Maya Ellison
There has been a long-standing debate about whether shingles have plastic in them and, if so, whether it should be removed. Some people argue that the plastic strips are necessary to prevent shingles from sticking together while in the package and to keep the sealant in place to seal the nails that are driven through. Others argue that the plastic strips are not necessary and can even be a hindrance to the proper adhesion of shingles. Ultimately, it is up to the manufacturer's instructions on whether or not to remove the plastic strips, and failing to follow these instructions could result in damage to the shingles.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic strips on shingles | Prevent shingles from sticking together in the bundle |
| Plastic strips location | Between shingles |
| Plastic strips purpose | Prevent shingles from sticking together, keep sealant in place to seal nails, protect shingles from heat damage, contain warranty information |
| Removal of plastic strips | Not necessary, may damage shingles and reduce roof life |
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What You'll Learn
- Plastic strips are used to keep shingles from sticking together during shipping
- They also prevent the oil in the bituminous seal from soaking through
- Plastic strips have manufacture details and warranty information
- Removing plastic strips can damage shingles and reduce their lifespan
- Plastic strips are not removed during installation and should be left in place
Plastic strips are used to keep shingles from sticking together during shipping
Shingles are a common roofing material, and while they are durable, they can be damaged during shipping if they stick together. To prevent this, plastic strips are placed between the shingles to act as a protective barrier. These plastic strips are crucial in maintaining the integrity of the shingles before installation.
The plastic strips serve a dual purpose. Firstly, they prevent the shingles from adhering to each other by covering the adhesive lines on the shingles. This protective layer ensures that the shingles can be easily separated during installation, facilitating a smoother and more efficient roofing process.
Secondly, the plastic strips help to preserve the tar or sealant used on the shingles. Over time, the shingles may sag under heat, and the plastic strips work to prevent the sealant from seeping into the granules, ensuring proper adhesion and sealing of the nails during installation. This maintains the shingles' effectiveness and longevity.
It is important to note that the plastic strips are not meant to be removed before installation. They are designed to remain in place, hidden under the shingles, even after the roof is installed. This is intentional, as removing the plastic strips can compromise the integrity of the shingles and impact their performance.
However, it is crucial to ensure proper installation practices. Some installers may use a starter strip, which is placed at the roof's edge, running under the shingles. This starter strip enhances the overall stability of the shingles and helps to block the view of the plastic strips, improving the aesthetic appeal of the roof. While the plastic strips are essential for shingle protection during shipping, proper installation techniques, such as using starter strips, are vital for a high-quality and long-lasting roof.
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They also prevent the oil in the bituminous seal from soaking through
Shingles are a type of roof covering that consists of small, flat, rectangular or square pieces that overlap each other. They are typically made from materials such as asphalt, wood, slate, or ceramic. While shingles themselves do not contain plastic, there is often a thin plastic film or strip that covers the adhesive at the top of each shingle. This plastic film serves the purpose of preventing the shingles from sticking to each other while they are bundled together. It also helps to keep the sealant in place, which is necessary for sealing the nails driven through the shingles during installation.
In the context of preventing the oil in the bituminous seal from soaking through, shingles play a crucial role in protecting the underlying roof structure. A bituminous seal, also known as a bituminous slurry seal, is a type of protective coating used in pavement and road construction. It is a mixture of bitumen, aggregates, and other additives that provide weathering protection, fill cracks, and offer skid resistance.
The shingles, along with the bituminous seal, work together to create a durable and waterproof roof system. The bituminous seal is applied to the roof deck or underlayment, and the shingles are then installed on top. The shingles act as a barrier, protecting the bituminous seal from direct exposure to the elements, including sunlight, rain, and wind.
By preventing the oil in the bituminous seal from soaking through, shingles ensure that the seal remains intact and effective. The oil in the bituminous seal is crucial for maintaining the flexibility and waterproofing properties of the seal. If the oil were to soak through the shingles, it could lead to a breakdown of the seal, reducing its effectiveness in protecting the roof from water intrusion and weather damage.
Additionally, shingles with proper ventilation and cooling mechanisms can help regulate the temperature of the roof, preventing excessive heat from affecting the bituminous seal. This is important because high temperatures can cause the bituminous seal to soften, making it more susceptible to damage and reducing its overall lifespan.
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Plastic strips have manufacture details and warranty information
Shingles do contain plastic in the form of strips that serve multiple purposes. These plastic strips are placed at the back of the shingles, covering the tar or adhesive. Firstly, they act as a protective layer, preventing shingles from sticking together while they are in bundles. This is particularly important as shingles are often applied with an asphalt or tar adhesive to enhance wind resistance. By keeping the shingles separate, the plastic strips ensure that the adhesive remains intact and effective.
