When planning a roofing project, understanding the weight of the materials you will be using is crucial. Shingles, a common roofing material, come in various types and weights. Knowing how much shingles weigh per yard helps in logistical planning, ensuring structural integrity, and calculating costs accurately. This article delves into the different types of shingles, their weights, and factors that influence these weights.
Types of Shingles
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material in North America. They are popular due to their affordability, durability, and ease of installation. Asphalt shingles come in two main types: three-tab shingles and architectural (or dimensional) shingles.
- Three-Tab Shingles: These are the traditional asphalt shingles, characterized by their flat, uniform appearance. They are lighter and cheaper compared to architectural shingles.
- Architectural Shingles: These are thicker and have a layered, dimensional appearance. They are heavier and more expensive but offer better durability and aesthetic appeal.
Wood Shingles and Shakes
Wood shingles and shakes are made from cedar, redwood, or other rot-resistant woods. Shingles are machine-cut and have a smooth finish, while shakes are hand-split and have a more rustic appearance.
Metal Shingles
Metal shingles are made from steel, aluminum, copper, or zinc. They are lightweight compared to other types of shingles and offer excellent durability and energy efficiency.
Slate Shingles
Slate shingles are made from natural stone and are one of the heaviest roofing materials. They are extremely durable and have a high-end appearance but are also more expensive.
Clay and Concrete Tiles
Clay and concrete tiles are commonly used in Mediterranean and Spanish-style homes. They are heavy and durable, offering excellent fire resistance and longevity.
Weight of Shingles Per Square Yard
The weight of shingles varies depending on the material and type. Here is a breakdown of the approximate weight of different types of shingles per square yard:
Asphalt Shingles
- Three-Tab Shingles: These typically weigh between 200 to 250 pounds per square yard.
- Architectural Shingles: These are heavier, weighing between 250 to 400 pounds per square yard.
Wood Shingles and Shakes
- Wood Shingles: These weigh around 300 to 400 pounds per square yard.
- Wood Shakes: These are slightly heavier than wood shingles, weighing around 400 to 500 pounds per square yard.
Metal Shingles
Metal shingles are much lighter compared to other types of shingles. They typically weigh between 50 to 150 pounds per square yard.
Slate Shingles
Slate shingles are one of the heaviest roofing materials, weighing between 800 to 1,000 pounds per square yard.
Clay and Concrete Tiles
Clay and concrete tiles are also quite heavy, with weights ranging from 600 to 1,000 pounds per square yard.
Factors Influencing Shingle Weight
Several factors influence the weight of shingles, including:
Material Density
Different materials have different densities, which directly affect their weight. For example, slate and concrete are denser and heavier than asphalt and metal.
Thickness
Thicker shingles weigh more. Architectural asphalt shingles are thicker than three-tab shingles, which makes them heavier.
Size and Shape
The size and shape of shingles also play a role in their weight. Larger and more intricate designs tend to be heavier.
Moisture Content
Shingles, especially wood ones, can absorb moisture, increasing their weight. Proper storage and handling are essential to prevent moisture absorption before installation.
Importance of Knowing Shingle Weight
Understanding the weight of shingles is important for several reasons:
Structural Integrity
The weight of the roofing material affects the structural load on the building. It is crucial to ensure that the roof structure can support the weight of the shingles, especially for heavier materials like slate and concrete.
Transportation and Handling
Knowing the weight of shingles helps in planning for transportation and handling. Heavier shingles require more robust transportation and handling equipment.
Cost Estimation
Accurate weight estimation is essential for calculating the cost of materials and transportation. It helps in budgeting and avoiding unexpected expenses.
Installation Requirements
Different shingles have different installation requirements. Heavier shingles may require additional support and more labor-intensive installation processes.
