View Larger Image

An In-Depth Look at Shingle Roofing!

Shingle roofing is the most popular type of roof used on homes of all types throughout the country.

Available in many types, shingle roofing replacements are a favored roofing option for their many positive qualities.

This summary of the many options available from shingle roofing contractors should help homeowners understand their many choices and why shingles are and have been for centuries a favorable roofing choice.

1. Shingles By Design

The roofs installed by shingle roofing companies are highly resilient and waterproof, regardless of their materials.

Though some materials are more durable than others, all shingle roofing benefits from the same water-shedding design of components, stacked and staggered from the bottom up, flowing water downward, preventing it from seeping under the materials.

This design is not only waterproof and breathable as minimal adhesives are used, but it is also easy and quick to install or repair and self-protective should one or two shingles break off.

2. Shingles Come In Many Types

While asphalt shingles are easily the most recognized product installed by shingle roofing contractors, shingles come in a wide variety of types.

Among the options are wood shingles, wood shakes, rubber shingles, composite plastic shingles, metal shingles, solar shingles, and slate as well as ceramic tile, both of which are technically shingles.

In fact, most of the systems installed by roofing companies onto pitched roofs are some form of shingles.

3. A Wide Variety of Styles and Colors

Whether choosing asphalt, metal, composite, or tile, homeowners investing in a shingle roofing replacement can choose between a variety of colors and shades to complement their homes.

Wood and shakes are also available in a variety of woods that age to different shades or can be stained or painted as desired.

4. Shingle Roofing Costs

Just as there is a huge variety of shingle types and styles that roofing contractors can install on a home, there is a huge price range for these products as well.

At the lower end of the price scale are standard asphalt 3-tab shingles, which are the least expensive material available, followed by premium asphalt, metal, composite, ceramic tile, slate, and then solar shingles.

It should be noted that lesser and higher grades of any of these products are sold at lower and higher price points that correspond with higher quality, added performance features, and many other factors.

5. Maintenance and Longevity of Shingle Roofing

A properly installed shingle roof, regardless of the type, is naturally water-resistant and protective as long as it is well-maintained.

Though wood may require more maintenance, most other types are fairly maintenance-free, other than keeping them clean and making any needed repairs over time.

Similarly, the many types have different life expectancies, with slate and tile lasting as much as 100 years or more, metal lasting 50 to 75 years, asphalt ranging from 15 to 45 years depending on quality, and wood lasting 20 to 25 years.

Many Great Shingle Roofing Replacement Options to Choose From

When the time comes for a new roof, shingle roofing replacement is a great option for most homeowners considering the wide assortment of shingles available to choose from.

An experienced shingle roofing contractor can make recommendations based on the local weather, the house, and the homeowner’s budget and personal tastes.

Contact a local shingle roofing company to discuss the options and pick the perfect shingles for any house!