Secondly, these plastic strips reinforce the shingles when they are nailed into place. The strips provide additional support, helping to keep the shingles securely in position, especially during windy conditions. Over time, the plastic strips will naturally dissolve on their own due to exposure to sunlight and heat. This allows the tar or adhesive to seal the shingles together, creating a strong bond.
Manufacturers play a crucial role in the placement and design of these plastic strips. They strategically position the glue strip on the shingles, considering the specific design, pattern, and exposure requirements. This expertise ensures optimal performance and adhesion for each unique shingle design. However, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding the removal or retention of the plastic strips. Removing the strips can void the shingle warranty and may even damage the shingles, leading to premature roof failure.
The presence of these plastic strips is a testament to the manufacturer's attention to detail and their commitment to ensuring the proper installation and performance of the shingles. By following the manufacturer's guidelines, homeowners can maintain the integrity of their roof and take advantage of the warranty coverage provided. Therefore, it is essential to refer to the specific instructions provided by the shingle manufacturer to make informed decisions regarding the plastic strips and ensure the long-term durability of their roofing system.
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Removing plastic strips can damage shingles and reduce their lifespan
Shingles may contain plastic strips, which are used to keep the shingles from sticking together when they get hot while still packaged. They also keep the sealant in place to seal the nails that are driven through. These plastic strips are not to be removed, as they are designed to be left in place. Pulling them off can damage the shingles and reduce their lifespan.
The plastic strips are placed in a way that they are nowhere near the adhesive strips once the shingles are installed. They are positioned above the glue strips on the course below, making them totally out of the way. However, some people may find these strips unsightly and prefer to remove them. But it is important to note that removing them can cause damage to the shingles.
The removal of plastic strips can result in the partial removal of the shingle body, leading to potential roof damage and a reduced lifespan for the shingles. This is because the cellophane strip is located on top of the glue strip on new asphalt shingles. By pulling on the plastic strip, there is a risk of tearing the shingle and affecting its structural integrity.
Additionally, the plastic strips contain important information such as the manufacture date, model, and factory details, which are necessary for warranty purposes. Removing the strips would result in the loss of this valuable information. Therefore, it is recommended to leave the plastic strips intact to maintain the condition and longevity of the shingles.
While some sources suggest that removing the plastic strips can improve the adhesion between shingles, it is important to prioritize the potential risks associated with their removal. Proper installation practices should be followed, ensuring that the shingles are heated sufficiently to activate the glue and create a secure seal. Any concerns about the appearance of the plastic strips should be weighed against the potential consequences of their removal, as it is generally recommended to leave them intact to maintain the integrity of the shingles.
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Plastic strips are not removed during installation and should be left in place
It is important to understand the role of plastic strips in shingles and why they should not be removed during installation. Shingles are often packaged with small plastic or cellophane strips placed between them to prevent the shingles from sticking together. These plastic strips are designed to be left in place during installation and serve several important purposes.
Firstly, the plastic strips act as a protective barrier, ensuring that the shingles do not adhere to each other while in the bundle. This is particularly important during shipping and storage, as it allows for easy handling and installation without the shingles becoming inadvertently stuck together. Removing these plastic strips before installation can lead to the shingles sticking together, causing installation challenges and potentially damaging the shingles.
Secondly, the plastic strips can contain important information for warranty purposes. Some manufacturers include manufacturing date, model, and factory information on these strips. Removing the strips would result in the loss of this valuable information, potentially impacting future warranty claims or recall processes.
Additionally, the plastic strips play a role in maintaining the integrity of the shingles. In certain types of shingles, the plastic strips help to keep the sealant in place, sealing the nails that are driven through the shingles. Removing the strips can affect the proper sealing of the nails, potentially impacting the overall durability and longevity of the roof.
It is worth noting that there is some debate among roofers and homeowners about the presence of plastic strips. Some people assume that these strips are meant to be removed before installation, believing that they may interfere with the adhesion of the shingles to the roof. However, this is a misunderstanding. When the shingles are installed in staggered courses up the roof, the plastic strips remain on the back of the shingles, positioned away from the adhesive strips of the course below, allowing for proper adhesion without obstruction.
In summary, it is important to leave the plastic strips in place during shingle installation. Removing them can lead to unnecessary complications, including potential damage to the shingles, loss of important warranty information, and improper sealing of nails. Following the manufacturer's instructions and leaving the plastic strips intact helps ensure a proper and durable roof installation.
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Frequently asked questions
The plastic film is a protective cellophane strip that is placed on top of the glue strip on new asphalt shingles. It is meant to keep the shingles from sticking together when they are in the package.
No, it is not necessary to remove the plastic film. Removing it can damage the shingles and reduce the roof's life. The plastic film does not interfere with the shingle tar strips sealing the shingles down to one another.
Removing the plastic film can cause the shingles to not adhere properly to each other. It can also result in the loss of warranty/recall information, as the plastic strips contain manufacture date/model/factory information for warranty purposes.
