A roof is one of the most important elements in a house. Apart from protecting your valuables, it also maintains the integrity of the structure while enhancing your home’s appeal. With such a wide range of available options, choosing the right shingle for your roof can sometimes be overwhelming. So, where do you start? You should also remember that the choice you make will affect both the look of your home as well as the costs you will incur. And that’s why you need to get it right from the word go. Here are some considerations to make.
Material
Roofing shingles are available in different materials – from wood, tile, slate and asphalt. However, you need to remember that not all materials can work for your home. Some like tile and slate tend to be heavy, and therefore require strong trusses for support. If your roof has a flat, low slope, then it can support more weight as compared to one with a steep pitch. Also, roofs that have more details such as turrets, dormers and chimneys are quite limiting when it comes to material selection. Furthermore, roofing options like tile, slate and wood can give your home a luxury appeal. However, they come with a high price, which you also need to consider.
Asphalt shingles are the most popular. Most people prefer them because they are durable and easy to install. Apart from that, they are compatible with most architectural styles. Asphalt shingles come with a fibreglass medium, which is enhanced with asphalt combined with sand-like granules. The sand-like granules and the asphalt act as sealants, thus improving the waterproofing and safety of your home. Due to their high levels of durability, asphalt shingles can last for up to 30 years with regular maintenance.
If you opt for asphalt shingles, you still need to choose between organic and fibreglass. Organic shingles are made of paper, cellulose, wood and other natural materials. These materials are then combined with asphalt. As much as they are durable, they are not compatible with all homes. Also, organic asphalt shingles are vulnerable to warping. Therefore, if you live in an area that experiences harsh winters, then you should avoid them. On the other hand, fibreglass shingles provide a more durable and less expensive option. They are made of fibreglass sheets, which are cheaper to make as compared to organic materials. Furthermore, fibreglass shingles are thinner, lighter and eco-friendly. Most importantly, they are highly fire resistant, thus making them an important safety addition in your home. They are also aesthetically appealing.
Shingle Color
Decorating your home should not be reserved for the interiors only. People first see the exterior appeal, before stepping indoors. Therefore, you need to show off your personality, starting with the color of the roof. Shingles are available in a wide range of colors, from the standard black to green, red, grey, and blue, among others. Lighter colors make the attic cooler. When choosing the color of your shingles, you also need to factor in the trim colors, the style of your home, siding colors as well as personal preferences, among other considerations. For instance, if you want a warm feeling, then you should select shingle colors that complement the siding. If you have a dark siding, then you should choose lighter shingles and vice versa.
Brand and Warranty
When it comes to roofing options, selecting the right brand for the shingles is vital. Different brands offer different roofing materials as well as quality. It’s always advisable to deal with a company whose shingles come with GAF warranty. GAF’s warranty covers installations, as well as removals and disposals. They also provide a higher level of security as compared to the other brands. As much as you may have to pay for shingles with a longer warranty, you are assured that you are dealing with a legitimate company. You can also rest assured that your roof will stay for approximately 20 or 30 years, thus giving you peace of mind. Always purchase shingles from an established manufacturer instead of a roadside startup that promises you the moon but will not be around long enough to honour their promises.
Consider Energy Efficiency
Certain shingles can insulate your home and minimize energy losses. For instance, darker colors absorb heat while lighter colors reflect it. Also, metal roofs tend to be more effective when it comes to blocking out the sun’s heat as compared to ordinary shingles. Asphalt shingles absorb and trap heat inside while metal roofs reflect it. The good news is that if you choose asphalt shingles, you can add various enhancements to your home to improve their energy efficiency. On the other hand, you might enjoy some federal and state rebates if you install energy efficient shingles, and this is where cost considerations come in. Some shingles might be cheaper than others, although they might lead to higher energy bills. Therefore, as you choose shingles, consider the issue of energy efficiency versus costs and then decide accordingly.
Consider Your Home’s Architectural Style
As noted earlier, different shingles are compatible with different styles. Therefore, as you make a decision, you first need to consider your home’s architectural style. If your home has a classic look, then you should complement it with classic color palettes. On the other hand, if your home has a historical appeal, then it’s advisable to use shingles that retain its traditional appearance. Natural slate tiles usually work best with colonial and Victorian homes. You also need to pay attention to the features in your home such as walls, windows, and porches and then choose shingles that complement them.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right shingles for your roof is something that you need to take seriously. As you probably know, your choice will affect the safety and protection of your family. You also want to ensure that you are getting value for your money, which means that the shingles you have chosen can withstand extreme weather conditions while enhancing the beauty of your home. The right choice can save you plenty of money along the way as well as stress. Therefore, as you make your decision, take as much time as possible. It’s also wise to consult roofing experts for professional advice.
