Are you familiar with laminated roof shingles, also called architectural shingles? Laminated asphalt shingles entered the American roofing market more than 40 years ago, but this distinctive yet inexpensive roofing material has risen steadily in popularity in the last fifteen years among homeowners.
Despite being an economical roofing choice, the installation process for dimensional laminated shingles is complex and requires a contractor with professional experience and a skilled, steady hand.
Our team of roofing contractors at Sundown Exteriors in Bloomington, IL, is the preferred choice for Central Illinois homeowners. We have extensive experience installing all types of roofing, including asphalt, laminated, or composition shingles as well as metal and slate roofing.
Thinking about installing laminated shingles on your roof? Call Sundown Exteriors today at (309) 275-6801 in Bloomington, IL, for a free quote! As a nationally recognized and fully licensed home improvement contractor, we serve customers in and around Bloomington, Normal, and Lincoln, Illinois.
What Are Laminated Shingles?
Laminated shingles, also known as architectural roof shingles or three-dimensional shingles, are thick, double-layered fiberglass roofing shingles that offer a bold and visually striking aesthetic to your home’s roof.
Homeowners love the look of architectural shingles, as they emulate the appearance of more expensive roofing materials, like slate or cedar, for a fraction of the cost. As such, they’re one of the most popular types of roofing on the market today.
Essentially, a laminated shingle is a stronger, denser version of a 3-tab asphalt shingle. It has multiple layers, uses a thicker and heavier fiberglass base mat, and the surface contains ceramic-coated minerals encased in water-resistant, high-quality asphalt.
The installer must attach and secure laminated shingles one by one, which is time-consuming and difficult but allows for greater flexibility and customization in placement and design. If you already have one layer of roofing shingles and are considering two layers of shingles in an effort save on removal costs, we suggest you reconsider. A single layer of laminated shingles will last longer and have less problems than two layers of shingles.
Benefits of Using Laminated Asphalt Shingles on Your Roof
While laminated asphalt shingles are similar to traditional 3-tab asphalt shingles, they provide enhanced benefits for homeowners. Read on to learn why you should choose architectural roof shingles for your home.
1. They Are Strong and Durable
One of the primary benefits of laminated composition shingles is their durability, as they last anywhere from 30 to 50 years with proper maintenance.
The boost in longevity is due to the shingle’s unique three-dimensional shape and thicker material layers, which allow for extra strength and security without the need for additional roof support. Plus, the dense fiberglass base mat resists moisture and warping, which is a common problem with 3-tab asphalt shingles.
2. They Exhibit Superior Weather Resistance
Here in Central Illinois, we’re subject to extreme weather conditions all year round. However, it’s the snow, ice, hail, and high winds that can do the most damage to your home’s roof.
Laminated shingles have a much higher wind resistance than traditional 3-tab shingles and can withstand up to 130-mph winds without budging. In addition, the extra thickness and density of architectural shingles provide increased protection from heavy snow loads, which can be devastating to a weak or vulnerable roof.
3. They Feature Unlimited Versatility in Design
Another great advantage of choosing three-dimensional shingles for your home’s roof is the greater versatility in design. This type of shingle has virtually endless customization options, offering total freedom for homeowners to choose their preferred look and style. You can select from a vast selection of colors and textures to complement your home’s exterior design scheme or even evoke the appearance of another roofing type.
In addition, laminated shingles are a great way to accent roofs with dormers, turrets, steep slopes, or unusual rooflines. Since the installation process occurs one by one, it allows for unique designs and patterns that can showcase your home’s best features. Plus, they are ideal for homes with challenging, complex, or difficult roof designs that aren’t suitable for other types of traditional shingles.
The Trusted Choice for Roofing in Central Illinois
Do you need help determining the type of shingles that will enhance and protect your home? Laminated shingles are strong, durable, and will last for decades with the right maintenance. At Sundown Exteriors, we provide Bloomington, Normal, Lincoln, and the surrounding communities, with quality home improvement services, including laminate roofing installation, repair, and replacement.
Call us at Sundown Exteriors today at (309) 275-6801 to request your free estimate and learn more about why laminated shingles are the right choice for your home.