Asphalt Roofing Shingles (and the Roofing Lingo You Need to Know)
"We're replacing the roof—what should we actually buy?" We hear that one at the counter every spring and every time a cottage owner opens up after a hard Muskoka winter. Out of all the roofing materials available today, asphalt shingles are still one of the more affordable choices—and for most homes and cottages around here, they're the practical default. This guide covers why asphalt still wins for a lot of jobs, how architectural shingles compare to old-school 3-tab, what wind and hail ratings mean for insurance, how warranties work, how to pick a colour, and the roofing lingo that helps you talk to a rep without getting lost. 🏠 Why Asphalt Still Makes Sense Asphalt shingles are fibreglass mats coated with asphalt and topped with mineral granules. They're widely available, relatively straightforward to install on a proper slope, and they come in a range of looks—from simple to high-end dimensional. For Muskoka homes and cottages, that mix of cost, colour choi...