Choosing the right type of material is important when building a new roof or rebuilding an old one. It is one part of the house that is directly exposed to extreme temperatures and harsh weather. A bad choice in roofing material will eventually lead to problems such as leaks or poor insulation. Shingles are one type of material that is recommended by most builders because of their longevity and reliability. This type of roofing has been around since the arrival of the first settlers, although various materials are now being used as shingles.
Types of Shingles
Shingles can be organic such as: wood or cedar; inert like rocks: or man-made like cement or asphalt. The following is a list of the various types of shingles that are available along with their unique properties.
- Asphalt – One of the most popular types of shingles is asphalt. Similar to the asphalt used on roads, it is well known for its durability and affordability. A typical asphalt shingle can last over 25 to 30 years, provided it is installed in the ideal climate. A shorter lifespan should be expected in significantly warmer climates as heat can quickly dry out the material causing it to turn brittle.
- Wood – This is the earliest type of shingle due to the abundant source of this material; it is still being used for this purpose due to its unique look. The choice of wood shingles does require frequent maintenance, so this should be considered in the decision. Because wood absorbs water, it can easily deteriorate and require replacement earlier than any other type of roofing.
- Concrete – Since it is man-made, concrete is another affordable roofing option. It comes in a variety of designs and colors, so finding a color that matches the home is easy. One advantage of using concrete is that it is not brittle in comparison to other materials, so it can survive extreme weather conditions such as hail and strong winds.
- Clay – Clay shingles are known for their orange hue; it is quite popular in warm climates such as Florida due to its excellent heat-insulating properties. While clay is quite well-known for its aesthetic benefits, it cannot be used in cold and wet climates as it tends to become soft and brittle, causing faster deterioration.
- Ceramic – Ceramic is another type of roofing material that is popular in warmer temperatures and is known for its luster and gloss. Unlike other materials, ceramic is quite expensive due to its high manufacturing cost. If an exquisite look is desired, the ceramic shingle never fails to impress.
- Slate – Slate is one of the most beautiful types of roofing available. This material is a type of rock that is sliced into thin slabs to form various items including shingles. Because slate is a type of rock, it is very durable. Compared to other roofing material, slate can easily last from 80 to 90 years. Due to its unique look and considerable lifespan, slate is the most expensive roofing material available.
One of the most important parts of having roofing work performed is the choice of the right material. A common mistake that is made is to select the material based on its looks or its price, ignoring other important criteria. In deciding what material to use, it is important to take into account the predominant weather conditions. Areas with wet or cold climates should choose roofing that provides sufficient insulation from the cold and is water resistant. Areas where the weather is predominantly hot and humid should choose a material that does not easily dry out or turn brittle from the heat. In the same sense, areas that experience high winds and strong storms should avoid using material that can easily be broken. In determining the right type of shingle for a certain location, it is best to consult a professional roofer who knows the different shingle categories to avoid costly mistakes in the long run!
Are you looking for a roof company Houston contractor to help you choose the right material for your roof? Schulte Roofing can help Brazos Valley and Houston area customers with all of their roofing needs!