INSTALLATION GUIDE & BEST PRACTICES How to Shingle a Roof: Step-by-Step Installation Guide Installing asphalt shingles requires precise sequencing, proper underlayment integration, code-compliant fastener placement, and rigorous adherence to manufacturer specifications. Learn the professional step-by-step installation workflow from deck preparation to ridge cap finishing. Installing overlapping courses of architectural shingles with pneumatic fastening and chalk … Read more
Roof Shingles
REPAIR & MAINTENANCE How to Replace Roof Shingles: Step-by-Step Repair Guide Replacing individual damaged, cracked, or wind-blown shingles is an effective way to restore watertight protection and prevent minor roof leaks from causing widespread wood rot. Learn how to remove damaged shingles safely without tearing surrounding tabs. When is an Isolated Shingle Repair Appropriate? Replacing … Read more
ROOF CLEANING & MAINTENANCE How to Clean Roof Shingles: Safe Moss & Algae Removal Black streaks, green moss, and lichen on asphalt shingles are caused by biological growth that feeds on moisture and limestone filler in shingles. Cleaning your roof using Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) approved methods restores appearance without damaging protective granules. ARMA-approved … Read more
HEAD-TO-HEAD SHINGLE COMPARISON Architectural vs. 3-Tab Shingles: Cost, Lifespan & Value Comparing architectural vs. 3-tab shingles is the most frequent decision facing homeowners replacing an asphalt roof. While 3-tab shingles cost 15% to 25% less upfront, architectural shingles last 30% to 50% longer, withstand double the wind velocity, and deliver vastly superior curb appeal. Close-up … Read more
COLOR PALETTES & EXTERIOR DESIGN Roof Shingle Colors: Popular Palettes & Siding Matching Selecting the right roof shingle color impacts both your home’s architectural curb appeal and its thermal energy efficiency. We break down the most popular asphalt shingle color families, siding and brick coordination rules, and cool-roof solar reflectance ratings. Color Sample Disclaimer Important: … Read more
FASTENER STANDARDS & CODES Roofing Nail Size for Shingles: Length, Gauge & Code Rules Under 2021 & 2024 IRC §R905.2.5 and ASTM F1667, fasteners for asphalt shingles must be minimum 12-gage [0.105-inch (3 mm)] shank, with a minimum 3/8-inch (9.5 mm) diameter head, made of corrosion-resistant galvanized steel, stainless steel, aluminum, or copper. Nails must … Read more
PRODUCT SELECTION & SPECIFICATIONS Architectural Shingles: Features, Pricing & Top Brands Architectural shingles (also referred to as laminated or dimensional shingles) represent the gold standard of North American residential roofing. Installed on over 80% of newly constructed homes, they provide heavy-duty dual-layer fiberglass construction, superior 110 to 130 mph wind warranties, rich dimensional shadow lines, … Read more
MATERIALS & PRODUCT COMPARISON Types of Roof Shingles: Comparison, Lifespans & Costs Selecting the right roof shingle involves balancing upfront material cost, architectural aesthetics, wind resistance, and expected lifespan. We compare the five primary shingle types used in North American residential construction. Figure: Layered roofing assembly from wooden decking to ridge cap. Shingle Type Cost … Read more
ARCHITECTURAL SHINGLE GUIDE Dimensional Shingles: Features, Costs & Lifespan Guide Dimensional shingles (also known as architectural or laminate shingles) are the most popular roofing material in North America, installed on over 80% of new residential roofs. Their multi-layer construction delivers superior durability, high wind ratings (up to 130 mph), and rich textured aesthetics. Dimensional Shingles … Read more
ECONOMY SHINGLE GUIDE 3-Tab Shingles: Costs, Durability, Pros & Cons 3-tab shingles are traditional single-layer asphalt strip shingles featuring three uniform tabs cut into each shingle piece. As the most economical roofing option on the market, 3-tab shingles cost $3.50 to $5.50 per square foot installed with an expected lifespan of 15 to 20 years. … Read more