Asphalt shingles don’t just appear on your roof by magic (though we wish it were that easy). These durable, weather-resistant materials go through an intense manufacturing process before they ever see a Kansas City rooftop. But what actually goes into making them? And why are they one of the most popular roofing choices? Let’s break it all down and give you an inside look at how asphalt shingles are made—from start to finish.
What Are Asphalt Shingles Made Of?
Asphalt shingles may seem simple, but they’re carefully engineered to withstand the elements while keeping your home protected. Each shingle consists of multiple layers, each serving a distinct purpose.
1. The Base Mat – The Foundation of Every Shingle
Every asphalt shingle starts with a base mat, which acts as its backbone. This mat is typically made from one of two materials:
- Fiberglass – The most commonly used base today. It’s lightweight, durable, and resistant to moisture and fire.
- Organic Felt – An older method made from recycled materials like wood fibers and paper. While thicker, organic felt absorbs more moisture and is less common today.
2. Asphalt – The Waterproofing Layer
The base mat is then coated with asphalt, which gives the shingle its waterproofing properties. This isn’t the same asphalt used for roads—it’s refined and mixed with fillers like limestone to increase durability and longevity.
3. Granules – The Protective Outer Layer
Mineral granules are embedded on the top layer of the shingle while the asphalt is still warm. These granules provide several benefits:
- UV Protection – Shields the asphalt from sun damage, preventing cracking and deterioration.
- Impact Resistance – Adds strength, making shingles more resistant to hail and debris.
- Color & Curb Appeal – Granules are coated with ceramic pigments to create different colors and styles.
4. Sealant – The Finishing Touch
To ensure shingles stay in place once installed, a special adhesive sealant is applied. This allows shingles to bond together when exposed to sunlight, preventing wind uplift and water infiltration.
How Are Asphalt Shingles Made? The Step-by-Step Process
Now that you know what asphalt shingles are made of, let’s look at how they’re manufactured.
Step 1: Creating the Base Mat
The process begins with the production of the base mat. If it’s a fiberglass shingle, tiny glass fibers are woven together to create a strong, lightweight sheet. If it’s an organic mat, recycled materials are saturated in asphalt to form a thick, durable base.
Step 2: Coating with Asphalt
The base mat is then fed through rollers and coated with hot asphalt. This step is crucial for making the shingle waterproof. The asphalt is specially formulated to resist extreme temperatures and moisture.
Step 3: Applying Mineral Granules
Before the asphalt cools, mineral granules are embedded into the surface. These granules determine the shingle’s color and help protect it from sun damage and impacts. Some manufacturers also add algae-resistant granules to prevent streaking in humid climates.
Step 4: Cutting and Shaping
Once the shingles have cooled and hardened, they are cut into specific shapes. The most common styles include:
- Three-tab shingles – A flat, uniform look
- Architectural shingles – A dimensional, layered appearance
- Luxury shingles – Thicker, high-end shingles that mimic slate or wood
Step 5: Adding Adhesive Sealant
An adhesive strip is applied to the shingles to help them bond together when exposed to sunlight. This is essential for wind resistance and waterproofing.
Step 6: Quality Control and Packaging
Before they leave the factory, shingles go through extensive testing for strength, weather resistance, and impact durability. Once approved, they are bundled, packaged, and sent to roofing suppliers and contractors.
Why Asphalt Shingles Are the Best Choice for Your Roof in Kansas City
With Kansas City’s unpredictable weather, your roof needs to withstand extreme heat, heavy storms, and winter snowfalls. Asphalt shingles are a top choice because they’re:
Affordable Without Sacrificing Quality
Compared to metal, tile, or slate, asphalt shingles offer the best balance of cost and durability. They provide long-lasting protection at a fraction of the price of premium materials.
Built for Kansas City’s Weather Conditions
From scorching summers to freezing winters, Kansas City sees a wide range of weather conditions. Asphalt shingles are designed to resist:
- High winds
- Heavy rain
- Hail impacts
- UV exposure
Low Maintenance and Easy Repairs
Unlike other materials that require specialized care, asphalt shingles are easy to maintain. If a section gets damaged, individual shingles can be replaced without redoing the entire roof.
Aesthetic Versatility
Available in various colors, textures, and designs, asphalt shingles allow homeowners to match their roof to their home’s style.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do asphalt shingles last in Kansas City?
On average, asphalt shingles last 15 to 30 years, depending on the type and maintenance. Architectural and luxury shingles tend to last longer than traditional three-tab shingles.
Are asphalt shingles good for extreme weather?
Yes. Asphalt shingles are designed to handle high winds, heavy rain, and hail. Many modern shingles are impact-resistant and come with wind warranties up to 130 mph.
What’s the best type of asphalt shingle for my home?
It depends on your budget and preferences. Three-tab shingles are the most affordable, architectural shingles offer better durability and curb appeal, and luxury shingles provide the highest level of protection and aesthetic appeal.
Upgrade Your Roof with Robinson Roofing KC
At Robinson Roofing KC, we specialize in high-quality asphalt shingle roofing that is built to last. Whether you need a full roof replacement or minor repairs, our team has the expertise to get the job done right.
As a GAF Certified Plus Contractor, we use only the best materials and follow industry-leading installation techniques to ensure your roof stands up to Kansas City’s toughest weather conditions.
Don’t wait until your roof becomes a bigger issue. Protect your home with high-quality asphalt shingles built to last.Call Robinson Roofing KC today at (913) 626-6161 or email info@robinsonroofingkc.com to schedule your free consultation.
