Roofing shingles are incredibly ubiquitous, as many homeowners around the country enjoy the protective benefits and low cost of asphalt roofs. Yet, many don’t truly understand how these components protect their home, which can be problematic if leaks or other issues arise. Thankfully, the expert roofers from Sterling Exteriors, based in Cincinnati, OH, are here to help. Below, they explain the anatomy of the shingle and how each component works to maximize protection.

Local Roofers Explain What You Need to Know About Shingle Anatomy

Matting

Most shingles today incorporate matting that is made of fiberglass, though in the past it may have been constructed from paper, cellulose fibers, or felt. This component is the base layer of the shingle, providing a strong foundation for the other components. The matting also ensures good performance and a long life span of the shingle itself.

Asphalt

During the manufacturing process, asphalt is applied to the fiberglass matting to provide additional thickness. Most modern shingles incorporate several layers of asphalt to maximize the weatherproofing benefits of this material. In fact, the asphalt is a black and tarry substance that actually plays an important role in preventing water from entering your home.

Granules

Finally, small granules are embedded into the asphalt of the shingle, giving it its color and appearance. Granules protect the asphalt from the sun’s harmful UV rays, which could otherwise cause the shingle to break down and dry out. For this reason, the granules play a critical role in the longevity of the shingle. If granules begin to frequently fall off the shingles, this is a common sign that the roof may need to be replaced.

Understanding the anatomy of the shingle is important because it allows you determine what repairs may be necessary when problems arise. The expert roofers at Sterling Exteriors will repair or replace your residential roofing materials at affordable prices. For more than 15 years, these professionals have been serving the community and will even help improve the insulation, windows, or siding of your home. To learn more about how they can help you, give them a call at (513) 685-8055. You can also follow the roofers on Twitter for the latest updates.