Choosing the right roofing materials is key to a secure and long-lasting roof. When it comes to shingles, the architectural patterns are sturdy as well as appealing. But what about the ridge caps that sit at the peak of your roof? Can you use architectural shingles for ridge caps? We’re here with an in-depth guide to help you understand the facts.
At Sol Vista Roofing, we try our best to educate homeowners about the roofing industry. We know it’s crucial for you to learn accurate information so that you can make the right decisions for your home. In this article, we will explain whether you can use architectural shingles for ridge caps, and answer all the related questions below.
- Can you use 3-tab shingles for ridge caps?
- What shingles are used for ridge caps?
- Which is the best ridge cap shingle?
- How to install ridge cap shingles
- How much do roof ridge caps cost?
We’ll start by answering the main question, of whether you can use architectural shingles for ridge caps, or not.
Can You Make Roof Ridge Caps With Architectural Shingles?
Some homeowners and handymen may try to use architectural shingles for the purpose of ridge capping, but the truth is, they just won’t fit. Architectural shingles are designed differently and don’t serve the purpose that ridge caps do.
- Ridge caps play an essential role in protecting the most exposed areas on the roof, which is the ridge or the peak. Ridge cap shingles are different from standard shingles. They have a different profile, thickness, and composition than the regular shingles that cover a roof.
- However, this does not mean you should cut architectural shingles and try to craft ridge caps out of them. Their thickness and composition will differ and will not seal the roof ridge properly. Additionally, cutting and refining shingles will loosen the granules and affect their overall integrity and durability.
So, what does this mean? Can you use 3-tab shingles instead? Here’s what you need to know next:
Can You Use 3-Tab Shingles For Ridge Caps?
Like architectural shingles, 3-tab shingles are also not designed to fit the ridge of a roof. They can be cut and installed at the peak, but again, they won’t serve the real purpose of ridge capping.
3-Tab shingles cannot withstand the elements in the way that ridge cap shingles do. These shingles are thinner and less durable than almost any other shingle type, making them more susceptible to wind and water damage. This means that if you use 3-tab shingles for your ridge cap, they may not provide the level of protection necessary to keep your roof safe and secure.
Overall, reliable roofing contractors and good manufacturers will never recommend using other shingles over actual ridge caps. If you are not a roofing professional, you might wonder what type of shingles are used for ridge caps, so we will now answer this question.
What Shingles Are Used For Ridge Caps?
There are different types of roof ridge caps available on the market. The most popular ones include asphalt ridge cap shingles, metal ridge cap rolls, and ridge cap tiles. Each of these options has a unique composition, thickness, and shape, making them suitable for a ridge cap. Ridge caps are available from a number of reputable shingle manufacturers, and they’ve stated the numerous benefits of using them. From extended product warranties to smooth insurance claim approval, using proper roofing materials always comes with benefits.
If you are getting a new roof for your home or upgrading the old one with better roofing materials, here are the top recommendation from our experts:
Best Ridge Cap Shingles For Asphalt Roofing Systems
At Sol Vista Roofing, we highly recommend Owens Corning ProEdge® hip and ridge shingles for your next roofing project. These caps are designed to provide superior protection for your home, which is not possible with a standard option.
- ProEdge Caps have a limited warranty with up to 130 mph wind resistance, ensuring they can stand up to destructive winds.
- Additionally, the StreakGuard™ algae protection technology provides a 25-year algae-resistant warranty, keeping your roof clean and free of unsightly streaks for years to come.
- Finally, you have 24 high-definition color options, so you can easily match the caps to your existing shingle color.
Our experts have used Owens Corning ProEdge® hip and ridge shingles on multiple residential projects and have always been impressed with their durability and performance, so we feel confident recommending these ridge caps. ProEdge® can provide the same level of protection and aesthetic appeal to your home as they’ve provided to all our customers and thousands of homeowners around the country.
After selecting the best ridge caps, the next step is to make sure you are installing them correctly. Otherwise, the product won’t function properly.
How To Install Ridge Cap Shingles
It’s essential to know that you will also need ridge vents installed below the ridge caps. Ridge vents are exhaust vents that allow for proper attic and roof ventilation. They help stale, warm air escape and provide a surface for ridge caps to fit perfectly on. VentSure® Sky Runner LTE™ roll vent is an incredibly effective ridge vent, also developed by Owens Corning.
- After installing the ridge vents, your home is ready to have that perfect ridgeline. Ridge vents and ridge caps are installed by roofing professionals.
- The job involves climbing the peak of the roof, which is extremely risky and requires extra safety measures, special tools, and the right clothing.
- The job demands a roofing license, special equipment, and good experience. So it’s best to leave it to the professionals.
Poor workmanship and roof installation faults are one of the leading causes of roof leaks and costly repair work that’s not usually covered by homeowners insurance. Installation faults and improper maintenance are also the biggest causes behind invalid product warranties and unapproved insurance claims.
When you hire a reliable, licensed, and insured roofing contractor, you take the first step toward a safe, perfect, and economical installation. The installation itself isn’t expensive, and you will save more money in the long run by eliminating any chance of faults or damages.
How Much Do Roof Ridge Caps Cost?
Ridge caps can be installed separately on existing ridge vents, shingles, or other roofing systems like slate, tile, and metal. It does not require replacing adjacent roofing materials unless they are old or damaged.
The cost to replace ridge vents and ridge caps ranges from $200 to $700. The price depends on the materials, the number of ridges to be covered, and the roof pitch, among other factors. If you want to learn more about ridge caps and require the best ridge cap installation services, we are here to help you.
Looking For New Ridge Cap Shingles?
At Sol Vista Roofing, we’ve been installing the most sturdy and beautiful roofs in Denver for many years. Hundreds of Colorado homeowners trust our skilled and experienced roofers because they make sure your roof is safer and more appealing than it was before.
If you need help choosing the right ridge caps for your roof, our experts will be happy to guide you with a free consultation. When you are ready for a flawless roofing service, we’ll schedule a visit for a free roof inspection. We’ll also give you a free estimate on your roof repair or replacement project so that you can plan your roofing project without any obligations.
Call us at (720)-712-3516, and one of our experts will be happy to answer all of your questions.
