Asphalt vs Fiberglass Shingles for Your IL Home – Which Roof to Choose?
Well, are fiberglass shingles better than asphalt? What’s the difference between fiberglass and asphalt shingles? You are probably interested in the answers to these questions and do not understand how to choose among a pile of materials for roof replacement.
It is very important to choose the right type of shingle roof. It affects the durability, appearance, and value of your home in Chicago. To find out which shingles are the better option for you, read on. We will analyze all the asphalt vs fiberglass shingles pros and cons.
Two Types of Shingles in Chicago: Fiberglass Shingles Versus Asphalt Shingles
When choosing between fiberglass and asphalt shingles for homes in Chicago Community Areas, it’s important to consider factors.
Do asphalt shingles have fiberglass in them? Organic asphalt shingles consist of an organic base (usually paper or cellulose) that is soaked with bitumen and covered with chemical granules. It is thicker and heavier than fiberglass, so it has better resistance to wind and cold. However, due to their ability to absorb moisture, these shingles can deform and be prone to mold.
Fiberglass roofing has a fiberglass base that is covered with asphalt and mineral granules. This roofing material is less in weight, more resistant to fire, and provides better heat and water resistance. Nonetheless, it can be less strong when it comes to windstorms and can be covered with algae. For proper installation and to ensure durability, consider hiring roofer installers near me who have experience with fiberglass roofing.
Excellence is Our Culture
Durability and Lifespan – Asphalt vs Fiberglass Shingles
The lifespan of organic asphalt shingles and fiberglass shingles depends on weather conditions, especially in Chicago. In colder climates, asphalt roofing can become brittle, while fiberglass roofing can be more flexible. In warmer climates, asphalt roofs can soften and lose their granules, while fiberglass roofs retain their integrity.
Homeowners in Chicago Areas often opt for fiberglass shingles due to their superior fire resistance and longer lifespan. It is more resistant to wind and can last up to 50 years. Traditional asphalt shingles can last from 15 to 30 years.
Factors that affect the durability of a roof include the quality of installation, maintenance, and local weather conditions. Most roofing manufacturers provide warranties for their products ranging from 15 to 30 years.
If you are looking for a very durable roof in Chicago, choose a fiberglass roof. However, some sources claim that asphalt roofing can be more durable due to its higher asphalt content.
Whether you need a simple repair or a complete replacement, our expert team in Chicago is here to help.
Fire and Weather Resistance – Organic Asphalt Shingles vs Fiberglass Shingle Roof
The IL climate demands durable roofing materials. Fiberglass roofing is more fire-resistant than asphalt roofing. They are class A in fire safety, which means that they can withstand strong fire and do not allow flames to spread across the roof. In fact, this is very important for regions where there is a risk of fire or strict fire safety requirements, so both asphalt and fiberglass roof shingles are a must-have in such cases.
In addition to fire resistance, fiberglass roofing is also resistant to wind. It can withstand strong gusts without tearing or detaching from the roof. Asphalt roofing is also weather-resistant. They remain flexible in the cold and are resistant to rain and snow.
Both fiberglass shingles and asphalt shingles in Chicago Areas come with high levels of fire resistance. Also, these materials are suitable for regions exposed to wildfires.
Fiberglass Shingles vs Asphalt Cost and Installation
Fiberglass shingles are the most obvious choice when searching for roofing materials near me. Although they may have a higher initial cost than asphalt shingles. Let’s take a look at the comparative table:
For residents in the Chicago Metropolitan Area, fiberglass shingles offer durability against strong winds and extreme weather conditions, making them a solid long-term investment.
Explore our collection of informative and engaging videos on roof repair.
Environmental Impact – Asphalt or Fiberglass Shingles?
In the Chicago suburbs, where climate conditions vary, fiberglass shingles protect against moisture and mold. Let’s take a look at the basic facts about the environmental friendliness of asphalt fiberglass shingles roof:
- Less asphalt is needed to produce glass tiles, which means less oil is used. Such technologies enable the manufacturers to save on nonrenewable resources while at the same time minimizing their carbon emissions.
