Fiberglass Shingle Mats

Not necessarily.
However, the quality of raw materials used to produce organic mat has diminished since the introduction of organic shingles: cotton rag has been replaced by primarily waste paper formulas or even saw dust! Additionally, either over- or under-saturating organic mat can result in problems. The use of modern fiberglass technology reduces these manufacturing sensitivities and risks.

Are Organic Shingles Bad?

GAF Fiberglass Shingles Are Your Best And Safest Choice

Typical organic shingles spread fire up to 600% farther and faster than fiberglass shingles in the underwriters Laboratories tests.

Fiberglass Has More Protective Asphalt Coating

Organic Mat Almost Always Has Voids...Fiberglass Mat Almost Never Has Voids

Why Fiberglass Technology is a better Choice

Unlike fiberglass, organic mat requires an extra saturating step---exposing the manufacturing process to greater the risk of variation. Uneven saturation can ultimately lead to curling, blistering or buckling, which can affect the weather resistance of the finished shingle. And due to the presence of voids in organic mats, complete saturation is difficult.

It provides the foundation that holds the shingle together!

Quality Mat is Critical...
  

Can exhibit variation in content and consistency from one production run to the next

Contain trace contaminants such as aluminum foil, plastic, and styrene foam that can cause voids

Are Made primarily of waste paper (cardboard, newspaper), wood fiber and other "by-products"

Organic Mats...

Are proven to be both strong and durable

Have a consistent formulation of the glass filers

Utilize modern Technology

Fiberglass mats...

Basic Facts About Today's Shingle Mats