Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most widely used roofing material in Vancouver, British Columbia.
Nowadays, most asphalt shingles are made from a fiberglass base combined with asphalt and
granules. Their advantages include excellent stability, resistance to deformation and moisture,
high-temperature tolerance, and a high fire-resistance rating.
The quality of asphalt shingles depends on factors such as their thickness, UV resistance, algae
resistance, wind resistance, hail penetration resistance, and protection against ice damming. The
lifespan of asphalt shingles depends on the manufacturer’s quality and the roofing contractor’s
installation practices. Factors such as roof pitch, sun exposure, environmental conditions,
installation methods, weather, and regular maintenance all contribute to the difference between
the manufacturer’s estimated lifespan and the actual performance.
Asphalt shingles can generally be divided into three categories:
3-Tab Shingles
- Manufacturer’s Estimated Lifespan: 25 years
- Actual Lifespan: Approximately 15–20 years
- These are single-layer shingles with the lower part of each shingle cut into two
slots, forming three uniform tabs. This design gives the product its name.
Architectural Shingles
- Manufacturer’s Estimated Lifespan: 30–40 years
- Actual Lifespan: Approximately 20–30 years
- These shingles have a multi-layered structure, distinct from the single-layer 3-tab
shingles. Each layer is made with a woven fiberglass mat core, enveloped by
weather-grade asphalt, and topped with reflective granules.
Premium Designer Shingles
- Manufacturer’s Estimated Lifespan: Over 50 years
- Actual Lifespan: Approximately 30–40 years
- These high-end shingles are structurally similar to architectural shingles but are
more advanced. They feature a minimum of three or more layers of fiberglass mat
core, offering superior durability and aesthetic appeal.
Regular maintenance and proper installation are critical for maximizing the lifespan and
performance of asphalt shingles.
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