Asphalt Shingle Roofing in Washington State

Asphalt shingles remain the most popular roofing choice for Washington State homes — and for good reason. Modern architectural shingles offer an exceptional balance of performance, aesthetics, and value that makes them ideal for our diverse climate conditions.

Today's asphalt shingles are dramatically different from the basic three-tab shingles installed on homes decades ago. Architectural shingles (also called dimensional or laminated shingles) feature multiple layers of asphalt-saturated fiberglass bonded together, creating a thicker, more durable product with superior wind resistance, impact protection, and visual depth.

For Washington's climate, we recommend shingles with specific performance ratings. In Western Washington, algae-resistant shingles with copper or zinc granules prevent the dark streaking and moss growth that plague standard shingles. In Eastern Washington, impact-resistant shingles (Class 3 or Class 4) protect against hail damage and may qualify for insurance premium discounts.

Wind ratings matter in Washington. Puget Sound storms and Columbia Gorge winds can exceed 60 mph. We install shingles rated for 110-130 mph winds using enhanced nailing patterns that exceed minimum code requirements. This extra attention costs little but provides significant protection.

The most popular asphalt shingle brands we install include GAF Timberline HDZ (130 mph wind rating, excellent algae resistance), CertainTeed Landmark (110 mph, available in 20+ colors), and Owens Corning Duration (130 mph, patented SureNail technology). Each offers different aesthetic options and warranty levels.

Proper installation is what separates a 20-year roof from a 30-year roof. We follow manufacturer specifications exactly — not because it's required for the warranty (though it is), but because it's the right way to build a roof. This includes proper starter strip installation, correct nail placement and count, ice and water shield at vulnerable areas, and ridge vent installation for balanced attic ventilation.

Washington-specific installation considerations include extended ice and water shield coverage at eaves (we recommend 6 feet minimum in Western WA, full coverage in Eastern WA valleys), enhanced drip edge installation, and synthetic underlayment for the entire deck.