Different Shingle Types for Your Home

Whether you’re a new or experienced homeowner, one of the most important decisions you can make for your home is what type of shingles to use for your roof. Although you may not realize it, shingles come in a lot of different varieties, every one of which has its inherent pros and cons. Because the choices are so wide, it can be helpful to learn more about the difficult shingle types to help you decide which one is right for your home. Here are five of the most common, useful types of shingles that you should be aware of when you’re planning your next home roofing project.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are probably the most commonly used shingle type. The reason that asphalt shingles are so popular boils down to two main rains: They are quite inexpensive and are good with insulation. There are even different types of asphalt shingles, including laminated asphalt shingles and three-tab asphalt shingles.

Another benefit to asphalt shingles is that they tend to be cheaper than some of the others you will see overall. The downside to asphalt shingles is that they tend to only last about 25 years or so.

Tile Shingles

While heavy and somewhat expensive, a great shingle type if you have the budget and roof structure is tile shingles. Tile shingles are some of the most expensive shingles available, owing mostly to their day to day durability and extremely long lifespan, which can sometimes reach 50 years. However, tile shingles will not be suitable for every home. In fact, the National Roofing Contractors Associations warns homeowners that not all houses are able to sustain the weight of tile shingles and to proceed with caution.

Wood Shingles

If your looking for a shingle type that provides an extremely attractive appearance, wood shingles are a great choice. Wood shingles tend to be pleasing to look at because they have a very natural appearance and, depending on the wood type chosen, can make your house look even more appealing.

Wood shingles are rather inexpensive and if the proper wood is chosen, like Redwood or Cedar, the shingles can last you up to 50 years.

Metal Roofs

Metal roofs used to be found in areas that were rather cold, like the mountain regions of the Northeast because of their superior resistance to harsh weather conditions. They are particularly adept at preventing typical winter threats, such as ice dams. Metal roofs, depending on the type, are generally inexpensive and definitely pay off, lasting about 50 years.

Slate Shingles

Slate shingles are extremely common in the Northeast since this is wear slate is usually manufactured. Long-lasting and inexpensive, these shingles can last up to 50 years and can reduce your budget by a great deal.

As we have seen, there are a number of different types of shingles that you can choose from for the roof of your home. In fact, the only limitation when it comes to shingles is your budget and style preferences. No matter the types of shingles you install, you’ll be getting an attractive, long lasting and affordable roofing options that you’ll be sure to love.