Asphalt Roofing Uncovered: What's Under Your Shingles?

Why Asphalt Roofing is North America's #1 Choice

What is asphalt roofing? It's more than just shingles; it's a complete system designed to protect your home from the elements while boosting its curb appeal. As the most popular choice in North America, used on four out of five homes, asphalt roofing delivers proven durability, style, and unbeatable value.

Here's a quick overview:

• Composition: A fiberglass mat coated in asphalt and topped with protective mineral granules.
• System Components: Includes underlayment, flashing, ventilation, and shingles working together over the roof deck.
• Primary Function: To create a waterproof barrier that sheds rain and snow away from your home.
• Lifespan: Typically 15-30+ years, depending on shingle quality and installation.
• Cost-Effective: One of the most affordable roofing options available.

For over a century, asphalt has been a trusted roofing material. Today, modern GAF asphalt shingles offer advanced performance, including superior wind and fire resistance, and can mimic the look of premium materials like slate or wood shake at a fraction of the cost. At Ridge Top Exteriors, we specialize in installing these high-performance systems, ensuring your home gets the best in durability, aesthetics, and long-term value.

What is Asphalt Roofing? A Complete System Explained

An asphalt roof is much more than just the shingles you see from the street. It’s a multi-layered system where each component works together to protect your home. At Ridge Top Exteriors, we install a complete GAF roofing system, ensuring every part contributes to a durable, long-lasting, and watertight roof.

Here are the key components, from the inside out:

• Roof Decking: The foundational wood structure (usually plywood or OSB) that supports the entire roof.
• Ice & Water Shield: A self-adhering waterproof membrane installed in vulnerable areas like eaves and valleys to prevent leaks from ice dams and wind-driven rain.
• Underlayment: A water-resistant barrier laid over the roof deck to provide a secondary layer of protection against moisture.
• Starter Strip Shingles: The first row of shingles that seals the eaves and helps prevent shingle blow-off.
• Asphalt Shingles: The visible, outermost layer. Modern GAF shingles are made with a durable fiberglass mat, coated in waterproof asphalt, and covered with mineral granules. These granules provide UV protection, color, and algae resistance (with StainGuard Plus™ technology). GAF's LayerLock™ Technology also mechanically fuses the shingle layers for improved strength and wind resistance.
• Flashing: Metal pieces installed around chimneys, vents, and skylights to direct water away from these critical areas.
• Ventilation: A system of intake (soffit) and exhaust (ridge) vents that allows air to circulate, preventing heat and moisture buildup in the attic that can damage your roof and home.
• Ridge Cap Shingles: Specially designed shingles that cover the hips and ridges of the roof, providing a clean, finished look and protecting these high-stress areas.

When installed correctly by a GAF Master Elite Contractor like Ridge Top Exteriors, these components form a robust defense for your home. Learn more about our roofing services.

Types of GAF Asphalt Shingles for Your Home

One of the greatest advantages of asphalt roofing is its versatility. GAF offers a wide range of shingles to match any style and budget. At Ridge Top Exteriors, we help you choose the perfect option for your home's unique style.

Architectural (Dimensional) Shingles: The Modern Standard

Architectural shingles are the most popular choice for homeowners today. Their multi-layered construction creates a rich, dimensional look that mimics natural materials like wood shake. We frequently recommend GAF Timberline HDZ® shingles for their superior performance and beauty.

• Aesthetics: Textured, dimensional appearance adds significant curb appeal.
• Durability: Thicker and more resistant to wind and impact than traditional shingles.
• Longer Lifespan: Typically lasts 25-30 years or more.

Luxury Shingles: The Ultimate in Style and Performance

For homeowners who want the absolute best, luxury shingles offer unparalleled beauty and protection. These high-end shingles are designed to realistically replicate premium materials like natural slate at a fraction of the cost.

• Premium Look: Provides the most authentic and sophisticated appearance.
• Maximum Durability: Offers superior protection against harsh weather and impact.
• Longest Lifespan: Built to last 30 years or more.

3-Tab Shingles: A Basic, Traditional Option

Three-tab shingles are the most basic and economical option. They have a flat, single-layer design that creates a uniform pattern. While their popularity has declined, they remain a viable choice for budget-focused projects.

