Asphalt shingles are by far the most commonly used option for covering a residential roof. There is no doubt about it, the fact that they are relatively inexpensive and durable make them the most popular roofing option.

Asphalt shingles are basically made of either fiberglass or paper backing soaked with tar. Then by using adhesive, small granules are embedded onto backing. The process described makes the shingle waterproof and makes the shingle more resilient to wear and tear caused by weathering.

Other than pricing, another factor that makes asphalt shingles so popular is the fact that they can make a home very attractive. There are many different manufactures, each with their own color options giving the homeowner a simple and inexpensive way to greatly improve the overall curb appeal of his home.

Manufacturers of asphalt shingles all comply with standards set by the roofing industry, however the quality of the tiles may vary depending on brand. A good way to determine the quality is by closely examining the warranty offered by the maker backing the product. For the most part you will see a range of warranties anywhere from 5 to 10 years. However in some instances you can find warranties on the higher end of 20 to even 30 years. This type of guarantee will likely come from one of the top asphalt shingle producers, and you can expect the price of the shingles to reflect so accordingly.

When looking at the overall project, keep in mind that you can tell the difference between a 5 year manufacturer’s backed shingle and one which is guaranteed for 20 years. The cheaper shingle will appear flatter, may be less decorative and most importantly may have less surface granule content. You will also be much more limited when it comes to selecting color and pre-made trim options. The best option to take for the average homeowner would be to find a mid-range shingle with a decent warranty. This way you can have a very nice looking roof for a moderate price.

Asphalt shingles are easy to install, however due to the need for tools, carpentry skills, ventilation and weather considerations, roofing a house with asphalt shingles is best left to professionals. The end result of a newly shingled house is beauty at an inexpensive price. With cost and time savings considered, asphalt roof shingles are often the way to go when you are deciding on a new roof for your home.

You can learn more about roofing shingles, and get much more information, articles and resources about roof shingles by visiting Roofing Shingles

Tim Carter, of AsktheBuilder.com, demonstrates just how easy it can be to replace a broken roof shingle.

Trying to decide if a roofing nailer will make life easier will depend on the definition of easier. Something else to consider is this; are you a professional roofer in need of a professional nailer? Or, are you a home owner and are looking for a nailer to help you make your own repairs? If you decide to go ahead and purchase a roofing nailer you will need to be decided on the type based upon your needs (like everything else…). Keep in mind that nailers are available with pneumatic power, electric and rechargeable, and made by various manufacturers.

To put it simply, a roofing nailer will save your arms and hands from pounding with a hammer all day long. The other nice add is that since most nailers have adjustable power settings; you don’t have to worry about over driving a nail into the roof, damaging your new roofing material. This can be especially helpful if installing slate or tile roof since too much power can crack one of the expensive tiles. On asphalt shingles too much power can tear through the shingle and, if left unnoticed, this can cause a leak in the future.

The first feature to look at is a nailers durability. It will have to hold up to hours on a hot roof without being damaged by the sun. It should also be able to live through a two-story drop onto the ground or concrete without breaking into a thousand pieces. Typically, no matter careful you think you’re going to be; you will no doubt drop your nailer from the roof at least once.

Choosing Clutter Or Convenience

While most professionals swear by a pneumatic roofing nailer there are some who are not interested in being connected by a long air hose and having to have an air compressor running all day. Although they can usually be adjusted for air power of between 70 and 120 pounds per square inch, they can be tough to maneuver in tight spots such as under second story eaves or around chimneys.

An electric power roofing nailer obviously does not require the air compressor but the user will still be dragging a long extension cord behind them as they work. Something else to consider is that adjustable depth gauges and built-in features to help keep nail lines straight into the shingles, while they’re great on paper, can make the nailing gun slightly heavier than a pneumatic roofing nailer as the driving power is located in the nailer itself.

Most rechargeable roofing nailers have the same power, with a minimum voltage of around 20, and do everything the electric roofing nailer can do. Typically, most companies claim the battery charge lasts long enough to nail down about two square of roofing material. Extra batteries are available for use on large jobs, but the ability of them to survive a 15 of 20-foot fall is questionable.

So before you buy check out the manufacturers specs and see if they’ll meet your needs. Consider how much use you’ll be giving the nailer and what kind of roofing you’ll be doing. With these things in mind you’ll be on your way to selecting the ‘perfect’ nail gun for your needs.

Be sure to check out our store for a complete line up of roofing nailers.