Best Roofing Shingles in Canada: Fiberglass vs Asphalt Shingles

Best Roofing Shingles in Canada: Fiberglass Shingles vs Asphalt Shingles

When choosing the best roofing shingles in Canada, homeowners face a critical decision: fiberglass shingles vs asphalt shingles. Both options are widely used across Canada, but which type offers the best value and performance for Canadian homes? This comparison will help you decide which roofing shingles are the ideal fit, based on factors like durability, cost-effectiveness, and resilience to Canada’s diverse weather conditions.

Selecting the Best Roofing Shingles for Canadian Homes

Whether you’re installing a new roof or replacing an old one, selecting the best roofing shingles in Canada is crucial. Canadian weather can be unforgiving, from heavy snow in the winter to intense heat during the summer. This makes it essential to choose roofing shingles that are durable enough to withstand the extreme conditions. While both fiberglass shingles and asphalt shingles are common, it’s important to understand their strengths to make the best decision for your home.

Fiberglass Shingles vs Asphalt Shingles: What You Need to Know

The debate over fiberglass shingles vs asphalt shingles revolves around performance, longevity, and affordability. Both types of shingles have pros and cons, so understanding the differences is key to selecting the best roofing shingles for Canadian homes.

Material Composition

Fiberglass shingles are made with a woven fiberglass mat that is coated with asphalt and covered with ceramic granules. This provides extra protection from UV rays and weather. In comparison, asphalt shingles are made from organic materials like paper or wood fibers and are also coated with asphalt, but they lack the fiberglass core, which makes a significant difference in performance.

Durability and Weather Resistance

Durability is a primary factor when selecting the best roofing shingles in Canada, where harsh weather is the norm. Fiberglass shingles generally last 25 to 50 years, making them more durable than asphalt shingles, which have a lifespan of about 15 to 30 years. Fiberglass shingles are better suited for enduring Canada’s freezing temperatures, heavy snowfall, and intense UV radiation.

Cost Considerations

Cost is an important factor when comparing fiberglass shingles vs asphalt shingles. While fiberglass shingles may have a higher upfront cost, they offer better long-term value due to their durability and low maintenance needs. In contrast, asphalt shingles are less expensive initially but may require more frequent repairs or replacements due to wear and tear from Canadian weather.

Eco-Friendliness

In terms of environmental impact, fiberglass shingles are a better option. They are lighter, which reduces transportation costs and energy consumption during manufacturing. Fiberglass shingles are also more energy-efficient due to their reflective surfaces, which help to reduce cooling costs during Canada’s hot summers.

Why Fiberglass Shingles Are Ideal for Canadian Homes

Choosing fiberglass shingles for your roof provides several advantages that are particularly beneficial in the Canadian climate.

Long-Lasting Durability

One of the biggest reasons fiberglass shingles are considered among the best roofing shingles in Canada is their long lifespan. Their durability makes them ideal for areas that experience extreme weather conditions, such as the cold winters and hot summers found in many parts of Canada.

Lightweight and Easy to Install

Compared to asphalt shingles, fiberglass shingles are lighter and easier to install. This not only makes the installation process quicker but also puts less strain on your roof, which can be important for older homes.

Superior UV Resistance

Another significant advantage of fiberglass shingles is their ability to resist UV radiation. In Canada’s long summer days, UV rays can cause rapid deterioration of roofing materials. Fiberglass shingles provide better protection against this, ensuring that your roof stays intact and looks great for many years.

Energy Efficiency

Given that energy efficiency is an important consideration for homeowners, fiberglass shingles stand out because they reflect more sunlight than asphalt shingles. This reflective quality helps to maintain cooler indoor temperatures during Canada’s hot summer months, ultimately lowering your cooling bills.

Disadvantages of Asphalt Shingles in Canadian Weather

While asphalt shingles remain a common roofing material in Canada, they have limitations, especially when compared to fiberglass shingles.

Shorter Lifespan

One of the key drawbacks of asphalt shingles is their shorter lifespan. In Canada’s harsh climate, asphalt shingles can deteriorate more quickly than fiberglass shingles, often requiring replacement within 15-30 years.

Higher Maintenance Requirements

Asphalt shingles are more prone to cracking, curling, and other forms of wear in extreme weather conditions. This means they require more frequent maintenance compared to fiberglass shingles, which are more resilient to Canada’s extreme temperatures and weather patterns.

Heavier Weight

Traditional asphalt shingles are heavier than fiberglass shingles, which can add additional weight to your roof. In areas of Canada that experience heavy snowfall, this extra weight can increase the risk of structural damage over time.

FAQs About the Best Roofing Shingles in Canada

Which roofing shingles are best for Canadian winters?

Fiberglass shingles are often considered the best roofing shingles in Canada for homes that experience cold, snowy winters. Their durability and resistance to extreme weather make them a better option than asphalt shingles.

How much do fiberglass shingles cost compared to asphalt shingles?

While fiberglass shingles may have a slightly higher initial cost, they offer greater long-term value due to their extended lifespan and lower maintenance needs. Asphalt shingles are cheaper upfront, but their higher maintenance costs can make them more expensive over time.

How long do fiberglass shingles last in Canada?

On average, fiberglass shingles can last between 25 and 50 years in Canada, depending on the specific product and installation quality. In contrast, asphalt shingles tend to last only 15 to 30 years.

Do fiberglass shingles perform better in hot and cold climates?

Yes, fiberglass shingles perform well in both hot and cold climates, making them an ideal choice for Canadian homes. They are resistant to UV damage in the summer and can withstand freezing temperatures during the winter.

Which type of roofing shingles requires less maintenance?

Fiberglass shingles generally require less maintenance than asphalt shingles. Their resistance to cracking and curling makes them more durable, which reduces the need for frequent repairs or replacements.

Final Verdict: Fiberglass Shingles vs Asphalt Shingles in Canada

After comparing fiberglass shingles vs asphalt shingles, it’s clear that fiberglass shingles are the best roofing shingles in Canada for most homeowners. They offer superior durability, better energy efficiency, and a longer lifespan compared to asphalt shingles. Given Canada’s extreme weather, the resilience of fiberglass shingles makes them a smart investment for homeowners seeking long-term value.

If you’re in the market for the best roofing shingles in Canada, consider consulting a professional roofing contractor like Oscar Roofing. Based at 16 Erla Ct, Markham, ON L3S 3B3, Canada, and reachable at 416-880-9692, Oscar Roofing specializes in roofing solutions tailored to Canadian weather conditions. Get in touch at info@oscarroofing.ca or find them on Google Maps for expert advice on the best roofing shingles for your home.