Roofing is an important aspect of home maintenance, as it's the main protection against leaks, wind, and weather. When it comes to shingles, there are many different types to choose from, which can make choosing the right type for your roof extremely difficult. Here are some things to consider when deciding which roofing shingles will work best for your home.
Shingle Materials and Styles
Although asphalt shingles remain one of the most common shingle types for homeowners, it isn't your only option. Other roofing materials include:
Metal
Slate
Clay
Wood shake
Solar shingles
There are also a variety of different styles to choose from these days. For asphalt shingles, some of the most popular styles include:
Three-tab
Dimensional
Luxury or designer
Shingle Types
As mentioned, asphalt shingles are the most common type among homeowners. These are also called three-tab (3-tab) shingles. This type of shingles is flat, lightweight, and tends to be more affordable compred to others. Architectural (dimensional) asphalt shingles have a sturdier and heavier base mat and more layers. Since this type has more layers, you get a dimensional look to your roof. Luxury shingles are a type of high-end laminate shingle. They have more definition, richer colours, and elegant designs that add more curb appeal to your home. Solar shingles are integrated directly into your roof. They allow your roof to collect solar energy and have a smoother, more subtle appearance than traditional solar panels. Modern clay roof tiles consist of various materials designed to help them last longer. However, clay is heavy and more expensive to install. Like clay, slate tiles have a unique appearance but also tend to be more costly to install. As an alternative, you can opt for asphalt options that mimic the look of slate but with more durability and less weight. Wood shakes have a distinctive appearance many homeowners love. Cedar tends to be one of the most popular materials used. The downside to wood shakes is that they often require more maintenance. There are certain designer asphalt shingles that can also mimic the look of wood shakes but at a lower price point.
Other Factors to Consider
These days, many homeowners are actively searching for new ways to make their homes greener. Aside from installing smart thermostats and watching your water waste, you can choose a greener roof as well! The roofing material you choose should insulate your home and lower energy costs. Options like solar shingles can create clean energy, whereas metal roofing is recyclable, benefiting the environment. You might want to consider your choices for colour as well, as this can impact curb appeal. Aside from aesthetics, you also want your roof to hold up against weather and the elements. You need to consider your climate, as some roofing materials hold up better against wind, snow, and ice. Algae-resistant options help to prevent unsightly algae from growing on your roof. Lastly, but perhaps most importantly, you need to consider your budget. Certain roofing materials are more expensive to purchase and install. Talk to your local roofing contractors in Scarborough to learn more about your options.
Choose Quality Roofing Shingles for Your Home
The type of shingle you should choose depends on location, personal preference, budget and other factors we covered above. Ensure that the shingles you choose are durable, aesthetically pleasing, and can protect your home from damage caused by the elements. Are you looking for reliable roofing services in Scarborough? Our team at Danforth Roofing Supply Ltd offers many options from asphalt to cedar and more and provides installation, roof repair, and roof replacement services. Send us a message to get started today.