- The production of asphalt is a very energy-intensive process that results in very high emissions of greenhouse gasses. Fiberglass roof tiles consume less asphalt as compared to shingles hence the amount of emissions produced is low.
- Fiberglass shingles are lighter. Its lighter weight makes it easier to transport and install and reduces fuel consumption and related emissions.
Both fiberglass asphalt roofing shingles can be recycled. Asphalt roofing can be used for road construction, while fiberglass roofing can be recycled into new materials.
Fiberglass roofing is more energy efficient. Some models have a coating surface that mirrors the sun’s rays to minimize its absorption thus lowering the cost of cooling the home. Generally speaking, fiberglass roofing is more environmentally friendly than organic ones, yet it does possess certain environmental effects.
Pros and Cons of Asphalt and Fiberglass Shingles
While asphalt shingles are more affordable for many Chicago suburbs, fiberglass shingles are becoming increasingly popular due to their lower maintenance needs. Let’s look at the pros and cons together:
Asphalt Shingle Roof
Advantages:
- Affordability – Asphalt roofing is generally more affordable.
- Variety of styles – Available in a wide range of colors and styles, so you can easily find a roofing option to match any home design.
- Resistance to extreme weather conditions – Asphalt roofing resists strong winds and other adverse weather conditions.
Disadvantages:
- Short service life – Compared to fiberglass roofing, asphalt roofing has a shorter service life.
- Exposure to damage – It can be damaged by hailstones, tree branches, and other external influences.
- Moisture absorption – Asphalt has the ability to absorb moisture, which can lead to the development of mold, moss, and corrosion of fasteners.
Fiberglass Shingle Roof for Chicago's home
Advantages:
- Durability of fiberglass shingles – It has a much longer service life compared to asphalt roofing.
- Resistance to moisture and mold – Fiberglass roofing is less prone to moisture absorption.
- Fire resistance – It has a high level of fire resistance, so it is a completely safe choice for homes.
- Ease of installation – Fiberglass roofing is easier to install than asphalt.
Disadvantages:
- Higher cost – Asphalt shingles are less expensive than fiberglass shingles.
- Fragility in extreme cold – In very cold climates, fiberglass roofing can become more brittle.
Many homeowners seek comprehensive roof services close to me, offering solutions like impact-resistant shingles for longer durability and weather protection.
Conclusion – Which Roof is the Best for Your Home?
Choosing between fiberglass and asphalt roofing materials? So, Illinois has a diverse climate, but both types of roofing can be suitable. Remember that fiberglass roofing may be a slightly better choice due to its resistance to heat and humidity.
On the other hand, asphalt roofing close to me is more affordable, while fiberglass roofing is more durable and requires less maintenance. Take into account your budget and aesthetic preferences, and it’s best to contact us for a professional roof inspection. Our experts near you will help you choose the best option for your home!
FAQ
Are fiberglass shingles worth the higher initial cost?
Fiberglass shingles are more expensive in the beginning. But this material can be more profitable in the long run. Fiberglass shingles last longer, require fewer repairs, and usually resist fire and weather better. This means you can save money on roof repairs and replacements in the future.
Can I install fiberglass shingles in cold climates?
Fiberglass shingles can be more fragile in very cold weather. If you live in a region with harsh winters, it is better to consult a specialist who will select the best roofing option for your climate conditions. There may be special types of fiberglass asphalt shingles designed for cold climates.
Which shingles offer better fire resistance?
Fiberglass shingles generally have better fire resistance than organic shingles. This is due to their composition, which is less prone to combustion. If fires are often in your city, then fiberglass tiles are right for you.
How do I maintain asphalt shingles to prevent warping?
In order to avoid deformation of the shingles, one should check the roof from time to time for any damages and fix it as soon as possible, the roof should be washed of leaves, moss, and other materials. There is also the need to control the amount of moisture that is trapped within the under-roof space.
What are the environmental benefits of choosing fiberglass shingles?
Fiberglass roof shingles are considered to be more environmentally friendly than traditional asphalt ones. It is less toxic and can be recycled. The emission of hazardous substances content in this is comparatively low and they are more durable, thus minimizing waste from construction works.
