Roofing Materials

What Are Asphalt Shingles?

Asphalt shingles are overlapping roof coverings made with asphalt, protective granules, and a reinforcing mat.

Understanding Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt Shingles: Asphalt shingles are overlapping roof coverings made with asphalt, protective granules, and a reinforcing mat.

Published: June 4, 2026 Reviewed: June 4, 2026 Updated: June 4, 2026 By Exterior Echelon

Asphalt shingles are one of the most common residential roofing materials in Northern Illinois. They are installed in overlapping rows so water sheds down the roof and away from the home.

Why It Matters

Modern asphalt shingles usually include a fiberglass mat, asphalt coating, and protective surface granules. The granules help protect the shingle from sunlight, weather, and everyday wear.

Common Problems

Homeowners should pay attention to missing shingles, curling edges, cracking, nail pops, and heavy granule loss. Those signs can mean the roof is aging, damaged, poorly ventilated, or affected by severe weather.

Exterior Echelon Notes

Exterior Echelon evaluates asphalt shingles as part of the full roof system, including ventilation, flashing, underlayment, starter courses, roof decking, and installation quality.

Asphalt shingles installed on a residential roof
Asphalt shingles shed water in overlapping rows and protect the roof deck below.

Continue learning with connected glossary definitions.

Glossary Note

This glossary is provided for general homeowner education. Actual roofing, siding, gutter, window, and exterior remodeling conditions should be evaluated by a qualified contractor before making repair, replacement, or insurance claim decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

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