If there is one critical part of a house’s exterior, it would have to be the roof. It protects your home from all kinds of weather and adds so much to your home’s visual appeal and value. For this reason, choosing the right kind of shingles for your roof is important for both functionality and curb appeal. There are so many options available that it could become very confusing, trying to know which shingle is the right one for your home. This ultimate guide will help you navigate the choices and make an informed decision.
Types of Shingles
Several types of shingles are available in the market, each having its benefits and drawbacks. Following are the most common types:
Asphalt Shingles
Pros: Inexpensive, widely available, easy to install, available in a variety of styles and colors.
Cons: Shorter lifespan compared to other materials, can be susceptible to wind damage.
Wood Shingles
Pros: Natural look, good insulation properties, and—provided it is well-maintained—it could last as long as 30 years.
Cons: These shingles are quite costly, requires constant maintenance, and is prone to fire and insect damage.
Metal Shingles
Pros: Tough material, energy-efficient, and their life expectancy spans up to 50 years; moreover, they are fire-resistant.
Cons: Higher upfront cost; addition of coat hangers makes them a little noisier during rain or hail; some will require professional installation.
Slate Shingles
Pros: Very hard, long-lasting—some over 100 years in age—has that natural, elegant look, and is fireproof.
Cons: Very heavy, expensive, and requires professional installation.
Tile Shingles
Pros: Very long-lasting (up to 100 years), resistance to fire, comes in a variety of styles and colors.
Cons: Very expensive, heavy, sometimes brittle, and prone to breakage.
Synthetic Shingles
Pros: Light, inexpensive, available in a wide variety of styles, resistant to impact and, in many versions, resistant to fire.
Cons: Newer product; minimal data on the product’s longevity is available; looks less natural than other products.
Things to Consider
When choosing the right shingles for your home, consider the following:
Climate:
Choose the type of shingles that will tolerate your local weather. For instance, generally, metal shingles are highly rated in high snowfall areas, while asphalt does well in modest climates.
Budget:
Decide on a budget for materials and installation. Many types are expensive up-front but pay off with maximum service life and great durability.
Aesthetics:
Notice the architectural style of your home, then pick the kind of shingles that will complement its design. This includes checking on color, texture, and general outlook to ensure that the shingles enhance the curb appeal of your home.
Durability:
Check on the life span and durability of the shingles. Obvious, the quality and durability of the shingles should enable one to avoid frequent repairs and replacements.
Some shingles reflect and insulate better than others, helping to reduce your energy bills. Seek out an Energy Star rating on the shingles for this purpose.
Maintenance:
You must consider the maintenance needs of the shingles since some materials, such as wood, require constant upkeep, whereas metal and synthetic shingles are low maintenance.
Roofing Installation and Warranty
Professional Installation:
Professional roofing contractors ensure that the shingles are installed appropriately and effectively, which impacts the performance and life of your roof.
Warranty
The manufacturer’s warranty on the shingles is another consideration in your purchase decision. A good warranty sets you at ease; that is, it protects your investment against defects or untimely wear and tear.
The right kind of shingles for your home will have to zero in on factors such as climate, budget, looks, and durability. Being familiar with the different types of shingles and analyzing your particular needs will help in arriving at a decision that is just great and will surely say your roof more than just protects your home; it’s also about enhancing its beauty and value.
