You know your roof needs replacing, but with so many options for roofing shingles, deciding on the best type can feel overwhelming. Don’t stress! This article breaks down the pros and cons of the most popular roofing shingles so you can pick the right one for your home and budget. Keep reading for useful tips from our Greenville roofing experts.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are by far the most popular roofing material for homes. Made from asphalt, they’re affordable, durable, and low-maintenance. Asphalt shingles come in a variety of styles to suit any home. You’ve got your standard 3-tab shingles with their classic style.
Architectural or dimensional shingles offer a wood shake look. Premium shingles like specific landmarks or GAF Timberline HDZ provide extra protection and can last up to 30-50 years. Asphalt shingles are designed to stand up to harsh weather. They are waterproof and provide good protection from wind, rain, snow, and ice.
Wood Shingles
Wood shingles provide a classic, natural look for any roof. Made from cedar, redwood, or cypress, wood shingles stand up well to weather but require more maintenance than other materials. Wood shingles give a home a rustic, traditional feel. The wood ages gracefully, developing a silver patina over time.
You can also stain or paint the shingles to complement your home’s style. Cedar shingles, in particular, are prized for their attractive reddish tones. High-quality wood shingles can last 30-50 years. However, they are more susceptible to weathering, rot, and insect damage than other roofing materials.
Slate Shingles
Slate shingles are one of the most premium roofing materials due to their timeless beauty and longevity. Made from natural stone, slate shingles can last up to 200 years. Their natural texture and color variation provide an organic, earthy aesthetic that will make your home stand out.
Slate shingles are incredibly durable and resistant to damage from the elements. They withstand extreme weather like heavy rain, snow, and high winds. Slate shingles are non-porous, so they don’t absorb water or warp over time. They are also fire-resistant and help insulate homes.
Metal Shingles
Metal roof shingles, like steel or aluminum, provide durability and fire resistance. These lightweight shingles hold up well against extreme weather like high winds, heavy snow, and hail. Metal shingles can last 50 years or more without needing replacement. They are very low maintenance since they don’t crack, split, or rot like asphalt or wood shingles.
Metal shingles reflect sunlight, which helps reduce heat transfer into your attic and living spaces. This can lower your energy bills, especially in warm climates. The shiny surface also makes metal roofs visually appealing with a sleek, modern look.
Composite Shingles
Composite shingles, also known as asphalt or fiberglass shingles, are one of the most popular and affordable roofing materials. Made from recycled paper, wood fibers, and asphalt, composite shingles are designed to resemble the look of natural materials like slate or wood shakes.
The asphalt used in these shingles is a petroleum byproduct, helping to make use of materials that would otherwise go to waste. Composite shingles typically last between 20 to 30 years, depending on factors like climate and weather exposure.
Solar Shingles
Solar shingles are photovoltaic cells integrated into shingle-like materials that can replace traditional asphalt or fiberglass shingles. They generate electricity from sunlight to power your home and reduce your electric bill.
Many homeowners find that solar shingles pay for themselves over the lifetime of the roof. Solar shingles are installed in the same way as regular shingles, so your roofer can put them on quickly without special training. They connect to your inverter to channel the energy they produce into your home’s electrical system.
Reach Out to Greenville Roofing Today for More Information on Roofing Shingles
The variety of styles, types, and price points for asphalt roofing shingles make them a versatile and affordable option for any home. For help determining the right shingles for your roofing project in the Greenville area, contact the professionals at Greenville Roofing.
If you have any questions about metal, composite, or solar shingles for your roofing project, don’t hesitate to contact us. We would be happy to provide a free estimate and discuss which option may work best for you. Call us today at (864) 416-4166.