When we visualize a roof, many of us still think of our grandparents’ traditional gray asphalt shingles. However, 21st-century shingles have much more to offer in color, style and overall aesthetics. With high-quality installation, basic asphalt shingles are excellent for protection from the elements. They provide solid weatherproofing at a reasonable cost. However, many local homeowners want more from their shingles: more choices in shapes and colors and a longer warranty. The big question is: how important is curb appeal?
What Are The Different Types of Shingles?
The standard remains a basic three-tab asphalt shingle. It includes a layer of fiberglass with a water-resistant asphalt coating. These shingles come in a standard rectangular shape with a small selection of colors, including black, gray and brown, so your choice of color and shape is limited. Three-tab shingles offer effective weather resistance at a lower cost. They’re usually installed in a single layer.
More and more, consumers are choosing thicker, more durable architectural shingles. These products feature multiple layers of fiberglass laminated together and coated with asphalt. They are usually thicker and heavier than standard asphalt shingles, offering greater dimension and durability. Architectural shingles also come in a much wider selection of colors that would have made our grandparents’ jaws drop. Fabulous shades of brown, from tan to terra cotta, are increasingly popular. Vibrant red and green shingles can make your roof pop and accent your paint and trim. And trendy blue grays are coming on strong. Architectural shingles also come in different shapes to give your roof more texture and shadow effect. Some architectural shingles are designed to look like wood or slate or have scalloped or diamond shapes for extra elegance. Polymer-modified shingles that curve around your roof edges to create a custom look. There are even architectural shingles made with a special reflective pigment to help lower the temperature in your home and save on energy bills.
Durability is another reason clients increasingly opt for architectural shingles. Standard three-tab shingles generally carry a 20 to 30-year warranty on manufacturer defects. Architectural shingles often have a “lifetime” warranty for as long as you own your house, up to 40 or 50 years. Architectural shingles are more expensive than standard asphalt shingles, but the choices and extra durability are worth it for many homeowners.
Are There Roofing Options Besides Asphalt Shingles?
Asphalt shingles are the most popular option. However, we also work with clients seeking a different look and feel.
Standing seam metal and copper roofing offer durability and weather resistance with clean lines and a stylish look.
Synthetic slate roofing recreates the gorgeous aesthetics of slate tiles with high-tech rubber and plastic.
Cedar shake roofing made from natural wood combines a rustic look with long-lasting curb appeal.
Should I Remove My Existing Roof Before Installing New Shingles?
Most building codes allow covering a layer of existing shingles with new shingles. This is a cheaper solution, as it saves on labor costs. However, we don’t recommend it. A full tear-off allows us to inspect your sheathing and start from scratch with new shingles under a manufacturer’s warranty. It’s not uncommon for us to find rot in the underlayment on older roofs, and applying new shingles is merely a Band-Aid. It’s essential to protect your sheathing with a high-quality underlayment before installing new shingles. (See more in our article: Can I Put a New Roof on Top of My Existing Roof?)
Choosing New Shingles: Quality Installation Counts
Whether you choose standard three-tab asphalt or architectural shingles, selecting high-quality materials from a reputable supplier is a must. Your roofing contractor should offer a long-term manufacturer’s warranty covering material defects. Unfortunately, many leaks and other problems are related to shoddy installation rather than material issues. That’s why choosing a qualified contractor is as important as the shingles themselves. Manufacturer warranties often stipulate using specific vetted contractors. DryHome Roofing & Siding is a contractor of choice for top manufacturers. We guarantee our workmanship with a 12 to 15-year extended warranty covering installation in addition to the manufacturer’s warranty. If you’re considering replacing or upgrading aging shingles, let’s talk and see how we can make your vision a reality.
