Types of Shingles: Your Ultimate Guide

For homeowners or contractors looking for an all-round solution to protect their houses against water damages, roof shingles are an ideal choice. No matter the weather conditions, choosing the right kind of shingles can shield your home beautifully. So, what are the different types of shingles available? Let's dive into an in-depth understanding of this topic.

What are Shingles?

In simple words, shingles are a type of roof covering that consists of individual overlapping elements. These elements are typically rectangular and flat and are laid in sequences from the bottom edge of the roof up. Across the globe, you'll come across various types of shingles for roofing, including, but not limited to, asphalt, wood, slate, metal, tile, and solar shingles.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles, frequently used in North America, are cost-effective and easy to install. Available in a wide range of colors, styles, and textures, asphalt shingles can mimic the look of costly materials, making them an attractive choice.

They are made from a base of either organic or fiberglass materials, coated with mineral granules to add color, reflect sunlight, and offer fire resistance. You can choose between three-tab asphalt shingles and architectural asphalt shingles, each with its unique characteristics.

Wood Shingles

Wood shingles, often made from cedar, pine, or redwood, come with a natural appearance that can lend a rustic charm to your home. They offer good insulation and can last longer than asphalt shingles when properly maintained. However, they may not be the best choice in regions with high fire danger.

Different Types of Wood Shingles:

• Shakes: Rough and thick, split on one or both sides.
• Shingles: Smooth and uniform, sawn on both sides.

Slate Shingles

Slate, a natural stone shingle, is one of the most durable roofing materials out there. They can last for hundreds of years and withstand harsh weather conditions. Slate shingles are expensive and require professional installation. However, their lifespan and elegant looks can make up for the initial cost.

Metal Shingles

Metal roofing material is a robust, long-lasting option that can endure harsh weather. Metal shingles can mimic the look of traditional shingles while offering increased durability. It's a popular choice for industrial buildings and can also be used for residential homes.

Tile Shingles

Tile shingles are highly durable and can outlast most other roofing materials. They are often made from clay or concrete and come in various shapes and colors. Tile shingles are able to withstand high winds, hails and fire. This makes them an excellent choice for houses in areas prone to these conditions.

Solar Shingles

As their name suggests, these are solar panels designed to look like regular shingles. Solar shingles not only protect the house but also generate electricity, saving you money on energy bills over time. This is an eco-friendly option that can also increase the value of the house.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Shingles

While picking the right type of shingles, consider the following:

• The weather conditions in your area.
• The architectural style of your home.
• Your budget.
• Local building codes and homeowner association rules.
• The desired look and color.
• The installation process.

Frequently Asked Questions about Types Of Shingles

Can you Tell me More About Asphalt Shingles?

Asphalt shingles are the most commonly used type and are available in two different varieties: organic and fibreglass. Organic shingles are made of cellulose fibre while fibreglass shingles are made of glass fibre mat. Both types are coated with asphalt to make them waterproof.

What are Wood Shingles?

Wood shingles are made from natural wood, like red cedar or yellow pine. They are split or sawed from logs and processed into different shapes and sizes. Wood shingles give your roof a natural, rustic appearance and are sustainable.

What is the Advantage of Metal Shingles?

Metal shingles are popular for their durability, long life span, and resistance to extreme weather conditions. They can be made from a variety of metals, including steel, aluminum, copper, and zinc. Metal roofs can last up to 50 years or more with proper care.

How Do Tile Shingles Look Like?

Tile shingles are often associated with Spanish or Mediterranean style homes. They're quite heavy so they might not be appropriate for all structures. But they're highly durable and offer fire resistance. Tile shingles are available in various styles and colors to match the design of your home.

What Can You Say About Slate Shingles?

Slate shingles are made from natural stone and are highly durable. They can last more than a century if properly maintained. Slate shingles are quite heavy and can only be installed in sturdy structures. They're high-end shingles and come with a higher cost too.

What Makes Solar Shingles Unique?

Solar shingles also known as photovoltaic shingles, serve as a roof's protection while also generating electricity. They're a great option for homeowners looking to switch to renewable energy sources.

Can You Mix Different Types of Shingles on a Roof?

While it is possible to mix different types of shingles on a roof, it isn't generally recommended. Doing so could compromise the uniformity and overall aesthetic of your roof. It's best to use one type of shingle for a consistent look and enhanced performance.

Do All Types of Shingles Come in Different Colors?

