Asphalt Roofing Explained…

When it comes to roofing systems, it can be difficult to know which system will be best suited to your roof, which is why you should work with a professional roofing company when making any decisions. Here at The Russell Asphalt Company, we have decades of experience in roofing systems and we would like to explain one roofing system – the asphalt roofing system.

Asphalt is an aliphatic compound and in the majority of cases is a by-product of the oil industry. Asphalt roofs can consist of asphalt shingles or asphalt membrane, which is usually laid on flat roofs or roofs with very little slope.

A Closer Look at Asphalt Roofing Systems

There are four different types of asphalt roofing. Each of the four types is created by heating it and blowing it with oxygen. The longer the process, the higher the melt-point of the asphalt. Asphalt ages through a process called photo-oxidation which is accelerated by heat, but can last for up to 25 years if it is properly maintained and looked after. Asphalt is incredibly hard wearing, meaning customers can have it on their roofs for many years without any issues at all.

Asphalt roofs can also be repaired more easily than other types of flat roofing systems, such as single ply roofing. This is because the asphalt can be heated up and bonded into the existing roof to repair any issue the roof many have. With single ply roofs, another layer of membrane is stuck over the area that is damaged or leaking, just as you would stick a plaster over a cut on your body. Asphalt repairs bond into the existing material and are therefore believed to be more long lasting.

Asphalt roofing shingles can also be used on roofs that are not flat. From afar they look like traditional shingles, but are more versatile and can be used over a range of roof materials, including timber.

The Installation of an Asphalt Roof

The proper installation of an asphalt roof is something that is a craft and as such, you require a skilled company to do this. This is because, even if a roof is flat, it must have enough pitch in order for rainwater to drain away and avoid any puddles or ponding occurring. Companies who don’t have experience in flat roofing may be unaware of this and this may cause issues with leaks in the future. We have been installing asphalt roofing systems covering both large roof areas and small for decades and have perfected the art of installation to ensure our customers’ roofs are long-lasting and durable.

If you’d like to learn more about the installation of an asphalt roof, or any other type of roofing system, contact our team today who would be delighted to help. We have a team of 10 experienced roofers who can provide advice on which roofing system would be best for your property. Give our friendly and knowledgeable team a call today on 01323 767 776 or email enquries@russellasphalt.co.uk.