If you need to replace your roof or you’re building a new home, you have a variety of different options in terms of shingles. In this situation, it is important to carefully consider which option you want to use, since this will impact the total cost of the roof, how long it lasts, and how much maintenance or repair it will need. To make your selection easier, here is a guide to the different types of shingles so you can better understand the advantages and drawbacks of each one.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles have long been one of the most popular choices for roofing because they are both durable and fairly inexpensive compared to many other options. Most asphalt shingles will come with a fairly long warranty, but the usual life expectancy is 15 to 30 years. If you’re looking for something more stylish and more durable, you may want to consider architectural shingles as they are thicker and better able to withstand damage compared to standard three-tab asphalt shingles.
One advantage of asphalt shingles is that they come in a huge range of different colors. This makes it easy to find a color that almost perfectly matches the rest of your home or to choose a contrasting color that complements your siding or trim. Probably the biggest downside to asphalt shingles is that they are quite prone to damage from hail and high winds. That said, you can lessen the risk of your roof suffering severe storm damage by opting for Class-3 or Class-4 impact-resistant shingles.
Cedar Shake Shingles
Cedar shake shingles used to be quite popular and can still be a decent choice if you prefer a more rustic or natural look. This type of shingle will generally be the least expensive option, but it also won’t last nearly as long as other options and will require much more maintenance and upkeep. The fact that they are made from pieces of real wood means they can be extremely prone to catching fire, which is another reason why they’re rarely seen these days. In wetter, more humid climates like Florida, cedar shake shingles will typically start to rot in only a few years, so they’re usually not the best option in our area.
Slate Roof Tiles
Slate roof tiles will often last for 100 years or more, making them far more durable and longer lasting than most any other option. They are also among the most beautiful and stylish roofing options available, and they’re perfect for both classic and modern homes. The main issue with slate tiles is that they also tend to be much more expensive than all the other options. This is partly because the tiles themselves are quite costly and also because they are extremely heavy and will require your roof to be reinforced. The upside is that slate is quite strong, meaning the tiles will be less prone to breaking or suffering storm damage. The weight of the tiles also makes them better able to withstand strong winds.
Clay Roof Tiles
Clay roof tiles are an especially common and popular option in Florida. They will last much longer than asphalt shingles while also costing less than slate tiles. Clay roof tiles are definitely the best choice for Spanish colonial-style homes since they will perfectly complement the colors and architecture. As with slate tiles, clay tiles are quite heavy, so you may need to have extra work done to ensure that your roof is strong enough to support the added weight. The other thing to note is that clay tiles are fairly brittle. They can easily break due to storm damage or even from someone just stepping on them the wrong way. Consequently, you’re more likely to have to replace the tiles and need more roof repair than you would with asphalt shingles.
Composite Shingles
Composite shingles are a relatively new addition to the roofing industry and are quickly becoming quite popular. These shingles can be made from different types of composite and recycled materials that are usually molded so that they look almost exactly like either slate tiles or cedar shake shingles. They can be a great alternative to slate shingles as they are still quite durable and look just like the real thing. The main differences are that they are less expensive and not nearly as heavy. They can also be a great choice if you like the look of a cedar shake roof since they’ll give you the same style but last much longer and require much less maintenance.
Roofing & Construction Solutions is proud to be the top choice for shingle roofing installation and roof replacement in Winter Park. We carry an extensive selection of asphalt shingles, roof tiles, and other roofing materials. Our team can explain the pros and cons of the different options and help you decide which is best for your home. We work on all types of residential and commercial roofs, so give us a call today for any of your roof installation, roof repair, or inspection needs.
