In today’s shingle market, there are various types to choose from. New roofs not only add aesthetic beauty to a home or commercial building, but they also offer shelter from storms and climate while reducing your carbon footprint and improving your utility bills. In today’s blog from Legacy Group Exteriors, we explore the different options available and what might work best for your needs.
Appearance
Appearance is important when choosing shingles because they cover so much of your home. Picking the wrong pattern, color or style can make your home feel too busy or mismatched. For instance, you shouldn’t choose clay tile shingles typically found on Spanish Colonial homes on a contemporary structure.
Also, your HOA may have very specific guidelines on what type of roofing materials and colors you can install. Be sure and check with them before buying.
Material
When you’re thinking about appearance, the material the shingle is made from will play a large role. There are seven basic materials to choose from, all with their own positive aspects.
Wood. These can be great if they fit the style of your home, however, local fire codes may forbid them. Wood shingles usually last about 25 years.
Asphalt. This is the most common type of shingle for it’s easy install and low price tag. They will last anywhere from 15 to 25 years.
Clay Tile and Cement. These carry a very distinct look and are typically installed on Mission or Spanish Colonial style homes and buildings. Clay and cement tiles are heavy yet durable and often come with a hefty price tag.
Metal. As well as offering a sleek look, this type of roofing performs very well in high-wind areas. Metal roofs can last up to 50 years.
Slate. These shingles can last anywhere from 80 to 100 years and keep their beauty. Slate shingles are expensive to install and replace.
Synthetic. If you’re looking for ways to reduce your carbon footprint, installing synthetic shingles is one way to do that. These shingles are a mixture of new and recycled plastics, wood, fiberglass, paper, and asphalt. They carry a heavier price tag than asphalt shingles, but they last longer.
Climate
LIke many building materials, some perform better than others in different climates.
High-wind areas. If you live in areas where high winds occur like hurricanes, tornadoes or mountain winds, you will need to look for shingles with a wind-rating of Class-F or Class-G.
Extreme cold and heavy snowfall. Metal and slate shingles have proven to stand up to extreme weather conditions.
Roof Slant
Once you’ve identified what style and material of shingles you want and you know which will work best in your climate, the next thing to consider is roof slant. Asphalt and metal shingles don’t weigh as much as other shingles like slate and clay. Your contractor can tell you what weight of shingles will work best for the slope and pitch of your roof.
Budget
It may go without saying that budget is always a concern with home improvement projects. It’s a fine balance between finding materials that you can afford while still choosing something that will offer protection and a longer life span. Each type of shingle carries a different price point, protection and durability. Your exterior specialist or contractor can give you a quote, incorporating total squares of shingles and installation costs
Roofing From Legacy Group Exteriors
If you’re looking for a trusted partner for your next home project, call the professionals at Legacy Group, Inc. We are a family-owned company that never builds anything we wouldn’t want to live in and show off ourselves. If you have questions about construction services for residential, municipal, commercial or government buildings, contact us today. We’ll install a great roof for you!