The Different Types of Roofing Shingles
Today, we have another educational post to teach you all about the different types of shingles you’ll find available today. We’re excited to explain the pros and cons of each type of Shingle, and how that can affect the energy efficiency of your home and the budget you have to work with.
At RC Roofing, we’re always happy to help our customers make the best possible decision for their home roofing projects in Oklahoma City.
Here’s the breakdown of shingle types that you should know:
1.Asphalt
This type of shingle has been around for quite a long time now, and is widely used as the “go to” shingle for millions of homes across the United States. Asphalt shingles are cheap, durable, relatively straightforward to install and are also reasonably energy efficient.
The simple fact that it’s so cheap makes this type of shingle very popular with homeowners, but it’s not always the best choice for every home. For example, it doesn’t cope very well with extreme temperatures and is far better suited to a climate where temperature spikes and dips aren’t very common.
You can expect a professionally fitted asphalt shingle roof to last roughly 30-years, although the lifespan of this type of shingle is constantly being improved. Asphalt shingles are exclusively made with fiberglass and asphalt.
2.Wood
For some reason people always assume that wooden shingles are a relatively new introduction to the roofing industry, when these shingles have been for centuries. Most types of wood shingles come from redwood, red cedar, pine and cypress trees.
If your budget allows, then wood shingles are a great choice because of their durability, look and a high-energy efficiency rating. So you get a great looking roof and you’ll also save money on your energy bills. A properly fitted wooden shingle roof can last up to 50-years, but it does come at a premium price. Wood shingles obviously aren’t very fire resistant and need additional treatments to ensure they can endure harsh weather conditions.
3.Tile
Most homes in hotter European countries have tiled roofs instead of using wood or asphalt shingles. Obviously in some Mediterranean countries a tiled roof is a statement of culture as much as it is a part of a stylish, or functional, exterior design. Tiled roofs can last for several decades, but this type of roof covering is far more expensive than most other shingles, and it does take an experienced roofing contractor to fit a tiled roof correctly.
4.Slate
Most European homes in colder climates use slate as their primary form of shingle because they are completely water resistant by nature, with no need for any additional treatments or coatings to protect them. They’re also extremely durable, with a slate roof can last up to 100 years, and beyond in many cases. Another reason why this form of shingle is so popular is because it copes very well with temperature extremes – something many states have to deal with on a regular basis.
You don’t need to become an expert in roofing shingles to understand the basics, and as long as you understand the basics you can ensure your roofing contractor is doing a good job.
Call 405-759-0388 today for your free estimate!
