Are Fiberglass Shingles a Good Choice for My New Roof?

Are Fiberglass Shingles a Good Choice for My New Roof

There are a variety of roof shingles that can protect your home with style, but how do you decide which is best?

Fiberglass shingles shield your home from a variety of climates while seamlessly matching your exterior design. Continue reading to learn more about Fiberglass Shingles.

Contact Sundown Exteriors today at (309) 275-6801 to receive a free estimate for installation from our licensed and insured contractors across Bloomington, Normal, and Lincoln, Illinois.

What Are Fiberglass Roof Shingles?

As the name suggests, fiberglass makes up the core of fiberglass shingles. Then, weather-proof asphalt and ceramic materials coat the outside to create a barrier from intense UV rays, rain, and hail. In combination, these materials form the ultimate durable shingle.

Fiberglass Roof Shingles

Asphalt fiberglass shingles are lighter than organic asphalt shingles. Plus, the non-porous surface means the shingles will not change shape over time or dry out under constant sun exposure.

The Difference Between Asphalt and Fiberglass Shingles

Traditional asphalt shingles use a paper base, making them less water-resistant and more fire hazardous. They are often cheaper and perform better in cold climates than fiberglass shingles.

Options for Matching Your Home Exterior

Fiberglass shingles come in a variety of styles and standard colors. There are two main categories you can choose from when selecting a roof to match your home exterior:

  • Architectural shingles: These are more expensive and are often used for high-end homes. Architectural shingles work together to construct an intricate geometric pattern, creating a visually appealing effect. Some designs can appear similar to organic tiles or wood but with a lower price tag.
  • 3-tab shingles: These basic strips of tabs create the traditional neat lines of shingles. These offer a flatter appearance and come at a cheaper price tag.

How Long Do Fiberglass Roofs Last in Different Climates?

The life expectancy of your roof depends on your weather. As a whole, fiberglass roofs last 15 to 20 years. Depending on your climate, your roof may fall on the short or long end of this range.

  • Warm climates: Typically, fiberglass roofs perform best in warmer temperatures. They are known to withstand high heat and long summers.
  • Cool climates: On the flip side, they do not last as long in icy areas. Often, ice can form inside small crevices and create cracks. Then, mold can grow and lead to discoloration when roofs stay wet for long periods beneath snow or ice.

You can opt for additional coatings to your fiberglass shingles to help them better withstand wet and cold climates.

Cost Considerations

Before making your final decision, consider the cost. Typically, prices for fiberglass shingle installment per square foot can vary based on a lot of factors like:

  • Shingle type
  • Shingle thickness
  • Premium design features
  • Warrantied installation
  • Cost of labor
  • Building permits and fees
  • Old roof removal

Pros and Cons of Fiberglass Roofing Shingles

Keeping all of these factors in mind, let’s go over the pros and cons of fiberglass roofs.

Pros:

  • Installation: Fiberglass shingles are easier to install since they are strong enough to walk on and are widely available.
  • Style: You can choose between many different styles and colors.
  • Durability: Fiberglass shingles combine strong materials to withstand weather conditions.
  • Investment: Fiberglass roofs can increase home values over time.

Cons:

  • Shorter life span: More expensive options, like slate tile, can last nearly triple the time.
  • Less durable in the cold: If you live in a harshly cold environment, you may often need to replace fiberglass shingles.
  • Non-organic: Fiberglass shingles are not organic like cedar or metal.

Get a Free Quote

There are tons of roofing options, making it hard to tell which is best for your home. Fiberglass shingles offer durable protection and come in a variety of style options.

Our team of licensed and insured contractors is prepared to evaluate your home. Contact Sundown Exteriors today at (309) 275-6801 to receive a free estimate on homes in Bloomington, Normal, or Lincoln, Illinois.