If you are in the market for a new roof in Minneapolis, MN, then you have a few things to consider before you can make the right decision. The first thing to realize is that roofing is a system that includes the shingles, the gutters, the flashing, vents, soffits and facia boards. These all work together to provide everything your home needs to protect you inside, manage the weather outside, and help prevent the rest of your house from premature aging.
Most people want to jump right in and start picking out the shingles. They often gravitate towards something that appeals to them aesthetically, but with little knowledge about how these materials actually work. Knowing your materials should also be a big part of the decision making process.
Asphalt shingles are the most popular because they seem to work well in every environment, and they come is so many colors that there seems to be something for everyone. However, most people don’t realize that asphalt shingles can be made from organic materials, or fiberglass. Organic shingles consist of a cellulose-fiber (i.e., wood) base that is saturated with asphalt and then coated with colored mineral granules. Fiberglass shingles consist of a fiberglass mat, top-and-bottom layers of asphalt, also with mineral granules. The fiberglass shingles are the predominant shingle in the market today simply because they are so much more fire-resistant.
These asphalt shingles are rated A, B, and C according to their fire safety, with class A fiberglass asphalt leading the way. Organic shingles are rated class C because of their cellulose base. Nonetheless, their reinforcing properties have little to do with their appearance and they cost about the same, so it is easy to see why fiberglass asphalt shingles are the number one seller.
If you are in the market for a new roof, make sure you speak with an expert who will be able to explain all the nuances of your new roofing materials. You will have it for at least 20 years, so be sure you are comfortable with what you are buying, and who installs it for you. Call us first; we are Iron River Construction, serving Minneapolis & St. Paul for over 15 years. 952-442-1762