• Affordability: The most cost-effective asphalt shingle option.
• Appearance: A clean, traditional, and flat look.
• Shorter Lifespan: Generally lasts 15-20 years and offers less wind resistance.

The Unbeatable Advantages of an Asphalt Roof

It's clear why asphalt remains North America's top choice. GAF asphalt shingles deliver a balanced package of performance, versatility, and value that homeowners in Wisconsin, Illinois, and Florida appreciate.

Here's a quick comparison of GAF Asphalt Shingles against some alternatives:

What is asphalt roofing's biggest benefit? Best Value & ROI

Asphalt roofing provides incredible value. It's one of the most affordable options upfront, and a new GAF roof offers an excellent return on investment (ROI). The 2023 COST VS VALUE REPORT shows a national average ROI of 61.1% for asphalt shingle replacement. For a 2,500 sq ft roof, replacement costs with Ridge Top Exteriors typically range from $12,500 to $18,125, making it a smart financial decision.

Performance That Protects: Weather, Wind, and Fire Resistance

GAF asphalt shingles are engineered for robust performance against harsh weather. They are designed to shed water, resist high winds (with the GAF WindProven™ Limited Wind Warranty), and achieve a Class A fire rating—the highest possible. Many GAF products also meet the UL 2218 standard for impact resistance, which can sometimes lead to insurance discounts. For more technical details, see ARMA's technical bulletins.

A Style for Every Home: Endless Aesthetic Options

GAF asphalt shingles offer a vast range of colors and styles to boost your home's curb appeal. They can realistically mimic the look of more expensive materials like wood shakes or natural slate without the high cost or maintenance. GAF shingles are designed to harmonize with various siding types (like vinyl, LP SmartSide, or Hardie) and window styles, ensuring a cohesive look for your home. To see the possibilities, try our 3D Designer tool.

What is Asphalt Roofing? A Complete System Explained

When we talk about what is asphalt roofing, it's easy to picture just the shingles you see from the street. But that's only part of the story! An asphalt roof is actually a sophisticated, integrated system designed to work together to protect your home. Each component plays a crucial role in ensuring waterproofing, durability, and the overall longevity of your roof. At Ridge Top Exteriors, we understand that a roof is only as strong as its weakest link, which is why we carefully install every part of your GAF roofing system.

The Shingles: The First Line of Defense

The asphalt shingle itself is a marvel of engineering, serving as your home's primary shield against the elements. Most asphalt shingles today, especially the high-quality GAF shingles we install, are predominantly fiberglass-based. They are manufactured with a strong fiberglass mat that provides stability and resistance to moisture. This mat is then coated with asphalt, which is the waterproofing agent, and finally surfaced with weather-resistant mineral granules.

These granules aren't just for show; they're essential for:

• UV Protection: The granules block harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun, preventing the asphalt from breaking down prematurely.
• Strength and Durability: They add an extra layer of protection, making the shingles more resistant to impact and wear. The granules also aid in preventing shingles from sticking to one another during packaging and installation.
• Algae Resistance: Many modern GAF shingles, like those with StainGuard Plus technology, incorporate copper-containing granules that release microscopic particles to prevent unsightly dark streaks caused by blue-green algae.
• Aesthetics: The color and texture of these granules provide the wide array of aesthetic options, allowing for a style to match any home.

GAF also innovates with technologies like LayerLock™ Technology, which mechanically fastens the common bond between shingle layers. This provides a stronger, more durable roof that's exceptionally wind-resistant, a crucial feature for homes in our service areas across Wisconsin, Illinois, and Florida.

The Unseen Heroes: Components Under the Shingles

While the shingles get all the glory, the components beneath them are the unsung heroes of your asphalt roofing system. These layers work in concert to provide comprehensive protection, ensuring your home stays dry and safe. An asphalt roofing system includes base layers of underlayments laid over the wooden roof deck, flashing and boots at vulnerable areas to prevent leaks, and proper ventilation. These components aid in durability, waterproofing, and roof ventilation.

