If you’re considering a roof upgrade, you’ve likely come across CertainTeed shingles. Known for their durability and aesthetic appeal, CertainTeed shingles are a popular choice for homeowners. But have you ever wondered how these top-quality roofing shingles are made? Let’s take a journey through the manufacturing process, from raw materials to the finished product that protects your home.
Raw Materials Collection
Every day, thousands of tons of raw and manufactured materials are delivered to freight yards and receiving docks at top tier roofing plants across the United States. These materials will be transformed into high QUALITY durable roofing shingles and specialty products that have earned the respect of countless industry professionals and homeowners.
Shingles made with asphalt as the main ingredient are the most popular shingles sold in the U.S. today. Therefore, the asphalt used at these roofing facilities is processed to meet the stringent quality requirements needed to create strong, yet flexible, shingles.
The main ingredients for CertainTeed shingles are asphalt, fiberglass mat, mineral granules, and limestone filler. Each of these components plays a crucial role in creating the durable, weather-resistant shingles you see on roofs today.
- Asphalt: This is the primary waterproofing agent.
- Fiberglass Mat: Provides strength and structural integrity.
- Mineral Granules: Protect the shingles from UV rays and add color.
- Limestone Filler: Enhances the durability and thickness of the shingles.
Asphalt Saturation
Limestone rock is processed by crushing mills into a fine limestone powder. This powder is then mixed with the asphalt to make a product called filled coating.
On the production line, miles upon miles of rolled fiberglass mat that serves as the backbone of the shingles are rolled out and fed into a coater. This is where the filled coating – super-heated to more than 400 degrees Fahrenheit – is applied to the top and bottom of the mat to create a base sheet. This process ensures that the mat is thoroughly coated, providing the shingle with its waterproof properties.
Coating with Asphalt
After saturation, the mat is coated on both sides with more asphalt. This additional coating helps to further waterproof the shingle and provides a base for the mineral granules. The asphalt used here is modified to withstand extreme temperatures, ensuring that the shingles can endure both hot summers and cold winters.
Adding Mineral Granules
Next, the coated mat is covered with mineral granules. These granules not only give the shingles their color but also protect them from the sun’s ultraviolet rays, which can degrade the asphalt over time. The granules are embedded into the hot asphalt coating, ensuring they adhere firmly to the shingle. These granules are designed to maintain their appearance for the life of the shingle. A thin coating of sand is applied to the base sheet as it is fed into a press that embeds the granules.
Cooling and Cutting
Once the granules are in place, the shingle material is cooled using water. This cooling process hardens the asphalt and granules, creating a solid, durable product. Afterward, a strip of sealant is applied to the sheet in order to give the shingles protection against wind damage. After cooling, complex cutting machines then slice the base sheet into individual shingles of the desired size and shape. They are then stacked and packed into bundles.
Quality Control and Packaging
Before the shingles are packaged and shipped, they undergo rigorous quality control checks. Each shingle is inspected to ensure it meets CertainTeed’s high standards for durability, color consistency, and overall quality. Only after passing these inspections are the shingles packaged and prepared for shipment to distributors and retailers.
Environmental Considerations
CertainTeed is committed to sustainable manufacturing practices. The company utilizes recycled materials whenever possible and employs energy-efficient processes to minimize environmental impact. Additionally, CertainTeed shingles are designed to be recyclable at the end of their lifespan, contributing to a more sustainable roofing industry.
Conclusion
From raw materials to the finished product, the process of making CertainTeed shingles is a blend of technology, craftsmanship, and environmental responsibility. The result is a high-quality shingle that not only looks great but also provides lasting protection for your home. We have been using and installing CertainTeed roofing shingles and vinyl siding for 28 years! We have travelled to the CertainTeed Manufacturer plant In Norwood, MA to view how the production process works. Their manufacturing process is impressive, which is why we have standardized on CertainTeed products for years to come.
Want to learn more about roofing options or need help deciding on the best materials for your home? Contact us for expert advice tailored to your needs.
