Your Go-To Roofing Solution in the Treasure Valley
For homeowners across North America, asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing choice, and for good reason. They offer a fantastic combination of durability, affordability, and style versatility that few other materials can match. Here in Boise, where we experience everything from hot, dry summers to cold, snowy winters, choosing the right roofing material is crucial for protecting your home. High-quality asphalt shingles are engineered to handle these temperature fluctuations, making them an excellent and practical choice for Treasure Valley residences.
Whether you’re building a new home, replacing an old roof, or in need of urgent roof repairs after a storm, understanding the benefits of asphalt roofing can help you make a confident, informed decision for your property.
Why Choose Asphalt Shingles for Your Boise Home?
Asphalt shingles provide a reliable and robust shield for your home. Their multilayer construction, typically involving a fiberglass base mat coated in waterproof asphalt and topped with ceramic granules, offers excellent protection against the elements. Let’s break down the key advantages:
Cost-Effective and High Value
One of the most significant benefits of asphalt roofing is its affordability. Compared to materials like metal or slate, asphalt shingles offer a high-quality roofing solution without the hefty price tag, making them a budget-friendly option for many homeowners. Their long lifespan, which can range from 20 to 30 years or more with proper maintenance, ensures you get superb value for your investment.
Design Versatility and Curb Appeal
Asphalt shingles come in a vast array of colors, textures, and styles. Whether you prefer a traditional 3-tab shingle or the more modern, multi-dimensional look of architectural shingles, there’s an option to complement any home’s aesthetic. Some high-end luxury shingles even mimic the appearance of natural slate or wood shakes, providing a premium look at a fraction of the cost.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Modern asphalt shingles are engineered to withstand a wide range of weather conditions, from harsh UV rays and high winds to heavy rain and snow. This makes them particularly well-suited for the Boise climate. Many shingles also come with a Class A fire rating, the highest available, offering you and your family greater peace of mind.
Did You Know?
The granules on asphalt shingles do more than just add color! They play a vital role in protecting the shingle’s asphalt layer from damaging UV rays, which helps prevent it from drying out and cracking over time. This protection is essential for maximizing the life of your roof.
Types of Asphalt Shingles: Finding Your Perfect Match
Asphalt shingles are generally categorized into three main types. Understanding the differences will help you select the best option for your home and budget.
| Shingle Type | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 3-Tab Shingles | The most basic and economical option, these single-layer shingles have a flat, uniform appearance. | Budget-conscious projects and homeowners looking for a clean, traditional look. |
| Dimensional (Architectural) Shingles | The most popular choice, these dual-layer shingles offer a thicker, multi-dimensional look that can mimic wood shake. They are heavier and more durable than 3-tab shingles. | Homeowners seeking a great balance of performance, curb appeal, and value. The standard for most residential roofing projects. |
| Luxury (Premium) Shingles | The highest-quality option, these multi-layer shingles are designed to replicate the appearance of natural materials like slate or cedar shakes, offering superior durability and a more dramatic look. | Those wanting maximum protection, a standout aesthetic, and a long-term roofing investment. |
The Asphalt Roof Installation Process
A professional roof installation is key to ensuring its longevity and performance. While every project is unique, here’s a general step-by-step overview of what to expect from a professional team like Tectonic Roofing:
1. Thorough Inspection and Preparation
The process begins with a comprehensive free roof inspection to assess the current condition of your roof. The old roofing materials are carefully removed, and the underlying roof deck is inspected for any signs of damage or rot, which are repaired to ensure a solid foundation.
2. Installing Protective Layers
An ice and water shield is often applied to vulnerable areas like eaves and valleys for extra protection against moisture. Then, a layer of underlayment (roofing felt or synthetic) is installed over the entire roof deck to act as a secondary barrier against water infiltration.
3. Shingle Application
Starting from the bottom edge and working upwards, starter strips are laid, followed by the main shingles in overlapping rows. This precise layering is what allows the roof to effectively shed water. Flashing is installed around chimneys, vents, and skylights to prevent leaks in these critical areas.
4. Ridge and Ventilation Installation
Ridge cap shingles are installed along the peaks of the roof to complete the protective barrier. Proper ventilation systems, such as ridge vents, are also installed to allow heat and moisture to escape from the attic, which is vital for the roof’s health and your home’s energy efficiency.
5. Final Cleanup and Inspection
Once the installation is complete, the site is thoroughly cleaned of all debris and old materials. A final inspection ensures that every detail meets the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship.
Protecting Your Investment in the Boise Climate
The climate in Boise poses unique challenges, from intense sun that can cause materials to degrade to heavy snow that adds significant weight to your roof structure. Regular maintenance is key to extending the life of your asphalt roof. Simple steps like keeping your gutters clean, removing debris, and scheduling annual inspections can prevent minor issues from becoming major, costly problems. After a severe storm, it’s always wise to have a professional check for damage. If you suspect any issues, our team can help you navigate the insurance claim process.
Ready to Protect Your Treasure Valley Home?
An asphalt roof from Tectonic Roofing is more than just shingles—it’s a promise of safety, quality, and lasting value. Our veteran-owned team brings over 30 years of combined experience to every project. Plus, we back our work with a 5-year workmanship warranty.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does an asphalt shingle roof last in Boise?
With proper installation and maintenance, you can expect an asphalt roof to last between 20-30 years in the Boise area. The lifespan can vary based on the quality of the shingle and specific environmental factors.
What are signs my asphalt roof needs to be replaced?
Common warning signs include cracked, curling, or missing shingles; significant granule loss (you’ll see them in your gutters); sagging spots on the roof deck; and signs of water leaks or moisture in your attic.
Can I install a new asphalt roof over my old one?
While it’s sometimes possible to install a second layer of shingles, it’s generally not recommended. A complete tear-off allows for a thorough inspection and repair of the roof deck, ensuring a more durable and long-lasting result.
How does Boise’s snow affect an asphalt roof?
Heavy snow can add significant weight to a roof. Asphalt shingles, when installed on a properly structured roof, can handle typical Boise snowfall. However, it’s important to prevent ice dams—ridges of ice that form at the edge of a roof and prevent melting snow from draining—which can lead to water backing up under the shingles. Proper attic insulation and ventilation are key preventative measures.
Glossary of Roofing Terms
Deck/Sheathing: The plywood or OSB board surface that makes up the foundational layer of your roof.
Drip Edge: Metal flashing installed at the edges of the roof to help control the flow of water away from the fascia.
Flashing: Pieces of metal used to prevent water from seeping into critical areas of the roof, such as around chimneys, vents, or in valleys.
Granules: The ceramic-coated particles on the top surface of asphalt shingles that provide color and protect them from UV rays.
Ice Dam: A ridge of ice that forms on the edge of a roof, preventing melting snow from draining properly.
Ridge: The horizontal peak of the roof where two sloped roof planes meet.
Underlayment: A layer of water-resistant material placed between the roof deck and the shingles to serve as a secondary moisture barrier.