Let’s explore these vital parts:

• Roof Decking: This is the solid foundation of your roof, typically plywood or oriented strand board (OSB). All subsequent roofing materials are securely fastened to it, so its integrity is paramount.
• Underlayment: Installed directly over the roof deck, this synthetic layer (sometimes referred to as 'felt paper' in its older form) provides a crucial secondary barrier against moisture. It offers temporary weather protection until the shingles are installed and acts as an additional line of defense if water ever manages to penetrate the shingles.
• Ice & Water Shield: This is a self-adhering, waterproof membrane that we apply to the most vulnerable areas of your roof, such as eaves, valleys, and around chimneys and skylights. For homes in our Midwest service areas like Madison, Milwaukee, or Gurnee, where harsh winters bring heavy snow and ice, this component is indispensable for preventing damaging ice dams and subsequent water penetration. In Florida, it's still a critical layer for severe rain and wind events.
• Starter Strip Shingles: These are specially designed shingles that form the first course along the eave line. They provide a continuous watertight seal and ensure proper shingle alignment for the entire roof, preventing uplift.
• Flashing: Thin, corrosion-resistant metal pieces (or other materials) are strategically installed at critical junctures, such as around chimneys, skylights, and vent pipes. Their purpose is to divert water away from these penetration points, which are common areas for leaks.
• Proper Ventilation: A well-ventilated attic is absolutely vital for the health and longevity of your asphalt roof and your entire home. Ridge vents, combined with intake vents at the eaves (soffit vents), create a continuous airflow. This prevents heat buildup in the summer (which can literally cook your shingles from below, shortening their lifespan) and moisture accumulation in the winter (which can lead to mold growth, wood rot, and the formation of ice dams).
• Ridge Cap Shingles: These are distinct, often thicker, shingles specifically designed to cover the peaks (ridges) and angled intersections (hips) of your roof. They provide a watertight seal where different roof planes meet and contribute significantly to the finished, aesthetic look of your roof.

All these components, when installed correctly as part of a complete GAF roofing system by a GAF Master Elite Contractor like Ridge Top Exteriors, create a robust and long-lasting defense for your home. To learn more about how we protect your home from the top down, visit our roofing services page.

Types of GAF Asphalt Shingles for Your Home

One of the greatest strengths of asphalt roofing is its incredible versatility. GAF offers a wide array of shingle types, each with different aesthetics, performance, and price points. At Ridge Top Exteriors, we install GAF shingles exclusively, ensuring we have the perfect option for your home's style and budget.

Architectural (Dimensional) Shingles: The Modern Standard

Architectural shingles are the most popular choice for homeowners. Constructed with multiple layers, they create a thick, textured appearance that mimics natural materials like wood shakes without the high cost or maintenance. They are typically twice as thick as basic 3-tab shingles.

• Improved Aesthetics: Their dimensional look adds significant curb appeal.
• Superior Durability: The multi-layer design is more resistant to wind and impact. GAF Timberline HDZ shingles, for example, have exceptional wind ratings.
• Longer Lifespan: Expect a lifespan of 25-30 years or more with proper installation.
• Increased Home Value: Their attractive appearance and durability are a smart investment.

Luxury Shingles: The Ultimate in Style and Performance

For the pinnacle of asphalt roofing, luxury shingles replicate the look of natural slate or cedar shakes with stunning realism. They are thicker, heavier, and more intricately designed than architectural shingles, offering unparalleled curb appeal and performance.

• Premium Aesthetics: Provides an authentic, high-end look that lifts your home's exterior.
• Maximum Durability: Robust construction offers superior protection against harsh weather and impact.
• Exceptional Lifespan: Built to last 30 years or more.

3-Tab Shingles: A Basic, Traditional Option

Three-tab shingles are the most basic and budget-friendly asphalt shingle. Their flat, single-layer design creates a uniform pattern. While less popular now, they are suitable for projects where cost is the primary concern.

• Lower Cost: The most economical asphalt shingle option.
• Uniform Appearance: Offers a clean, traditional look.
• Shorter Lifespan: Typically lasts 15-20 years.
• Less Wind Resistance: Single-layer construction is less resistant to wind than multi-layered options.

