Construction and Materials
Owens Corning offers a comprehensive range of roofing solutions designed to protect and enhance homes. Their product lines include both roll roofing and shingles, each engineered for durability and aesthetic appeal.
Roll Roofing Construction and Materials
Owens Corning's roll roofing is primarily constructed for low-slope or flat roof applications, often found on garages, porches, and additions. The core of the roll roofing is typically a strong fiberglass mat, providing dimensional stability and tear resistance. This mat is then saturated with asphalt, which acts as a waterproofing agent and binder for the mineral granules.
- Substrate: A durable fiberglass mat forms the base of the roofing material.
- Asphalt Saturation: The fiberglass mat is thoroughly saturated with asphalt to ensure excellent waterproofing.
- Granule Surface: A protective top layer of mineral granules is applied to the asphalt-coated surface. These granules offer several benefits:
- Protection from UV radiation, which can degrade the asphalt.
- Enhanced fire resistance.
- Aesthetic appeal, available in various colors to complement building designs.
- Backing: The underside of the roll roofing may feature a self-adhering backing or a release film, depending on the specific product type, facilitating easier installation.
Shingle Construction and Materials
Owens Corning is widely recognized for its asphalt shingle offerings, which are suitable for sloped roof applications and are a popular choice for residential buildings. These shingles are engineered with multiple layers to provide robust protection and longevity.
- Substrate: Similar to roll roofing, the foundational layer is typically a fiberglass mat. This provides a strong and stable base for the shingle.
- Asphalt Coating: The fiberglass mat is coated with specially formulated asphalt. This asphalt serves as the primary waterproofing layer and holds the granules in place.
- Granule Layer: The top surface of the shingle is covered with ceramic-coated mineral granules. These granules are vital for:
- Shielding the asphalt from damaging UV rays.
- Providing resistance against fire and impact.
- Contributing to the aesthetic appeal with a wide palette of colors and designs.
- Adhesive Strip: A specially formulated adhesive strip is integrated into the shingle design. This strip, activated by sunlight after installation, fuses adjacent shingles together, creating a monolithic barrier against wind uplift and water penetration.
- Performance Features: Many Owens Corning shingles are engineered with advanced features such as algae-resistant treatments (e.g., using copper-containing granules) to prevent unsightly staining and prolong the aesthetic appearance of the roof. Some product lines may also incorporate reflective granules to help reduce attic heat, contributing to energy efficiency.
The specific construction and materials can vary across Owens Corning's diverse product lines, with options designed to meet different performance needs, climate conditions, and architectural styles.
