Want to know why so many roofs fail before they should?
It’s not always the weather. It’s what they’re made of — and who installs them.
At MK Contractors LLC, we’ve seen what works and what absolutely doesn’t. We’ve replaced more than a few “brand-new” roofs that didn’t even make it to their fifth year. So if you’re wondering, “How are asphalt shingles made?” or “What are asphalt shingles made of?” — good. You’re asking the right questions.
Let’s walk through how shingles are built, why it matters for homes here in Lexington, and what makes a roof truly last.
Why It Matters What Your Roof Is Made Of
In a place like Lexington, your roof doesn’t get to relax.
It’s up against hail in the spring, summer heat waves, fall windstorms, and ice in the winter. That’s four seasons of punishment, every year. So no — not all shingles are up to the challenge.
The truth is, if you don’t know what’s going on above your head, you’re gambling with your biggest investment. We’ve seen the damage that happens when corners are cut or cheap materials are used. And we’ve also seen how long a roof can last when it’s built right from the start.
Let’s break it down.
What Are Asphalt Shingles Made Of?
You might think of shingles as one solid piece, but they’re actually a layered system — and each layer has a job to do.
The Fiberglass Mat
This is the foundation. It’s a mat made of thin glass fibers, woven together and coated in resin. It gives the shingle its shape and strength, helping it resist cracking, curling, and tearing — especially in our up-and-down Kentucky climate.
Asphalt Layer
Next comes the waterproofing. The fiberglass mat is saturated in asphalt — not just any asphalt, but one that’s mixed with fillers like limestone for added weight and flexibility. This layer keeps water out and helps the shingle flex without breaking.
Mineral Granules
These are the little specks you see on the surface. They do more than just add color:
- They protect the asphalt from UV damage
- Improve fire resistance
- Add weight to resist wind
- Can help prevent algae streaks (especially those with copper)
Sealant Strips
Finally, each shingle gets a heat-activated adhesive strip on its underside. When exposed to sunlight, it bonds to the shingles beneath it — creating a wind-resistant seal that holds strong during Lexington storms.
So, How Are Asphalt Shingles Actually Made?
Here’s what happens behind the scenes at the manufacturing plant.
Step 1: The Fiberglass Foundation
It starts with glass fibers woven into a mat. That mat is coated in resin and baked to create a stable, durable base.
Step 2: Asphalt Application
The mat then passes through a vat of molten asphalt, which coats and saturates the material completely.
Step 3: Granule Pressing
While the asphalt is still warm, mineral granules are pressed into the top layer. These lock in place to add strength, style, and UV resistance.
Step 4: Cutting and Sealing
The sheets are cooled, cut into shingle shapes, and fitted with sealant strips. Then they’re bundled and shipped to roofing companies like ours — ready to be installed the right way.
Why Asphalt Shingles Work So Well in Lexington
We’ve worked with every roofing material you can name, and asphalt shingles are still our go-to for most homeowners. Here’s why:
They Handle the Weather
A good shingle can withstand:
- Wind speeds up to 130 mph (depending on the grade)
- Impact from hail and falling debris
- Drastic temperature swings
- Heavy rain and snowmelt
And when installed correctly, they flex instead of crack — which is huge in Kentucky’s freeze-thaw cycles.
They’re Stylish Without Being Overpriced
From classic three-tab designs to bold architectural shingles with deep shadow lines, asphalt shingles come in styles that boost your curb appeal. We work with trusted names like Owens Corning, GAF, and Atlas — so your roof doesn’t just perform; it looks good doing it.
They’re Affordable and Reliable
Compared to tile, metal, or slate, asphalt shingles give you solid protection at a cost that makes sense. Whether you’re repairing damage or replacing a whole roof, they deliver long-term value without draining your budget.
What Most Contractors Won’t Tell You
You can buy the best shingles on the market — and still end up with a bad roof.
Why? Because even the best products fail if they’re installed poorly. Rushed jobs. Skipped steps. Ignored details. We’ve seen it all. And unfortunately, so have a lot of homeowners — often too late.
That’s why we do things differently at MK Contractors LLC. We:
- Walk you through every step
- Document the process
- Use brand-name materials
- Follow manufacturer guidelines
- Offer a 10-year workmanship warranty
No shortcuts. No pushy upsells. Just the truth, the work, and the results to back it up.
Thinking About a Roof Replacement? Here’s What to Do Next.
If you’re asking questions like “How are asphalt shingles made?” or “What are asphalt shingles made of?” — you’re not just browsing. You’re preparing to make a meaningful investment in your home, one that protects your family, your finances, and your peace of mind for years to come. At MK Contractors LLC, we’re here to help you make that decision with clarity and confidence. Reach out to us at (859) 551-8982 or send us an email at INFO@MKCONTRACTORSLLC.COM to schedule your free inspection. We’re honest, experienced, and committed to doing the job right—every single time.
