Before you decide on a roofing material for your home, you should know about the types of shingles available. In this article, we will discuss the types, cost, life span, and maintenance. We will also discuss which type of shingles will suit your home best. Shingles are made of ceramic granules that are extremely important for their performance. Depending on the type of shingle, these granules may be re-used several times.
Cost
The cost of shingle roofing depends on the material used, as some shingles last for decades, while others need frequent maintenance. The cost of shingle roofing will vary by type, and strip shingles are the least expensive. These shingles are easy to install and come in many different colors. The average lifespan of a strip shingle roof is fifteen to twenty years, and they wear out faster than other types of shingles.
The cost of shingle roofing is typically higher in urban areas than in rural areas, due to material costs rising by double digits. Although producers were hesitant to pass the costs onto consumers, the inflation in labor and property values has trickled down to the larger consumer economy. In addition to material costs, the cost of installing a new shingle roof can be influenced by the state of the roof and type of shingles.
Types
There are two main types of shingles: architectural and three-tab shingles. Both have similarities and differences in cost and durability, but they are not interchangeable. Architectural shingles are thicker and less uniform than 3-tab asphalt shingles, but they have more dimensional appearance and are therefore more expensive. The thickness of these shingles also affects their performance and durability. However, 3-tab asphalt shingles are more lightweight than architectural shingles and are typically the most popular choice among DIYers.
Wood shingles are another type of shingle. They are often made of suitable hardwoods and are very attractive. While they tend to cost more than asphalt shingles, they are more durable and can last for decades if properly maintained. The installation process is relatively simple, and they are also easy to repair and maintain. Depending on how well they are installed, wood roofs can last up to 60 years. Regardless of the type, you will be happy with the look of your home for decades to come.
Lifespan
The life of a shingle depends on the type and the climate. In optimal conditions, three-tab shingles can last 30 years. In areas with more severe weather, however, the lifespan is only seven to ten years. In milder climates, 18 to 20 years is the norm. Three-tab shingles are good choices for homes in temperate climates. They are less durable in harsher climates, which is why they don’t work well in areas that are prone to hurricanes. Also, these shingles fail prematurely if exposed to direct sunlight and have large temperature changes.
Some shingle warranties cover damage or manufacturer defects, but they don’t cover the cost of repairing roof damage caused by falling branches. Although many warranties offer a range of time for replacement or repair, it is important to read the terms and conditions carefully before making a final decision. Manufacturers generally offer warranty plans ranging from 20 to 40 years. A few manufacturers offer extended warranties. These policies can help protect your home from any unexpected surprises.
Maintenance
There are some steps you can take for Shingle Roofing maintenance, and some of these can be done yourself. Taking the time to inspect the roof for cracks and loose shingles is a great way to prolong the life of the shingles. Make sure the flashing around your chimney is in good shape, too. Cracked flashing can lead to leaks. Also, it’s important to check for any algae growth.
A good way to prevent roof damage from the elements is to trim your trees. Over time, the shingles will begin to crack, and this can lead to damage. Luckily, most homeowner policies cover damage caused by trees. However, you should check your policy for details before doing any work on your roof. Shingle roofing maintenance also includes checking your gutters and drainage pipes for cracks and depletion. Having these things checked and maintained will prevent expensive problems down the road.
