As any homeowner who’s considering a roofing project knows, shingles come in a wide variety of shapes and colors. This is great for those wishing to customize the look of their roof but it can, at times, be a bit overwhelming. When deciding upon a shingle design, it’s important to keep in mind the ultimate look and feel of your home in addition to the type of protection you want. Additionally, the actual condition of your roof will determine which type of shingles you decide upon because one has to consider any additional weight your roof will support.
Asphalt shingles, also known as composition shingles, are by far the most common roofing material as they account for nearly 90% of residential roofing jobs in the United States. Many contemporary shingles offer Minnesota Contractor Insurance Requirements unique design options as well as long-lasting warranties. Thus, it’s important when going through a reroofing project to compare the warranty conditions and longevity of a variety of shingle products.
Slate look shingles offer unique looks and are often thicker in their composition, exemplifying a more three-dimensional look. Because of this, slate look shingles tend to carry more weight and a professional roof inspection should be done to determine if your roof can support such an installation. Shake look shingles, likewise, offer unique design patterns that can be highly customized to one’s home. More premium shingles, called Presidential shingles, have strong durability and can add a touch of eloquence to your home’s roof.
One of the more common shingle varieties is the strip look shingle, which often have less thickness and less cost associated with them. The warranties with strip shingles, while still fairly generous, tend to be less in years when compared to other types. For a more unique feel, dimensional look shingles gives the distinct appearance of layered effects which adds a nice design element to any roof. Many products of this variety offer extended warranties.
For those who wish to make a “green” leap, solar shingles have become an increasing popular and tangible option. Solar shingles can be installed directly into your roof, offering a continuous edge. Solar shingles have come a long way and offer a viable Vinyl Vs Wood Soffit alternative to traditional solar panels which are installed on top of a roof and can appear bulky. Solar shingles, additionally, tend to be more lightweight and generate reasonable amounts of electricity, thus cutting down on your utility bills.
Whatever variety of shingles you choose, it’s important to make sure that they are installed properly and won’t compromise your roof’s structure. It is highly recommended to have a professional roof inspection done to ensure your roof’s composition and ability to endure a reroofing project. Professional installation is also recommended in order to ensure full warranty compliance and to account for unusual elements of your roof, including vents and roof flashing components. While there are a number of shingle products out there, with some professional help any homeowner can find the appropriate shingle to update their home and provide lasting protection from the elements.
