When choosing roofing shingles for your home, consider the style and durability of the material. Some types of shingles may be more expensive but are worth the investment. Roofer Lancaster PA can add resale value to your home.
Luxury shingles are designed to mimic other roofing materials, such as slate or cedar shake. They can look great on cottages, coastal, or traditional homes. They are also fire-resistant.
When planning a roof replacement, it is important to know how much the materials will cost. This helps homeowners make informed decisions and avoid surprises during the job. It is also useful for comparing bids from different roofing professionals. Many factors influence the cost of roofing shingles, including the material and the installation method. A new roof can significantly increase the value of a home, so it is worth investing in a quality product that will last for years.
Asphalt shingles are the most common type of shingle and come in several colors and styles. They are typically coated with a stone granule surface that protects against moisture and UV rays. They are also made with a heat-activated asphalt sealant that helps them stick to the roof and remain in place. Some shingles have reflective coatings to help reduce the sun’s glare and reduce energy bills.
The most affordable shingle option is the basic three-tab shingle, which costs about $100 per square. These shingles have a flat appearance and are topped with three cutouts that give them the look of individual pieces. Another option is the architectural asphalt shingle, which costs around $150 per square and has two layers of lamination for a more contoured look. Finally, there are the multilayered architectural shingles, which are the most expensive and are designed to mimic high-end wood shingles.
Other types of shingles include cedar shingles and wood shakes, which are more expensive but provide a classic look that is hard to match. However, they require more maintenance and are more susceptible to water damage. They can also be difficult to install, so they should only be installed by experienced roofing professionals.
Composite shingles, which are made from recycled materials and synthetic polymers, offer a combination of style and durability. They are available in a variety of colors and can even mimic the appearance of higher-end materials like clay tiles or cedar shakes. They are also an environmentally conscious choice because they can be recycled at the end of their life cycle.
When choosing a roofing material, you want it to provide long-term protection for your home. You also want it to complement the style and architecture of your house. Fortunately, there are many roofing shingle options to choose from to meet your needs. The most popular roofing shingle type is asphalt shingles. They come in a variety of colors and styles, and are very durable. In fact, a properly installed asphalt roof can last up to 50 years.
To create a water-resistant barrier, asphalt shingles use a layer of weather-resistant material called granules. These are made of a fine mineral powder that is processed into a range of different colors. This is important because granules help the shingle to resist fading and color-fading caused by UV light. The granules are held to the asphalt shingle base with a special adhesive. This adhesive is spot-applied to the surface of the shingle and activates at specific temperature ranges. The shingle’s color and durability are further enhanced by a heat-activated asphalt sealant. This ensures that the shingles will remain intact in high winds and other roof stresses.
Most shingles have a lifespan of between 20 and 50 years. The exact length of time they live depends on how the shingles are installed and the conditions of the roof. 3-tab shingles typically have a lifespan of 25 years, while dimensional and luxury shingle types can live up to 30 years or more.
If you live in an area prone to hail or high wind gusts, it is a good idea to opt for impact-resistant shingles. These shingles have an extra layer of tough fiberglass to prevent cracking. They are usually labeled UL 2218 Class 4 and can withstand up to a 2-in. steel ball travelling 90 mph.
Another roofing material option is composite shingles. These are made of recycled materials or engineered polymer. They are designed to mimic the appearance of cedar shakes and slate. In fact, some composite shingles even come with class-A fire ratings and algae streaking warranties. While these shingles are expensive, they provide a high level of durability and low maintenance.
Aside from the durability and cost of roofing shingles, the appearance is another important factor in selecting the right one for your home. A well-chosen shingle color will complement your siding, eavestroughing and doors and create a cohesive look for your exterior design. It is also important to consider the color of your surroundings, as different shades will match or clash with the landscape around your home. If you live in a neighborhood with a lot of trees, for example, you may want to choose a lighter shade so that your house blends into the scenery.
Whether you go with a dark or light shade, make sure to select shingles that match the color of your siding and trim. Roofing professionals use several tools to help homeowners match the color of their homes, including a digital tool that shows how the shingles will appear under different lighting conditions. This is important, as natural lighting varies by location and time of day.
Some of the most popular roofing shingle colors include black, brown, and gray. Dark shingles are ideal for homeowners in warmer climates, as they provide a bit of protection from the sun’s harsh rays. Compared to light shingles, they absorb more heat from the sun and can increase your home’s energy bill.
For those who prefer a more subtle look, light brown shingles are a great choice. They are less expensive than dark shingles, but they will still give your home a classic and elegant appeal. Light brown shingles are also a good option for homeowners who have a wooded backyard, as they can blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment.
There are several different types of roof shingles available, with some being thicker and more durable than others. For example, architectural shingles have an extra layer and are designed to resemble more expensive wood shakes. These shingles are more likely to be installed on homes with steep slopes, as they offer extra protection against heavy rains.
While a roof is usually the last thing on a homeowner’s mind, it is an important part of the home’s overall structure and can add resale value. Therefore, homeowners should be careful in choosing the right shingles to keep their home safe from weather damage and other issues.
As with most things, roofing shingles need regular maintenance to protect them and extend their service life. Shingles can be damaged by hail, high winds, and water leaks. Regular maintenance and inspections help prevent these problems from developing. During an inspection, a roofer will look for cracks, missing shingles, and deteriorated shingle strips. They will also look for moss and other growths that can lead to moisture build-up and leakage.
When a roof is in need of repair, a professional will use shingle cement and nails to repair the cracks and replace any shingles that have been lost or blown away. A good roofer will also check the condition of the attic ventilation and ensure there are no obstructions that can block air flow. Proper attic ventilation is essential to prevent the buildup of heat and condensation, which can damage shingles.
Another important step in shingle maintenance is to clean the gutters and remove any debris that could cause water damage. This will help direct water away from the shingles and the structure of the home. Another maintenance item is to trim any trees that are close to the roof. A falling tree branch can damage the shingles or even the roof itself.
During a shingle maintenance inspection, a roofer will also look at the valleys where the two roof faces meet. These areas are prone to leaks because water tends to travel down them. A roofing professional will install valley metal to keep water from damaging the shingles.
Most roofing shingles come with a warranty. However, a standard warranty only lasts for 10 years. After that, the manufacturer will only reimburse you for a portion of the cost of replacement shingles. You can find more information about the terms of a roofing warranty by reading your homeowners insurance policy or asking your roofer to explain them in detail. It’s also important to understand that a warranty will not cover damage caused by “acts of God” such as severe weather. This type of damage will require you to file an insurance claim or pay out of pocket.