Modern engineering gives homeowners an impressive style, yet strong enough to withstand the onslaught of nature’s elements. Learn more about StormMaster roof shingles »

In times past, home construction was offered with an “either/or” option as the only design choice. A design that aimed to create a strong structure usually gave up some elements of style. Conversely, a house that was designed to be cutting-edge stylish, often did not include components of strength.

However, modern engineering has developed new methods to give home owners a house that is impressively stylish, yet strong enough to withstand the onslaught of nature’s elements. These advances are most noticeable in roofing technology because that is the one component of a house that must provide protection to all who live under it and their possessions. Strength is essential. But a roof is also the crown of the residence and its appearance should set the home’s tone of style.

Shingles with Strength

A roof must be able to withstand the impact of hail and wind-driven debris, such as tree branches. It must also stay intact in the face of hurricane-force winds and hold up under the weight of excess snow and ice.

The best roofing shingles that offer the most protection from extreme weather are those that have a Class 4 impact resistance rating, as set by Underwriters Laboratories Code 2218. Roof shingles made with Styrene Butadiene Styrene (SBS), a rubberized polymer that makes a more durable and longer lasting shingle, can help withstand extreme rough weather conditions.

Roof algae may not arrive in the dramatic fashion of hail and hurricanes, but it can have a devastating, detrimental effect. It causes slow destruction as it feeds on the limestone component of shingles, and leaves unsightly stains that discolor the roof. This must be prevented.

Shingles with Style

A roof must be able to withstand the impact of hail and wind-driven rain. It must also be able to face high winds, and hold up under the weight of excess snow and ice.

Homeowners also want their roof to create an attractive look that increases the desired element known as “curb appeal.”

Today, products referred to as “architectural” shingles, are available in larger sizes creating stunning new design patterns. They are manufactured with a sophisticated palette of color blends that give a roof a distinct designer look. The oversized shingle dimensions, distinct shadow lines, and random cuts,ensure the added dimension and charmed look of a multi-layered wood shake shingle.Dimensional shingles can help make your home the envy of your neighborhood.

Shingles that Provide theBest of Both Worlds

One roofing manufacturer has created products that address both the need for durability and strength, as well as the desire for attractive style. Atlas Roofing produces a line of high performance shingles in StormMaster® Slate and StormMaster® Shake. These shingles, made with SBS technology, are Class 4 rated and have proven stability in high impact and strong wind conditions. Atlas Roofing also incorporates Scotchgard™ Protector by 3M to these shingles and offers a Lifetime Limited Warranty against algae streaks and algae stains. Also, each shingle has not one, but two lines of a sealant called FASTAC®and are warranted to withstand winds up to130 mph. Now that’s strength.

StormMaster® Slate and StormMaster® Shakehave also received deep praise for the striking appearance they bring to a roof. These patterns and colors can be seen on the Shingle Visualizer on Atlas Roofing’s website. This feature allows web visitors to see and change shingle colors and styles on pre-selected homes. With just a few easy steps, a customer can design a new roof and digitally save each one they create for easy reference. There is no need for them to visit your competition.

The Shingle Visualizer also has the roofing industry’s first Algae Aging Simulator. This lets customers see a stunning visual comparison between Atlas shingles featuring Scotchgard™ Protector, and others that only have standard algae resistance. It shows how other shingles age quickly while Atlas shingles stay algae-free.