If you live in Moline, IL, there’s a good chance your roof is made of asphalt shingles. They’re one of the most common roofing materials in the U.S. But many homeowners don’t know how these shingles are made, or what makes them such a smart choice.
So let’s break it down in plain language. In this guide, you’ll learn how asphalt shingles are made, what asphalt shingles are made of, and why they’re a great option for your home in Moline.
What Are Asphalt Shingles Made Of?
Asphalt shingles may look simple, but they’re made of several strong materials that work together to protect your home.
Here’s a quick look at what asphalt shingles are made of.
1. The Base Mat
This is the bottom layer, which gives the shingle its shape and strength.
There are two types:
- Fiberglass base: Made of glass fibers. It’s light, strong, and fire-resistant.
- Organic base: Made from recycled paper or wood. It’s thicker and heavier, but it’s not used as much today.
2. The Asphalt Layer
This is the waterproof part of the shingle. Hot asphalt is added to the base mat to keep water, snow, and moisture out of your home.
3. The Mineral Granules
These tiny stone-like pieces are added to the top. They give shingles their color, but they do more than look nice.
They also:
- Block the sun’s UV rays
- Make shingles stronger
- Help protect your roof from fire
So, when people ask what are asphalt shingles made of, the answer is simple: a strong base, waterproof asphalt, and protective granules.
How Are Asphalt Shingles Made?
Now that you know what’s inside a shingle, let’s walk through how asphalt shingles are made.
Here’s a step-by-step look at the process.
Step 1: Making the Base Mat
If it’s a fiberglass base, tiny glass fibers are woven into a mat. If it’s organic, paper and wood are pressed into shape. This mat becomes the foundation of the shingle.
Step 2: Adding Asphalt
Next, the mat is coated with hot asphalt. This sticky material is spread over both sides. It keeps water out and helps hold the shingles together.
Step 3: Pressing on the Granules
While the asphalt is still warm, mineral granules are added to the top. They stick to the surface and protect the shingles from sun damage and harsh weather.
Step 4: Cooling and Cutting
Once the asphalt cools, the big sheet of material is cut into shingle shapes. Then they’re stacked into bundles and sent to roofing companies, including here in Moline, IL.
Why Asphalt Shingles Work Well in Moline, IL
Now that you understand how are asphalt shingles made, it’s easy to see why they’re such a smart choice for our area.
Budget-Friendly
Asphalt shingles are one of the most affordable roofing options. They’re easy to install and fix, which helps keep costs low.
Built for the Midwest
Moline, IL gets it all: hot summers, cold winters, and storms. Asphalt shingles are built to handle:
- Snow and ice
- Heavy rain and wind
- UV rays from the summer sun
Lots of Styles to Choose From
Shingles come in many colors and textures. You can match almost any home style, from brick ranch houses to modern designs.
How Asphalt Shingles Are Tested
Before shingles are sold, they go through tough tests to make sure they’ll last. Manufacturers want to be sure you’re getting a strong, reliable product.
Here are some standard tests:
- Wind tests: Check how well shingles stay in place during strong winds.
- Impact tests: See how they hold up to hail or falling branches.
- Weather tests: Make sure they can survive hot, cold, rain, and snow.
These tests are essential, especially in Moline, IL, where the weather can change fast.
Choose the Right Roofing Team in Moline
Knowing how are asphalt shingles made and what are asphalt shingles made of is great. But even the best shingles won’t help if they aren’t installed right.
Here’s what to look for when picking a roofer in Moline, IL:
- Experience with asphalt shingles
- Great local reviews
- Transparent pricing and honest advice
- Free inspections and solid warranties
A trusted roofing team will help you choose the best shingles for your home and make sure they’re installed with care.
Ready to Upgrade Your Roof?
Now that you know more about asphalt shingles, from how they’re made to why they’re a great choice, it’s time to take the next step.
If your roof is aging, missing shingles, or showing signs of wear, don’t wait for bigger problems to appear.
Schedule your free inspection today and let our Moline roofing experts help you find the best asphalt shingle solution for your home.
