Enjoy the Benefits of Asphalt Shingles on Your Home

Red brick shingles Photo by GAF

Asphalt shingles, also known as composition shingles, are a trusted roofing material used on homes throughout the San Gabriel Valley—from Alhambra to Azusa and every city in between.

Thomas Garvey is a local roofing contractor with an office in Monrovia and he’s been servicing homes throughout the valley for over thirty years. He offers free estimates for roof repairs and installs.

He’s seen changes for the better in roofing technology, including in the use and manufacturing of asphalt shingles. Here’s why asphalt shingles are among the best roofing materials for many homes:

They’re economical and work with a variety of budgets
They’re durable and made to last for decades (up to 50 years or longer)
Asphalt shingles are attractive and provide wonderful curb appeal

What are asphalt shingles?

Asphalt shingles are made from layers of asphalt so the name is deserved. They’ve been a go-to solution for homeowners installing new roofs for many decades.

Asphalt became popular in the early 20^th century since it was an effective and economical fire retardant, according to Asphalt magazine. Improvements were continually made and by 1953, the first self-sealing shingles were used and multi-layer shingles were introduced in the 1970s.

The largest shingle makers in the U.S., GAF (which has a plant in Fontana) and CertainTeed, have perfected the look and styles of asphalt shingles.

How are asphalt shingles made?

Fiberglass is used throughout the asphalt shingles and UV granules on top and throughout the layers reflect the sun’s rays so that the shingles only absorb a minimum amount of heat.

Shingle technology keeps getting better.

The new Timberline HDZ shingle has layers that are fused together. It’s a lifetime product and includes an asphalt-to-asphalt bond to prevent loss when those Santa Ana winds sweep in from the desert or other gusts blow through the canyons.

Easy to repair

Many customers want to know if their roof needs replaced or if repairs are possible. Roofs that were installed 10 to 20 years ago may be in good shape overall, but have ridge caps that have worked loose and blown away. It’s easy to repair and replace missing ridge caps. In some cases, where water has leaked into one specific area of the roof, a roof that uses asphalt shingles can be repaired.

Colors come in such a wide variety that they can be matched.

The decking may need replaced, too.

It will take a special trip to know if an asphalt shingle roof can be repaired or if a new roof must be installed. All roofing estimates are free.

Do asphalt shingles absorb the sun’s rays?

The sun damages roofs more than rain, especially around Pasadena and throughout the San Gabriel Valley. The City of Industry’s website describes the local climate and weather quite well, “The sun shines about 75 percent of daytime hours at the city’s Civic Center.”

Asphalt shingles may seem Old School, but they’re made with enough protection to ward off the sun’s strongest UV rays.

Asphalt shingles can be part of an energy efficient roofing system when installed with the proper decking, underlayment and attic ventilation.

Thomas Garvey says he can show homeowners how an asphalt shingle roof will be just as energy efficient, or more, than a solar roof, while costing about a third less to install.

Do asphalt shingles last?

Most shingle roofs are made to last at least 30 years while the multi-layered architectural shingles that are promoted to last 50 years will indeed last that long.

Proper installation is key. This includes the right decking, underlayment that reflects heat, and a ventilation system so hot air doesn’t build up in the attic.

Why should I choose asphalt shingles?

Thomas Garvey will gladly show you reasons to choose asphalt, tile or other type of roofing material. It depends on the look you want along with costs and how much weight your home can bear.

Remember wood shake roofs on ranch-style homes around Arcadia and other cities? Architectural shingles can have a specific type of look with an array of pleasing colors while meeting current fire codes.

Homeowners have wonderful roofing solutions available and can have peace of mind with Garvey Roofing.

The company holds four roofing licenses plus guarantees both labor and materials.

Call Thomas for a roofing consultation and free estimate: (626) 358-9208.