Yes, most types of shingles come in a variety of colors. The color of your shingles can complement your home's overall color scheme and improve curb appeal. Color options can vary depending on the type of shingle and the manufacturer.

Can All Types of Shingles be Recycled?

Not all types of shingles can be recycled. Asphalt shingles are the most commonly recycled roofing material. Wood and metal shingles can also often be recycled. However, slate and tile shingles are harder to recycle due to their heavy weight and durability.

What Shingle Type is Most Resistant to Hail?

Metal and slate shingles are usually the most resistant to hail. These shingles are quite durable and have the ability to withstand the impact of hailstones better than other types of shingles.

How Much Do Different Types of Shingles Cost?

The cost of shingles varies by type. Asphalt shingles are the most affordable, followed by wood and metal shingles. Tile and slate shingles are the most expensive. The final cost also depends on factors like the size of your roof and the labor costs in your area.

How Long Do Different Types of Shingles Last?

With regular maintenance and proper installation, asphalt shingles can last about 20-30 years. Wood and tile shingles can last for about 30-50 years. Metal shingles can last up to 50 years or more, while slate shingles can last over a century.

Asphalt Shingles

Pros

Affordability

Due to the low cost of materials involved, asphalt shingles are among the most affordable roofing options available. This also extends to the installation process, as the straightforward nature of the installation makes it less labor-intensive, hence cheaper.

Variety

Asphalt shingles come in an impressive array of colors and styles, catering to a wide range of personal tastes and architectural designs.

Installation

The installation process for asphalt shingles is relatively simple compared to other roof types, with many homeowners able to perform the task themselves. This reduces the need for professional installation and saves on labor costs.

Maintenance

Asphalt shingles require very minimal maintenance, only occasional checks to ensure no damage has occurred. Their durability means they can withstand weathering and environmental stress well.

Cons

Durability

While asphalt shingles are strong, in comparison to other roofing materials like metal or slate, they are less durable. In harsh weather conditions, these shingles can be damaged, making them less suitable in certain environments.

Lifespan

The average lifespan of an asphalt shingle roof is 15-20 years, which is significantly less than other roofing types such as metal roof, which can last up to 50 years or more.

Environmental Impact

Asphalt is a petroleum product and its production contributes to harmful emissions. In addition to this, asphalt shingles aren't easily recyclable, and so end up in landfills at the end of their lifespan.

Metal Shingles

Pros

Durability

Metal shingles are resistant to cracking, shrinking, or eroding. They can also withstand extreme weather conditions like heavy rain, snow, hail, and high winds.

Lifespan

A properly installed metal roof can last as long as the house itself, with an expected lifespan of 50 years or more.

Fire Resistance

Metal roofs are noncombustible, denoting them with a Class A fire rating which is the most fire-resistant.

Energy Efficiency

The reflective properties of metal roofs can deflect sunlight and thus heat, reducing cooling costs in the summer months.

Cons

Cost

The initial cost of a metal roof is higher than most other types. The expense can be offset over the lifespan of the roof due to minimal maintenance, but the upfront cost can be prohibitive for some homeowners.

Noise

During a rain or hail storm, metal roofs can be loud, though installation with sound-deadening insulation can mitigate this noise to some extent.

Expansion & Contraction

Metal roofs expand and contract with fluctuating temperatures. Over time, this can cause the fasteners to loosen or panels to warp, compromise the roof's structural integrity.

Slate Shingles

Pros

Appearance

Slate shingles provide a natural and attractive finish to a home. The unique aesthetic, combined with the variety of colors and textures on offer, makes slate a desirable choice for an elegant look.

Durability

Slate is a particularly durable material, capable of withstanding extreme temperatures and weather conditions. If installed correctly, it can provide a watertight roof for over a century.

Fire Resistance

As a completely natural stone product, slate is completely fireproof, offering the highest level of protection against potential fire damage.

Cons

Cost

Both the material cost and the installation cost of a slate roof are higher than for most other types. It's a significant investment, yet the longevity of the material can offset this cost over time.

Weight

Slate is a notably heavy material, and not all structures are equipped to carry its weight. Before installation, the existing structure may require reinforcement, adding to the cost and complexity of the project.

Installation

The installation of a slate roof requires experienced, professional installers and is not a suitable do-it-yourself project. Incorrect installation can lead to leaks, damage, or even a significantly reduced lifespan for the roof.

