Shingles are the most popular roofing used today for roof replacements, but not just the asphalt shingles most people think of.
There are many different materials installed by shingle roof services these days and while asphalt shingles are extremely popular for a variety of reasons, homeowners are not limited to just those!
Explore these different roofing materials that shingle roof contractors can install and understand the positives and negatives of each to make the best roofing choice.
1. Asphalt Shingles
A highly common and very popular shingle used for roof replacements, asphalt shingles made from layers of fiberglass felt coated with protective asphalt granules come in standard 3-tab flat style plus thicker architectural and dimensional types in beautiful shapes and styles that mimic other materials.
Asphalt shingles installed by roof contractors are affordable in comparison to many other options, long-lasting sometimes up to 50 years, and available in styles that are wind-resistant, fire-resistant, impact-resistant, and thermal-resistant, making them extremely popular materials for good reason.
The main disadvantages are that they can buckle or blister if attic spaces are not properly ventilated and they can be blown off or broken during high winds or cracked by hail.
2. Wood Shingles
One of the oldest natural types of shingles ever used, wood gives any home or building a beautiful, classic look.
Environmentally friendly, machine-cut wood shingles installed by shingle roof services will last 20 years or so, can be stained or left natural, and are only slightly more expensive than asphalt.
Yet there are several negatives to this type of roof including the considerable need for maintenance that includes periodic pressure-washing and wood sealing and the fact that wood is not suitable for especially hot or wet climates as it degrades faster, will rot if it stays damp, can crack and split, and is not at all fireproof.
3. Slate Shingles
Slate is another natural material that has been in use for shingle roof replacements for centuries as it is readily available, beautiful, and extremely durable, lasting 100 years or more when well maintained.
Though slate shingles can be chipped or broken by large hail, they withstand most other weather conditions, are less likely to be blown off, are fire-proof, and are extremely thermal-efficient; as well.
All of those positives come with a few negatives, the main ones being their high cost and considerable weight, which can make slate shingles prohibitive for many structures.
4. Clay and Concrete Shingles
Like slate, natural clay and concrete shingles installed by roof contractors are highly durable, can last a century or more, are very thermal-resistant, are eco-friendly, and are available in beautiful styles like Spanish tile and concrete molded to mimic other materials as well as a multitude of colors.
Both are highly energy-efficient and fire-proof, making them ideal in hot climates or where wildfires are common.
The main disadvantages of clay and concrete are their significant weight and higher cost in comparison to many other materials plus they can chip or break if impacted.
5. Metal Shingles
Metal shingles are a lesser-known product, but one that comes highly recommended by shingle roof services for those who want the benefits of metal with the look of shingles.
Made of various grades of sheet metal pressed into panels that look like shingles made from a variety of other materials, metal shingles are fire-proof, durable, and energy-efficient, with lifespans of 50 years or more.
They require minimal maintenance and come in styles and colors to match any taste, at a cost only slightly higher than asphalt.
The biggest negative to metal is it can sometimes be noisy unless extra underlayment is used.
6. Composite Shingles
Composite materials used for roofing are made from a combination of rubber, plastic, and polymers, creating a tough, long-lasting, and almost indestructible shingle that lasts for 50 years or more.
They are produced to mimic the look of wood, slate, and other materials, come in a variety of colors, can be recycled, and are made in types that are UV-resistant, impact-resistant, and fire-resistant.
The biggest downfalls are their high price and the lack of contractors skilled in how to install these materials.
7. Solar Shingles
Solar roofing comes in more than just panels, with numerous shingle roof replacement products now available on the market.
Applied either as the roofing itself or on top of it, solar shingles are more durable than panels, fire-resistant, weather-resistant, and now made to look more like an asphalt roof, too.
The main disadvantages to installing solar shingles are the cost and the that they must be installed by a trained contractor.
Yet they can generate enough power to entirely run most households, making them very cost-efficient.
Ready To Choose A Great Shingle Roof Replacement?
With so many types of shingles that roof contractors can install on a home or building, there is a lot to consider!
To choose the best one, home and building owners can contact a trusted local shingle roof service to discuss all of these types to make the most informed decision!
About
If replacement of a roof is needed and shingles are being considered, the pros at Griffin Roofing know all about shingle roofs and are ready to help clients in need of a new roof.
When looking for experienced and trusted roofers, be sure to contact Griffin Roofing for expert roofing replacement and repairs – call them at (404) 998-8984 to schedule an appointment for a roof inspection!