The Unbeatable Advantages of an Asphalt Roof

When considering what is asphalt roofing truly offering, it's clear why it remains North America's top choice. Its combination of proven performance, versatility, and peace of mind is simply unbeatable. While other materials like metal or wood shake have their merits, GAF asphalt shingles consistently deliver a balanced package of benefits that homeowners in Wisconsin, Illinois, and Florida appreciate.

Here's a quick comparison of GAF Asphalt Shingles against some alternatives:

What is asphalt roofing's biggest benefit? Best Value & ROI

Perhaps the biggest advantage of asphalt roofing is the incredible value it provides. Asphalt shingles are among the most affordable roofing options, offering a significantly lower upfront cost compared to metal or slate. According to the 2023 COST VS VALUE REPORT, the national average ROI for an asphalt roof replacement is an impressive 61.1%, boosting your home's value.

For a 2,500 sq ft roof, typical replacement costs with Ridge Top Exteriors in our service areas generally range from $12,500 to $18,125, depending on your specific location and the complexity of your roof. This combination of affordability and strong ROI makes it a smart financial decision for any homeowner.

Performance That Protects: Weather, Wind, and Fire Resistance

GAF asphalt shingles are engineered for robust performance against the varied weather conditions in Wisconsin, Illinois, and Florida.

• Weather Resistance: A complete GAF roofing system creates a watertight barrier against heavy rain and snow.
• Wind Resistance: GAF's WindProven™ Limited Wind Warranty offers superior protection against high winds, with many shingles rated for up to 130 mph. This is crucial for Florida's hurricane season and Midwest thunderstorms. You can find more technical details in ARMA's technical bulletins.
• Fire Resistance: GAF fiberglass asphalt shingles have a Class A fire rating, the highest possible, offering excellent protection and peace of mind.
• Hail Damage Resistance: Many GAF shingles are designed with improved impact resistance and meet the UL 2218 standard, which can sometimes lead to insurance discounts.

A Style for Every Home: Endless Aesthetic Options

Beyond protection, GAF asphalt shingles offer an incredible range of aesthetic options to boost your curb appeal. What is asphalt roofing if not a chance to define your home's style?

• Wide Color Palette: GAF offers an extensive selection of colors to perfectly match your home's siding and windows.
• Mimics Natural Materials: Get the high-end look of wood shakes or natural slate without the premium cost or maintenance.
• Improves Curb Appeal: A new GAF roof can dramatically improve your home's exterior and increase its market value.
• Complements Other Exteriors: GAF shingles are designed to harmonize beautifully with various siding types (like vinyl, LP SmartSide, or Hardie siding) and window styles.

To visualize the possibilities, use our 3D Designer tool to experiment with different roofing, siding, and trim combinations on your own home.

Lifespan, Warranties, and When to Replace Your Roof

Understanding the long-term aspects of your asphalt roof is key to maximizing its life and knowing when it's time for a change.

How Long Does an Asphalt Roof Really Last?

The lifespan of an asphalt roof typically ranges from 15 to 30+ years, influenced by several factors:

• Shingle Quality: 3-tab shingles last around 15-20 years, while architectural and luxury shingles can last 30 years or more.
• Installation Quality: Professional installation by a certified contractor is the most critical factor for longevity.
• Attic Ventilation: Proper airflow prevents heat and moisture buildup that can prematurely age your roof.
• Climate & Maintenance: Extreme weather accelerates wear, while regular maintenance extends a roof's life.

Understanding Your Protection: The Power of a GAF Warranty

When you invest in a new GAF roof with Ridge Top Exteriors, you get peace of mind backed by industry-leading warranties. As a GAF Master Elite Contractor—a status held by only 2% of roofing contractors—we can offer the exclusive GAF Golden Pledge Warranty. This top-tier warranty provides:

• 50-year material coverage against manufacturing defects.
• 25-year workmanship coverage backed directly by GAF, protecting you from installation errors.

This is far superior to the 2-5 year warranties offered by many other contractors and ensures your investment is protected for decades.