Myths and Misconceptions about Types of Shingles

When people talk about 'shingles,' they're often referring to two vastly different subjects. In the context of health, shingles is a painful viral illness caused by the chickenpox virus. However, in the context of construction, shingles are roofing material that comes in various types, styles, and materials. This article seeks to debunk misconceptions about the latter – types of roofing shingles. There is a plethora of misconceptions floating around about shingle types and their use, purpose, and benefits. Some are pretty harmless, but others may substantially impact your home's functionality and your wallet.

Myth 1: Asphalt Shingles Aren't Durable

Fact:

Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular choices for homeowners and contractors due to their affordability. It has led to the mistaken belief that they aren't durable. Contrary to this myth, asphalt shingles can last for 20-30 years if well-maintained. Various factors affect their durability, such as the quality of installation, the climate, and maintenance.

Myth 2: All Shingles Types Have Similar Lifespans

Fact:

The lifespan of shingles varies greatly depending upon the material. Asphalt shingles usually last 20-30 years, whereas higher-end materials like wood, tile, and metal can last 40-100 years. Variability in lifespan is due to differences in material durability, resistance to weather elements, and maintenance requirements.

Myth 3: Shingles Are Just for Aesthetics

Fact:

While aesthetics play a critical role in choosing shingles (because they make up a significant part of the visible exterior), they serve many other purposes. Shingles create a barrier against rain, snow, and wind, and high-quality shingles can also improve a home's energy efficiency.

Myth 4: All Shingle Types Are Suitable for Every Climate

Fact:

Shingle materials respond differently to different climates. For instance, in an area with high heat and sun exposure, metal or slate shingles would work out better as they are more resistant to UV radiation and heat. In contrast, in humid or rainy climates, it’s better to steer clear of wooden shingles unless they are specially treated, as wood can grow mold or rot.

Myth 5: The Thicker the Shingle, the Better

Fact:

Thickness doesn't necessarily equate to quality or durability. The performance depends on the shingle material, build, and installation quality. While some premium shingles are thicker due to multiple layers of material, others are thinner yet still offer excellent durability and performance.

Myth 6: More Expensive Shingles are Always Better

Fact:

While cost often reflects quality and durability, it's not always the case. Some less expensive shingles like asphalt offer excellent durability, making them a cost-effective choice for many homeowners. Moreover, costly shingle types like slate or wood might not necessarily be the best choice for every climate or home design.

Myth 7: Roof Shingles Installation is a DIY Job

Fact:

Roofing installation isn't for the average DIYer due to its intricacy and risks. Poor installation not only compromises the longevity of the roof but also puts the home at risk of water damage. Installing roof shingles requires expertise in various areas, including water and ice barrier placement, decking preparation, drip edge application, and more.

Understanding these myths helps homeowners make more informed choices about roof shingles. It ensures they can prevent potential issues, get their money's worth, and choose the best types of shingles for their unique needs, climates, and expectations.

Summary

There is a wide array of types of shingles available on the market, each differing in materials, designs, and functionalities. Asphalt shingles hold a significant share in residences for their affordability and easy installation process. Wooden shingles, on the other hand, can provide a distinct rustic charm to any house but demand regular maintenance which may not be convenient for everyone.

Going over other types of shingles, metal shingles are applauded for their durability and energy efficiency, making them a favorite among environmentally-conscious homeowners. Additionally, rubber shingles are gaining popularity due to their durability and cost-effectiveness. They are easy to install, repair, and are highly resistant to weather damage - making them ideal for regions with harsh weather conditions.

Conclusively, the types of shingles you choose isn't simply an aesthetic decision made on a whim. Materials, budgets, and maintenance capacities hold crucial value. To make an informed decision, understanding the types of shingles available and their pros and cons is beneficial. After all, the perfect shingles will not only protect your home but also elevate its appearance to the next level.

About US Quality Construction

US Quality Construction is a Kansas City, MO-based company with a stellar reputation for exceptional craftsmanship and unrivaled dedication to client satisfaction. With a strong focus on both residential and commercial construction, we take pride in creating high-quality, sustainable spaces that are as functional as they are beautiful. Our team of highly skilled professionals is committed to working with honesty and integrity, applying their extensive knowledge and experience to each project they undertake. At US Quality Construction, we're not just constructing buildings, we're building dreams, and we love being a part of what makes Kansas City great.