Shingles are merely small segments of building material installed above the underlayment, sheathing, and trusses of a roof to beautify and protect your property from outdoor elements. You’ll find they come in a wide variety of materials, each with unique benefits and drawbacks. We’ll cover six types of shingles here and lay out the key differences to help you find the ideal for your roof. The best and easiest way to protect your roof is with shingles – but the number of types out there might make your head spin! In this article, we’ll give you a break-down on the different types of common roof shingles out there so you can pick the one that’s best for you.
Right Roofing Material
Asphalt Shingles
One of the most popular types of shingles on the account of how affordable they are is asphalt shingles. Their advantages don’t end there either as asphalt has some of the largest style choices – with a myriad of colors, designs, and sizes to choose from. Most of them, especially in recent years, are specifically designed to meet or exceed Energy Star standards cutting back on energy costs in homes. The average lifespan of this type of shingle is typically around the 20-year mark, making them one of the most durable. With proper installation and care, they can last over 20 years. As such, they are often fairly easy to fix, with most problems require a simple solution like additional roofing cement or nail. Even more complicated problems can result in a quick fix of cutting out the bad part of the shingle and overlaying it with a new one.
Tile Shingles
This type of material is best for those that want to give their home a more Mediterranean or Spanish look. They can be molded into different shapes and are also much lighter than most other shingles, resulting in less heat absorption. They’re considered one of the most visually appealing on the account of their unique and layered design. The cost of the material and installation can be prohibitive as this is one of the most expensive types of shingles on the market.
Slate Shingles
Like any other expensive material, the price isn’t all upfront – while labor will be a cost to factor in so will the repairs needed. There are few companies that specialize in slate roofs, requiring additional costs if they need to drive far to your home. They also aren’t for every home – slate is heavy and some residential setups can’t contain their weight. The creme-de-la-creme of shingle material types is slate. With a maximum lifespan of a century and having some of the best water resistance, it’s no wonder it is also one of the most expensive.
Choosing the right roof shingles is as just as important as installing them. Therefore, it is always best to have a professional work with you in such a situation. In Brooklyn, NY and the surrounding areas, J. Broni Roofing Inc. is a trusted name when it comes to anything about roofing. Call us at (718) 979-7200 for inquiries.