7 Telltale Signs Your Asphalt Roof Needs Replacement

Knowing when to replace your roof can save you from costly emergency repairs. Here are 7 signs to watch for:

1. Curling or Cracked Shingles: Edges of shingles are turning up or down, or you see visible cracks.
2. Bald Spots & Granule Loss: Shingles look bare, and you find excessive granules in your gutters.
3. Dark Streaks or Moss: Widespread algae or moss growth can indicate moisture issues on an older roof.
4. Missing or Damaged Shingles: Obvious gaps or damaged shingles, especially after a storm.
5. Active Leaks or Ceiling Stains: Any sign of water inside your home is an urgent red flag.
6. Sagging Roof Deck: The roof line appears to droop or sag, indicating a structural problem.
7. Age: If your roof is over 20 years old, it's wise to have it professionally inspected, even if it looks fine from the ground.

If you notice these signs, it may be time for a replacement. While we offer roof repair services, a new roof is often the safest and most cost-effective long-term solution.

Frequently Asked Questions about Asphalt Roofing

Here are answers to some common questions we receive about asphalt roofing.

Can you install new asphalt shingles over old ones?

While technically possible, we strongly advise against it. A "roof-over" can hide serious problems and lead to future issues. We always recommend a full tear-off for these reasons:

• Hidden Damage: Old shingles can conceal rot or damage to the underlying roof deck.
• Voided Warranties: Most manufacturers, including GAF, will not warranty shingles installed over an existing layer.
• Excess Weight: A second layer of shingles adds significant weight that your home's structure may not be designed to support.
• Reduced Lifespan: The new shingles won't seal or lay flat properly, leading to premature failure and a lumpy appearance.

What is asphalt roofing's environmental impact?

The roofing industry is becoming more sustainable. Old asphalt shingles are increasingly recycled into materials for road paving, known as Reclaimed Asphalt Shingles (RAS). While asbestos was used in some very old shingles (pre-1980s), it is not a concern with modern materials. At Ridge Top Exteriors, we follow responsible disposal practices and recycle old shingles whenever local facilities are available.

How do I maintain my asphalt roof?

Regular maintenance is crucial to extending your roof's life. However, attempting DIY roof maintenance is extremely dangerous and can lead to serious injury or void your warranty. We recommend professional services for the following tasks:

• Debris Removal: Leaves and other debris should be cleared from the roof surface. Using improper tools, like a pressure washer, can cause severe damage to the shingles. Professionals have the right equipment and safety training for this job.
• Gutter Cleaning: Clogged gutters can cause water to back up under your shingles, leading to ice dams and costly water damage. Gutter cleaning involves working from a ladder, which poses a significant fall risk.
• Tree Trimming: Overhanging branches can scrape against shingles and fall during storms, causing damage. Trimming large branches should be left to insured professionals.
• Professional Inspections: The safest and most effective way to maintain your roof is to schedule annual professional inspections, especially after major storms. A trained inspector can safely identify and address potential issues before they become major problems.

For total peace of mind, consider our Roof Care program for proactive, professional maintenance.

Conclusion: Trust the Experts for Your Asphalt Roof

We hope this guide has thoroughly answered what is asphalt roofing and why it's such a popular and reliable choice for homeowners across the country, especially in our service areas of Wisconsin, Illinois, and Florida. From its innovative multi-layered construction to its impressive resilience against weather, wind, and fire, a GAF asphalt roofing system delivers unparalleled durability, exceptional value, and endless aesthetic possibilities.

At Ridge Top Exteriors, we believe that an asphalt roof is more than just shingles—it's an integrated system that protects your most valuable asset. That's why we emphasize the importance of professional installation by a qualified and experienced team. As a GAF Master Elite Contractor, we stand out from the crowd, offering:

• Over 20+ years of experience: Since 2002, we've completed over 45,000 projects with a 98% customer satisfaction rating.
• Best Craftsmanship: Our factory-certified installers ensure your GAF roofing system is installed to the highest standards.
• Industry-Leading Warranties: Including the exclusive GAF Golden Pledge Warranty, offering up to 50 years of material coverage and 25 years of workmanship coverage.
• Local Expertise: With teams in Appleton, Madison, Milwaukee, Gurnee, Clearwater, and many surrounding communities, we understand the unique roofing needs of your region.

Don't leave your home's protection to chance. Trust the experts who stand behind every project with honesty, professionalism, and exceptional service.

Ready to uncover the perfect GAF asphalt roofing solution for your home? Get your free, no-obligation instant quote today!