Residential roofs require shingles to protect the building from natural elements like wind, rain, and snow. These shingles come in many different styles and types, and knowing the differences will help you make a better choice for your roof.
And since every roof is different, homeowners should consider all the available options before making a final decision. Here's more information on the different roof shingles you can consider.
Metal Shingles
If you want to replace your roof shingles, metal shingles could be a good option for you. Metal roof shingles are made from a lightweight aluminum alloy painted with a protective coat. This coat protects metal shingles from rust or corrosion.
Metal shingles offer several advantages, which include:
- Durability. Metal shingles last long and can resist various elements that your residential roof will be exposed to.
- Lightweight. Due to their lightweight nature, experienced roof contractors can install metal shingles without heavy or complex equipment.
- Eco-friendly. Metal roof shingles are an environmentally friendly roofing option, especially since their raw material comes from recycled aluminum alloys.
Metal roofing shingles come in a wide variety of colors and styles, which allows you to choose a type to match your roof. In addition, metal roof shingles are highly customizable and can accommodate unique roof designs.
Wood Shingles
Wood shingles come from high-quality woods such as cider and pine. These natural wood shingles can suffer damage from fire, hail, pests, and mold. That's why they need a top coat and primer paint that your roofer applies during installation. However, the paint on wooden shingles often wears out with time.
To maintain the appearance of your wood shingles, you can reapply the paint if you notice any signs of damage. And since these shingles come from quality wood, you could recycle or repurpose your old shingles as you please.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles come in a variety of styles and finishes, which include:
- Standard or 3-Tab Asphalt Shingles: These shingles have a flat design and require minimal maintenance
- Architectural Asphalt Shingles: Also known as laminated shingles, architectural asphalt shingles can serve you for a long time but require advanced installation methods.
- Premium Asphalt Shingles: Due to their thick layers, these luxury shingles offer resistance to extreme weather conditions.
Asphalt shingles are considered an affordable option because they're inexpensive and relatively easy to install. But before you make any purchase, be sure to ask your roofing contractor for advice on the most suitable design for your roof.
If you notice any problems with your shingles after installation (like visible cracks or curling), contact a roofing contractor immediately to avoid further damage.
For more information, contact a roofing contractor near you.
