ASPHALT SHINGLES
3-TAB SHINGLES
Also called Traditional Shingles, can be identified by their simple, consistent appearance. All of the shingles will be the same shape and lay flat next to each other. This is the cheapest of all the asphalt shingles.
ARCHITECTURAL SHINGLES
These shingles also go by Laminate Shingles or Dimensional Shingles. The key difference between these and traditional shingles is their construction. They are composed of two layers of asphalt and fiberglass; which gives them an advantage in weather resistance. These shingles are not the same shape and feature a pattern called "Dragon's Teeth". Manufacturers also added a shadow line to give dimension to the roof.
PREMIUM SHINGLES
These shingles are also known as Designer Shingles and feature the same two layer composition as Architectural Shingles. Many Premium Shingles are made to mimic other roofing materials such as cedar shakes or slate tiles. This shingles will offer a unique look, without the high cost and drawbacks of more traditional roofing materials.
PERFORMANCE SHINGLES
Performance Shingles are designed to off a specific benefit that the other types of shingles do not provide. This can be wind resistance, hail resistance. solar reflectivity. Other performance benefits include Impact Rating, Algae Resistance, and Fire Resistance.
OTHER TYPES
There are other types of shingles that are used in specific areas in roofing. One is Hip and Ridge Shingles and these go along the hips and ridges of a roof. The second type is called Starter Strips or Starter Shingles. Starter Strips are the first shingles that a roofer applies and they provide a solid sealant that protects the roof substrate. Starter strips are also used as a guide for roofers to lay a certain shingle pattern.
HOW LONG WILL THEY LAST?
Most Asphalt Shingles will last between 15-30 years, depending on your weather and climate conditions. Here is a breakdown of the lifespan according to the asphalt shingle type:
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3-Tab Shingle: 15-20 years
Architectural Shingle: 20-30 years
Premium Shingle: 25-40 years
METAL
ROOFING
METAL ROOF STYLES
STANDING SEAM
This is the most common type of metal roofing. Standing seam metal roofing involves long vertical panels joined by concealed fasteners to create an interlocking seam. The concealed fastemers create a sleek and streamlined appearance. Standing seam metal roofs have many benefits including longevity, energy efficiency and are highly customizable.
CORRUGATED METAL
This type of metal roofing involves metal sheets that are shaped into a corrugated pattern or a pattern that features wavy folds or alternating furrows and ridges. Corrugated metal roofs are made from either aluminum, steel, or cooper, but most frequently aluminum. Although aluminum is traditonally thought of as a weaker metal, the corrgated shape strengthens the aluminum sheet, making way to a long-lasting and cost-saving roof. Benefits of this metal roof style include, weather resistant, lightweight, water-shedding capabilities, and customizable aesthetics.
STONE COATED
This type of metal roofing gives you all the benefits of a metal roof, without compromising on style. Stone coated metal roofs start with steel panels that are rolled out and then coated with fine particles of stone. This will give your roof the appearance of either asphalt shingles, clay tiles, or wood shake. Other benefits of Stone coated metal roofs are increased energy efficiency and soundproofing from the stone particles.
METAL ROOFING MATERIALS
STEEL
Also, referred to as simply "galvanized", galvanized steel roofs is at attractive choice in roofing materials, especially for those in colder climates as it keeps the warm air inside the building and reducing installation costs. Steel is frequently used in combination of other types of metals, creating hybrid options. Examples of these combinations include, steel and a coating of zinc (also known as hot dipping) and galvalume (steel, aluminum, zinc, and silicone). These metal combinations give homeowners the affordability of a steel roof with the durability that accompanies other metal materials.
ALUMINUM
Aluminum is a popular choice for metal roofing. It's not only lightweight, allowing for easy installation, it is also rust-resistant. Aluminums rust-resistant properties make it an ideal choice for areas that experience high levels or precipitation throughout the year. Â Aluminum is also energy efficient and fire resistant. Although, a good bit of energy is used to make aluminum, it's mostly made from recycled metals, making it fairly eco-friendly.
COPPER
Although, copper is one of the most expensive roofing materials, it is also one of the most aesthetically pleasing. Copper starts out as a beautiful bronze and then, as it ages, turns into a gorgeous green patina. Due to this fact, a clear, protective coating can be applied to help preserve the copper. Copper is also known for longevity, fire resistance, pest resistance, and is a relatively lightweight material which minimizes the stress on your home's structure.
ZINC
Despite the fact that zinc has yet to catch on in the United States, it it one of the most sought after roofing materials in Europe. Accounting for over 70% of the roofs in Europe, zinc has many benefits that explain why the use of it is so high. One of the biggest advantages of zinc, is that it forms a attractive surface patina that protects the zinc and even repairs minor scratches, making it self healing. Zinc can also last around 100 years and is naturally fire, mold, and mildew resistant. Zinc can also be recycled at the end of it's lifetime.
ADVANTAGES
Energy Efficient: Metal roofs reflect heat instead of absorbing it, cutting cooling cost by up to 25%.
Durability: From wind to impact resistance, metal roofing provides family with the safety they deserve. Depending on which metal material is used, they can also be mildew and mold resistant as well. Metal roofs won't spark or ignite due to wildfire or a lightening strike.
Longevity: Metal roofs can last between 40 to around 100 years, depending on the material. This outnumbers asphalt roofing completely.
Environmetally Friendly: The longevity of metal roofs means there is also minimal waste as new materials are less required. Most metal roofs contain around 25% recycled material and can recycled at the end of their lifespan.
DISADVANTAGES
Cost: Some roofing metal roofing materials do come a higher cost, such as copper and zinc. However, the cost is outweighed by the benefits they provide.
Noisiness: Unfortunately, metal roofing will need soundproofing for certain weather events such as rain or hail. Adding more installation will help this issue, however, this does add to the overall cost.
Color Match: If an addition or repair is needed at some point, it might be difficult to find the exact color match for the existing material.