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1. 
   Ken_Layfield | Dec 07, 2001 05:23am | #1

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   Kate, IKO or ick oh as I prefer to call them is a brand of good asphalt three tab shingle. They are graded by years of durability (ie 15, 25, 30 years). The longer the years the more expensive the shingle generally. Remember the labour time is exactly the same for cheap or expensive shingles. So put on the best quality possible. As for fiberglass, they seem to have more flexibility as for more durable, I can't say.

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   Mike_Smith | Dec 07, 2001 05:59am | #2

   *either oraginc mat or fiberglass mat is fine.. roofer preference..go for the longer durability from each mfr...my favorite for your area is Certainteed... ..IKO is fine..my house.. 40 year shingle or nothing...

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   John_Carroll | Dec 07, 2001 06:12am | #3

   *Kate, There has been a problem with cracking and splitting in fiberglass shingles. To deal with this problem ASTM came up with a new standard, ASTM Standard D 3462. The National Roofing Contractors Association suggests that, if you use fiberglass shingles, you make sure that they meet this standard. Essentially, this means that a given type of shingle has been tested for tearing, cracking and splitting and it has passed the test. If it has passed this standard, it will say so on the bundle wrapper. Asphalt shingles haven't had a problem with cracking but they don't have as high a fire rating as fiberglass shingles and they don't claim to last as long.

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   Kate_DeWolf | Dec 07, 2001 05:05pm | #4

   *thanks to those who have replied--this is helpfulKate DeWolf

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   Kate_DeWolf | Dec 07, 2001 05:05pm | #5

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   Ignorant home designer here needs a primer on asphalt shingles. I know I saw an article recently comparing fiberglass reinforced shingles vs. regular. What shingles are best for standard residential construction in Boston? The project in question is a renovation & addition to a small house. Existing house has 3 layers of shingles that must be removed. The builder wants to use IKO and I don't know anything about shingles. Thanks so much--I love this forum.