When you think about your roof, it’s easy to take it for granted. It’s just there, protecting you from the rain, sun, and wind, doing its job like a silent superhero. But have you ever stopped to wonder how asphalt shingles are made? At Roofing Angels, we geek out over these things so you don’t have to—but we thought it’d be fun to take you behind the scenes and show you exactly what goes into making those trusty shingles that top so many homes in Woodland Hills and beyond.
Let’s face it, when a roof starts to leak or shingles begin curling, most homeowners realize they know very little about what’s over their heads. Knowing what asphalt shingles are made of and how they’re crafted can actually help you make better decisions when it’s time for a repair or full roof replacement. And since Roofing Angels specializes in asphalt shingle roofing—from budget-friendly three-tab options to premium architectural styles—we thought we’d pull back the curtain on the process.
So, grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let’s dive into the surprisingly fascinating world of asphalt shingles!
Why Should You Care How Asphalt Shingles Are Made?
Before we jump into the nuts and bolts, you might be wondering—why does it matter how asphalt shingles are made?
Well, understanding what’s on your roof helps you make smarter choices when it comes to repairs, replacements, and even warranties. It also helps explain why some shingles last 20 years while others push past 50. At Roofing Angels, we believe an informed homeowner is a confident homeowner, and when you’re investing in something as important as your roof, a little knowledge goes a long way.
The Building Blocks: What Are Asphalt Shingles Made Of?
At their core, asphalt shingles might seem simple, but they’re the result of a carefully layered process that makes them tough enough to stand up to everything from blazing sun to pounding rain.
1. The Base Mat
Every asphalt shingle starts with a base mat that acts as its backbone. This mat is typically made from either fiberglass or organic materials (though fiberglass dominates the market today due to its strength and lightweight properties).
- Fiberglass Base: Composed of fine glass fibers bonded with resin, this mat is fire-resistant and less likely to warp over time.
- Organic Base: Made from wood pulp or recycled materials, this option is heavier and less common nowadays due to lower fire resistance.
At Roofing Angels, we mainly work with fiberglass-based shingles for their durability and enhanced performance, especially in the varied weather patterns we see around Woodland Hills.
2. Asphalt Coating
Once the base mat is ready, it’s coated with asphalt—the star ingredient that gives shingles their waterproofing superpowers. This asphalt is carefully refined to ensure it can withstand extreme temperatures and resist moisture penetration.
But it’s not just any asphalt; manufacturers often use oxidized asphalt, which has been heat-treated to make it thicker and more durable. Some premium shingles even use polymer-modified asphalt for added flexibility and impact resistance, perfect for areas prone to hail or extreme weather.
3. Mineral Granules
Ever notice the gritty texture on the surface of your shingles? Those are mineral granules, and they’re not just for looks. These tiny but mighty granules serve several important purposes:
- UV Protection: They shield the asphalt from harmful sun rays that can cause premature aging.
- Color and Style: Granules come in various colors, allowing homeowners to pick shingles that match their aesthetic.
- Fire Resistance: Certain granules are treated to improve fire resistance.
Roofing Angels offers a range of asphalt shingles with diverse granule finishes—from the classic three-tab to high-end architectural options—so you can get both style and substance.
4. Adhesive Strips
The final step involves adding heat-activated adhesive strips to the shingles. These strips ensure that when the shingles are installed and exposed to sunlight, they seal tightly together, creating a wind-resistant barrier that can withstand gusts of up to 130 mph, depending on the product.
From Factory to Roof: How Are Asphalt Shingles Made?
Now that you know what asphalt shingles are made of, let’s walk through how they’re manufactured.
Step 1: Preparing the Base
The process starts with massive rolls of fiberglass mats being unwound and fed into the production line. These mats are saturated in a coating of asphalt to make them waterproof and durable.
Step 2: Applying Asphalt
The asphalt is heated to around 400°F and applied to both sides of the mat, ensuring even coverage. This step is crucial—it’s what gives shingles their strength and weatherproof qualities.
Step 3: Adding Granules
While the asphalt is still hot, mineral granules are sprinkled onto the surface. A roller presses the granules firmly into place, locking them into the asphalt. The backside of the shingle often gets a light dusting of sand or talc to prevent the shingles from sticking together during transport.
Step 4: Cooling and Cutting
The freshly coated and granule-covered material passes through cooling rollers, bringing it to a manageable temperature. Then, it’s cut into individual shingles with precise dimensions, whether it’s the classic three-tab style or dimensional architectural shingles.
Step 5: Packaging and Shipping
Finally, the shingles are bundled and packaged, ready to be shipped to distributors—and eventually, to your rooftop.
Choosing the Right Asphalt Shingles for Your Home
Not all asphalt shingles are created equal. At Roofing Angels, we offer a variety of options to fit different budgets, styles, and performance needs.
Three-Tab Shingles
The most budget-friendly option, these shingles have a flat, uniform appearance and are lightweight. We offer Owens Corning’s Duration and Cool Line series for those who want an affordable yet reliable option.
Architectural (Dimensional) Shingles
These thicker shingles provide a multi-dimensional look and superior durability. Our GAF Dimensional and Presidential lines are popular choices for homeowners looking to upgrade both performance and curb appeal.
Premium (Luxury) Shingles
For those wanting the ultimate in style and longevity, we offer CertainTeed Architectural and Presidential shingles. These luxury shingles mimic the look of slate or wood shakes but with the durability of asphalt.
Impact-Resistant Shingles
Worried about hail or falling debris? Our Malarkey impact-resistant shingles provide extra toughness, making them a smart investment for long-term protection.
Not sure which asphalt shingle is right for your home? Our team at Roofing Angels can help—reach out today for expert advice and personalized recommendations!
Why Choose Roofing Angels for Your Asphalt Shingle Roofing?
At Roofing Angels, we’re not just about slapping shingles on your roof. We believe in doing things right—from helping you choose the best materials to ensuring every shingle is installed to perfection. Our certified status with GAF Master Elite and Owens Corning means we’re held to the highest standards, and we pass that quality along to you.
Plus, with our 10-year workmanship warranty and options for extended manufacturer warranties, you can feel confident that your new roof will stand the test of time.
Ready to Upgrade Your Roof?
If you’re now looking up at your roof with newfound appreciation (or concern), Roofing Angels is here to help. Whether you need a simple repair or a full asphalt shingle replacement, we’ve got the expertise, quality products, and customer-first approach to get it done right.
Call us today at (818) 918-8445 or email us at info@roofangelstag.wpenginepowered.com to schedule your free consultation. Let’s make sure your roof is as strong, stylish, and reliable as it should be!
