Asphalt shingles are the most common type of roofing material in the United States. They’re durable, affordable, and easy to work with, which makes them a good choice for most homeowners.
What Is an Asphalt Shingle?
Before we dive into why asphalt shingles are so popular, let’s get a quick overview of what they are and what they’re made of. They are typically made from a mixture of asphalt and sand or other aggregates, along with mineral granules like zinc oxide or iron oxide (commonly known as rust). The binding agent is usually bitumen (a liquid made from petroleum).
Asphalt Shingles vs. Composition Shingles
Asphalt shingles have been around for about 100 years longer than composition shingles, which were first introduced in the 1960s. Composition shingles contain fiberglass and plastic resins as well as asphalt binding agents; they’re typically lighter and more flexible than traditional asphalt shingles.