt shingle to suit your taste.
How Asphalt Shingles Are Made
So, how do we go from raw materials to the finished shingles that end up on your roof? The process of making asphalt shingles is both intricate and fascinating, combining strength, waterproofing, and style in one durable product.
The Base Mat: The Shingle’s Backbone
The journey begins with the creation of the base mat, which serves as the structural foundation of the shingle. This mat is typically made from fiberglass, though organic materials like cellulose were used in the past. Fiberglass mats have become the industry standard because they offer enhanced durability, are lightweight, and provide excellent fire resistance—an essential feature in any climate, including Calgary’s.
The fiberglass mat is created by weaving glass fibers together into a thin, strong sheet. This sheet gives the shingle its shape and flexibility, allowing it to withstand the elements without cracking or breaking. The strength of the base mat plays a crucial role in how well the finished shingle will perform on your roof, particularly when facing Calgary’s heavy snowfalls and high winds.
Saturating with Asphalt: The Waterproofing Layer
Next, the fiberglass mat is saturated with a refined form of asphalt. This step is key to making the shingle waterproof. The asphalt is heated to a high temperature until it reaches a liquid state, allowing it to thoroughly saturate the mat. This creates a barrier that prevents water from seeping through the shingle and into your home.
In Calgary’s climate, where snow, ice, and rain are regular occurrences, this waterproofing layer is essential. It ensures that your roof can handle the freeze-thaw cycles that come with the seasons, reducing the risk of leaks and water damage.
Adding Mineral Granules: Strength and Style
While the asphalt is still hot, mineral granules are embedded into the surface of the shingle. These granules serve multiple purposes. First and foremost, they protect the asphalt from harmful UV rays, which can cause the material to dry out and become brittle over time. The granules also add color and texture to the shingle, giving homeowners a range of options to match their home’s aesthetic.
In addition to UV protection and visual appeal, the granules enhance the shingle’s fire resistance and improve its durability against impact. This is especially important in Calgary, where hailstorms can strike unexpectedly. Impact-resistant shingles, which feature specially designed granules and reinforced layers, offer extra protection against such weather events.
Cooling, Cutting, and Sealing
After the granules are applied, the shingles go through a cooling process that hardens the asphalt. Once cooled, adhesive strips are applied to each shingle. These strips are heat-activated during installation, helping the shingles seal together and form a watertight, wind-resistant barrier on your roof.
Finally, the continuous sheet of shingles is cut into individual pieces and packaged for distribution. By the time they reach your home, they’re ready to provide years of reliable protection.
Types of Asphalt Shingles Available in Calgary
Now that you understand how they are made, let’s take a look at the different types of asphalt shingles available and how to choose the right one for your Calgary home.
Three-Tab Asphalt Shingles
Three-tab shingles are the most basic and economical option. They have a flat, uniform appearance, with cutouts or “tabs” that create a simple, repetitive pattern. While they are lightweight and budget-friendly, three-tab shingles offer less durability compared to other options. In Calgary’s climate, where weather conditions can be harsh, three-tab shingles may not always provide the level of protection homeowners need. However, they remain a viable choice for those on a tight budget or for less exposed areas like sheds or garages.
Architectural (Dimensional) Asphalt Shingles
Architectural shingles, also known as dimensional shingles, are a step up from the three-tab variety. They feature multiple layers of material, giving them a thicker, more textured appearance. This layered design not only enhances their visual appeal—often mimicking the look of wood shakes—but also makes them more durable and longer-lasting.
For Calgary homeowners, architectural shingles are an excellent choice due to their improved resistance to high winds and hail. They typically last longer than three-tab shingles and offer better overall performance, making them a popular option for residential roofing projects.
Premium (Luxury) Asphalt Shingles
Premium asphalt shingles are the top-tier option, offering the highest level of durability, style, and performance. Designed to replicate the appearance of natural slate or cedar shakes, premium shingles add a sophisticated touch to any home. But their appeal isn’t just about looks—they’re also built to withstand extreme weather conditions.
For Calgary homeowners who want the best in both aesthetics and protection, premium shingles provide a long-lasting solution. While they come at a higher upfront cost, their durability and extended warranties make them a worthwhile investment.
Impact-Resistant (IR) Asphalt Shingles
In areas prone to hailstorms, like Calgary, Impact-Resistant (IR) shingles are an increasingly popular choice. These shingles are specially designed to absorb and deflect the force of hail and debris, significantly reducing the risk of damage. They are often made with reinforced layers and stronger adhesive bonds, helping them withstand impacts that would damage standard shingles.
Many insurance companies offer discounts to homeowners who install IR shingles, making them not only a practical but also a cost-effective option in the long run.
How Mountaintop Roofing Inc. Helps You Make the Right Choice
Choosing the right asphalt shingles isn’t just about picking a color or style—it’s about finding a product that meets your home’s needs and can stand up to Calgary’s unique climate challenges.
At Mountaintop Roofing Inc., we guide you through every step of the process:
- Personalized Consultations: We help you navigate the wide range of shingle options, focusing on what’s best for your home and budget.
- Expert Installation: Our experienced team ensures your roof is installed with precision and care, following industry best practices.
- 5th Year Roof Tune-Up: We offer a full roof inspection five years after installation to make sure your roof is still performing at its best.
Our deep knowledge of how asphalt shingles are made and our hands-on experience with different types of asphalt shingles means you’ll get the best advice and service possible.
Ready to Upgrade Your Roof? Contact Mountaintop Roofing Inc. Today!
Understanding how asphalt shingles are made and the various types of asphalt shingles available gives you the knowledge to make informed decisions about your home’s roof. If you’re considering a roof replacement or need guidance on choosing the right shingles for your Calgary home, Mountaintop Roofing Inc. is here to help.
Give us a call at (587) 839-9239 or email info@mountaintoproofing.ca to schedule your free estimate today. Let’s work together to protect your home with a durable, weather-resistant roof that stands the test of time.
