Fiberglass Shingles - Cheap Roofing Materials

Fiber glass shingles are not new to the roofing industry. It had been in use as an insulating material since the 1930s. Later innovations proved it as a unique material for roofing. The light weight of fiber glass shingles is advantageous in many applications apart from roofing. Its resistance to tear and wear is also greater. Its fire resistant quality is a great advantage.

Roofing problem has been solved up to an extent by the use of Fiber glass which is a type of asphalt. Asphalt is of two kinds: Organic and fiber glass. Asphalt shingles and fiber glass shingles are quite similar in appearance. Fiber glass shingles are more durable. Its light weight is another advantage. A bundle of fiber glass shingles weigh 70 to 140 lbs. Three bundles of fiber glass shingles may be needed to cover a roof area of about 100sq.m. Its durability is notable.

The life time of fiber glass shingles is about 25 years. Fiber glass shingles are more durable in cold climate. Proper roof ventilation can enhance its durability. The protective property of fiber glass shingles is derived from the long chain hydro carbons. In the hot Sun, these hydro carbons happen to soften. During the rainy season these hydrocarbons are washed away.

The shingles enhance beauty and elegance of the building. Fiber glass shingles are available in many colors and shades. The overall performance of fiber glass shingles is good. Repairs are less costly and effective. Another important advantage of roofing with fiber glass shingles is its low cost

The base layer of fiber glass shingles is a glass fiber reinforcing mat. The mat is produced by the combination of urea formaldehyde resin with random laid fiber glass. The mat is coated with asphalt. This makes the shingle water proof. Fiber glass reinforcement was used as substitute for Asbestos. It is used as an alternative for felt mats too.

The shingles are available in different kinds. Three stab shingles, laminated shingles, shadowed 3 tab shingles, shaped shingle etc are widely used. These can be installed in different patterns.

These are available in 36x12 inch size. When installed, it may look like a single piece. The architectural type roofing with fiber glass shingles has gained popularity nowadays. Apart from the disadvantage like thermal splitting, the fiber glass shingles give no other ill effects.

Installation of fiber glass shingles is quite easy. Methods of installation vary for different types of fiber glass shingles. The manufacturers will provide guidelines for this. These can be installed in a level surface. The remains of the old roof coverings have to be removed completely.

The materials needed for roofing installation include: fiber glass shingles, starter strip, roofing re roofing Perth nails, roofing tar, roofing vent, ice and water shield, tar paper, drip edge, staples, stapler, circular saw ladder, roofing nail guns, air compressor, utility knives, a pair of tin snips, claw hammers etc.

While installing the fiber glass shingles, it is necessary to provide proper ventilation which is a helping factor for longer life of the roofing. There should have a gap of 4 mm between the shingles. It is essential to lay felt over the installed fiber glass. This gives extra protection to the shingles.

The fiber glass shingles have to be installed at a temperature between 40 Degree F and 85 Degree F. If the temperature goes below 40 degrees, the shingles may become hard and brittle. Similarly, the temperature above 85 degree F is harmful for the shingles. In hot climate roofing has to be begun in the early morning and finished before noon.

It is important that you consult an expert in fiber glass shingles if you are thinking of laying it on your roof. We have been in the business of installing fiber glass shingles and are able to give you advice on the advantages and also the costs.

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