There is no question that one of the most important decisions you need to make during any roofing replacement or roofing installation of a shingled roof is what kind of shingle to use. There are many different choices available for shingles to use on your roofing, and the final decision will depend on a lot of factors. Cost, climate and weather in the location of the structure, and aesthetic appeal will all play a part in your final choice.
If you are wondering what the differences between each type of shingle as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each, here is some information to help you make the best shingle choice.
Tile Shingles
One of the not-so-common types of material used on roofing today is tile. People choose this option for their roofing installation because it gives quite an artistic flair to the aesthetics of their home. It can mirror Spanish colonial as well as Southwest architecture. Be prepared that the cost for this good-looking type of roofing is rather high.
Fortunately, tile is quite a long-lasting and durable material, giving you a lifespan of 50+ years. If you take care of it well, you won’t need a roofing replacement any time soon, perhaps even in your lifetime. You need to make sure that your house is structurally capable of handling the extra weight of tiles.
Wood Shingles
If you’re into a bit of an organic look, wood is the material of choice. There are hardwood options such as oak, cedar or cherry redwood that look great and withstand the elements quite well. Wood can last 30 to 50 years, depending on the type of wood you choose and its quality.
Asphalt Shingles
One of the most commonly installed roofing materials, asphalt is often chosen because it looks good, but is truly quite cost-effective. When coated during your roofing installation, it is quite energy-efficient. On the other hand, asphalt roofing normally lasts only 20 to 30 years, a shorter time compared to other choices.
Slate Shingles
As one of the more expensive choices for your roofing replacement, slate is valued because of its incredible durability and beautiful appearance. Real slate shingles can last a very long time when cared for properly, but it is very costly. That is why so many opt to go for a synthetic alternative. Looks the same, but has a slightly shorter life expectancy.
Metal Shingles
Metal is often chosen for homes with non-conventional designs for their roofs, such as steep inclinations and flat roofing. Metal can be used as shingles or as solid sheets and is quite inexpensive compared to the other choices. Despite this, they can last up to 50 years if cared for well.
Choosing a certain type of shingle for your roofing can be quite a daunting task. Remembering to look at costs of roofing installation or roofing replacement along with all the other factors such as weather and aesthetics can make this task easier to accomplish. Once you’ve made a choice, call on a reputable contractor and get that new roof you've always wanted!
