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Large format vs interlocking asphalt shingles

Analyzing the differences between large format and interlocking asphalt shingles

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The variety of roofing shingles available makes it easy for people to customize their homes. Two types of shingles, interlocking asphalt shingles and large format asphalt shingles, have specific properties that make them ideal for certain projects. Before requesting a roofing estimate, compare these two types of shingles and decide which one is best for you.

Atlas Roofing large format shinglesLarge format shingles are larger than other types of shingles, so fewer are needed to complete a project. This is an attractive prospect for homeowners who have limited roofing budgets. Another benefit of these shingles is that they typically do not use tabs or cutouts. Tabs and cutouts make shingles more vulnerable to damage, so using shingles that do not have them can help a roof stand up to hail, pounding rain and high winds.

Interlocking shingles fasten to each other mechanically. The major benefit of using interlocking shingles is that they provide better wind resistance than other types of shingles. This reduces the risk of damage during storms involving high winds. It is possible to create a number of designs with these shingles, as they come in a variety of shapes and sizes.

These are just a few of the other benefits associated with using interlocking shingles:

  • Greater resistance to hail
  • Quick installation
  • Reduced disposal costs

Homeowners who are concerned about the environment should know that large format and interlocking shingles are also recyclable. Companies use these shingles to make new shingles or to mix asphalt and cold patch for roads, making them an environmentally friendly alternative to other types of roofing materials.

Owens Corning asphalt shinglesSeveral manufacturers produce these types of shingles, making them available to many homeowners. GAF produces premium shingles that mimic the look of shake shingles. Shake shingles are produced with split logs, so they have a very distinctive appearance. IKO manufactures premium shingles and architectural shingles, giving consumers a number of options when building a home or replacing an existing roof.

Owens Corning produces several lines of shingles, each of which has a limited warranty and additional protection for five to ten years, giving homeowners peace of mind when selecting their shingles. Malarkey Roofing Products offers traditional shingles, high-profile laminate shingles and solar reflective shingles for residential roofing projects. For those concerned about sustainability, Malarkey also has a commitment to producing sustainable roofing products. CertainTeed produces strip asphalt shingles, premium asphalt shingles and dimensional asphalt shingles.

Before choosing a roofer, it is very important to consider all of your options. Roofing cost is just one thing to consider when undertaking this type of project. You must also consider the amount of experience a roofer has and whether the roofer has a good track record. The Reply! service can help you identify the best contractor to install roofing on a new home or replace an existing roof. No matter how you decide to proceed with your roofing project, using large format asphalt shingles or interlocking asphalt shingles can help you enhance your home's appearance and increase its value.

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