Choosing the right roofing material is key to keeping your home safe, efficient, and attractive. Fiberglass shingles are a top pick for many homeowners in 2024 due to their durability and stylish options.
Whether you’re building a new home or replacing an old roof, learning about fiberglass shingles can help you make a smart decision.
These shingles combine strength and versatility, making them a great choice for modern homes.
How Do Fiberglass Shingles Differ From Regular Asphalt Shingles?
Fiberglass shingles and regular asphalt shingles may look similar, but they differ significantly in composition and performance. Fiberglass shingles use a fiberglass mat as a base, while asphalt shingles use an organic felt mat. This makes fiberglass shingles lighter and more durable, often leading to easier handling and lower installation costs.
Beyond weight and design, safety and longevity are key considerations. Fiberglass shingles have a superior fire rating due to their fiberglass core, offering extra security. They also excel in weather resilience, providing robust protection against severe weather like strong winds and heavy rain. Their durability against environmental wear and tear has earned them a strong reputation in the roofing industry.
What Are The Pros And Cons Of Fiberglass Roof Shingles?
When starting a new roofing project or replacing an existing roof, it’s important to consider the pros and cons of different materials. Fiberglass shingles stand out due to their distinct properties. Let’s explore what makes them beneficial while also examining some constraints that might influence your decision.
Pros of Fiberglass Shingles
1. Aesthetics and Versatility
Fiberglass shingles come in various colors and styles, complementing any home design. Architectural shingles mimic expensive materials like slate or wood shakes, adding a dimensional appeal.
2. Energy Efficiency and Insulation Properties
Constructed with a fiberglass base, waterproof asphalt, and ceramic granules, these shingles reflect UV rays and improve insulation, helping to regulate indoor temperatures and potentially reducing energy bills.
3. Cost-Effectiveness over Time
Although they may have a higher initial cost, fiberglass shingles offer superior durability and longevity, leading to fewer replacements over time.
Cons Of Fiberglass Shingles
1. Longevity Compared to Alternatives
While durable, fiberglass shingles may not last as long as metal or tile under extreme conditions like heavy snowfall or hurricanes.
2. Environmental Impact
Despite improvements in recyclability, disposing of fiberglass shingles can be problematic as not all components are biodegradable or easily recyclable.
How Do You Install Fiberglass Roofing Shingles?
When it comes to installing these shingles, you will face the choice between hiring a professional or attempting to do it yourself. In this section, I’ll walk you through the costs and benefits of both options.
A Step-by-Step Installation Process
If you decide that DIY installation is feasible for you, here’s a simplified step-by-step guide:
- Preparation
- Measure your roof area to determine how many shingles you’ll need.
- Purchase the required materials, including fiberglass shingles, underlayment, flashing, nails, and drip edge.
- Collect all accessible tools, including a ladder, hammer/nail gun, and utility knife.
2. Remove Old Roofing Material
- Safely remove existing layers of shingles using specialized tools like a roofer’s fork or shovel.
- Inspect underlying wood decking for any damage or rot and repair as needed before proceeding.
3. Install Underlayment
- Lay down underlayment from the bottom edge of the roof working your way up overlapping sheets by several inches for water protection.
4. Install New Shingles
- Start along the eaves, progressing upwards while ensuring each row overlaps lower ones properly, creating an effective barrier against elements.
5. Finish Edges and Ridges
- Install cap shingles along the top of the ridge for added protection along where the two slopes meet.
- Secure metal flashing around chimney stacks or against vertical surfaces intersecting with your rooftop.
6. Clean-Up
- Dispose of old materials responsibly by renting dumpsters or contacting local waste management services designed specifically for construction debris disposal.
Should you hire a professional or DIY for fiberglass shingle installation?
Choosing between professional installation and DIY should largely depend on your personal experience with home improvement projects and your budget. Here are some points to consider:
- Cost: Hiring professionals can be more expensive upfront, but the cost generally includes labor while also ensuring that the installation meets industry standards. By contrast, DIY options might save you labor costs but could lead to additional expenses if errors occur.
- Time Efficiency: Professional roofers can complete the job quicker due to their skills and team size. If time is a constraint or if immediate roof replacement is necessary before severe weather conditions set in, we recommend hiring professionals.
- Quality and Warranty: Professionals guarantee quality workmanship, which often comes with warranties.
- Risk and Safety: Roof installation involves considerable risk. Professionals have the proper equipment and training to manage these risks effectively.
How Much Does a Fiberglass Shingles Roof Cost?
The cost of fiberglass shingles varies depending on several factors, including the type of shingle, roof size, and labor costs. Here’s a detailed breakdown to give you a clearer picture:
Material Costs
- 3-Tab Fiberglass Shingles: These are the most common and budget-friendly, costing between $1 and $5 per square foot.
- Architectural Fiberglass Shingles: These premium shingles are more expensive, ranging from $4.50 to $7 per square foot.
Installation Costs
- Average Total Cost: Including both materials and labor, the cost typically ranges from $300 to $500 per square (100 square feet). For a standard 1,700-square-foot roof, this translates to a total installation cost of approximately $7,700 to $10,000.
- Labor Costs: Labor generally constitutes 60% to 70% of the total cost. The average hourly rate for a roofer is around $75, but this can vary based on location and complexity of the roof.
Additional Costs
- Removal of Old Roof: If your project involves removing an old roof, expect to pay an additional $1 to $3 per square foot for disposal.
- Other Factors: Costs can also be influenced by roof pitch, complexity, local labor rates, and the need for additional materials like underlayment, flashing, or ventilation components.
Example Calculations
For a 1,700-square-foot roof:
- Low-end Estimate: $3.50 per square foot x 1,700 = $5,950 (materials only)
- High-end Estimate: $5 per square foot x 1,700 = $8,500 (materials only)
- Including Installation: $7,700 to $10,000
This should give you a comprehensive understanding of the costs involved in installing fiberglass shingles, helping you plan your roofing project more effectively. For more precise estimates, it’s always best to get quotes from local contractors.
How Long Do Fiberglass Roof Shingles Last?
Fiberglass roof shingles typically last 25 to 50 years, depending on maintenance and climate conditions. Thanks to their construction involving a fiberglass mat, asphalt coating, and ceramic granules, they are durable and lightweight. Regular maintenance, including annual inspections and gutter cleaning, can help extend their lifespan.
Contact Professional Roofers In Northern Wisconsin
Are you looking to install a new roof or replace the existing shingles? Fiberglass shingles can be an incredible choice for your home. However, regardless of the types of shingles or roofing materials you choose, the professional roofers at Prestige Roofing can install any roof you desire.
So, if you are ready to start a new roofing project or plan for a future one, contact our experts. We are well-versed and skilled at many roofing services, be it new roof installation or complete roof replacement. Our ratings and legacy of customer satisfaction speak for our work, so give us a call today at (920) 791-0414 and talk with one of our roofing experts.