Shingles Have Improved
Asphalt roofing shingles were originally made with a layer of paper, felt, or wood, and coated with asphalt to make them waterproof. Asbestos was added to increase resistance to fire. Since those early days, manufacturers have worked to develop a shingle that is resistant to the effects of solar damage, wind, and water; that resists damage from impacts; that more than meets standards for resistance to fire and water; that is flexible, long-lasting, and that can be installed efficiently and economically.
Modern asphalt shingles are made with a fiberglass core and several layers of asphalt. There are layers of adhesive to help keep the shingles in place, and the top surface has crushed stone, quartz, or vitrified brick embedded in the upper layer for strength and color. Architectural or dimensional shingles are the best quality, and they are thicker, made with more layers, have a longer life, and provide an interesting texture and color to the roof. Many architects and homeowners feel the dimensional shingles mimic the aesthetics of the old wood and shale shingled roofs. 3-tab shingles are thinner roofing shingles and are an economical way to replace an asphalt shingle roof