If you are putting a new roof on your home, you may think you’ll just choose whatever roof shingles match the home’s color the best. While that is something to keep in mind, you also have to think about the type of roof shingles you want to work with. These types will have an impact on how your roof functions as a whole and how much money you spend on roofing. Here are 5 types of roof shingles and their uses:
These are the standard roof shingles seen on most roofs. Asphalt roof shingles are durable, inexpensive, and energy efficient. They usually last for about 20 to 30 years. You can buy asphalt shingles in a variety of colors and styles.
Wood roof shingles are obviously made out of wood, most commonly cedar or redwood. They are more expensive than asphalt roof shingles, but they are also more aesthetically pleasing. They can be harder to install than asphalt roof shingles, which means they may cost more in labor as well as materials. Nevertheless, they have a long life span of 30 to 50 years.
Slate roof shingles are extremely durable, and they are often used in the Northeastern portion of the U.S. where slate is quarried. Slate roof shingles are beautiful to look at, and they offer extreme protection against precipitation. They can get expensive to buy, but there are synthetic models out there if the real ones don’t fit into your budget. Slate roof shingles can last up to 50 years without having to be replaced.
Tile roof shingles are often associated with Spanish style homes. They come in a range of bright colors and complement stuccoed homes quite well. These are some of the longest lasting roofing materials on the market, lasting as long as 80 years without being replaced. Nevertheless, tile roof shingles are rather heavy, so your home will need to be strong enough to support the weight of them.
Metal roofs are often used as accents against asphalt roofs, but they are mostly used for flat or steep rooflines. They can be constructed out of solid metal sheets or metal roof shingles. Metal roofs are inexpensive and durable, with most lasting up to 50 years. They are particularly durable against hail and other acts of nature.
Consider all of your options when selecting your roofing materials, and you will be able to get the perfect roof for your home.