Choosing the best type of shingles for your home can be an overwhelming job. Whether you need shingles for a brand-new home or you’re having the roof replaced on your existing house, there are many factors to consider when making this decision. While it’s natural to focus on the cost of the shingles, that shouldn’t be the sole variable that you should consider. Instead, think about the following considerations to make a more informed choice:
How Many Shingles Will You Need?
The number of shingles you need will depend on the square footage of your home. A square of shingles covers about 100 square feet though you’ll also want to account for some extra for waste. If your roof is 10 feet by 15 feet you’ll have 150 square feet of roof. Add in an additional 10 percent for wastage and you’ll have a total of 165 square feet. You’ll need two squares of shingle for your home.
Which Shingles Are Best For Your Climate?
Mother nature can wreak havoc on even the best type of shingles for your home if they are designed for the weather. The best type of shingles are ones that offer your home the type of protection it needs in the climate where you live. For example, architectural shingles — or designer shingles as you might also hear them referred to — tend to cost more. However, they might not last as long.
Check The Warranty
It’s typical in the roofing industry for companies to offer warranties on their shingles. In general, shingles that are more expensive last the longest. However, it’s important to understand that a warranty is only as good as the company that issues it.
Make sure you choose the best types of shingles that have been manufactured by a company that has a long history in the industry. Opting for a newer company that has a warranty and/or shingles that sound too good to be true might mean that they won’t be around to honor it in a few years if you need them to.
Decide On The Best Material
Asphalt shingles have a long history within the roofing industry. Additionally, they enjoy being known as the industry standard. When it comes to being effective and durable, asphalt shingles have long-lasting warranties.
Laminate shingles can be an option for homeowners who want the look for other types of architectural shingles but who don’t want the hassles that often come with them. These shingles come in a variety of patterns such as rounded corners, shake patterns, and slate patterns with lines.
Clay and wood are other materials that shingles can be made of. They provide an upscale look that may be suited for custom homes.
Choose The Color Of Shingles
The color of the shingles is an important consideration if you are wanting a look that blends into the landscape. Conversely, you might choose to have the typical dark-colored shingles for a look that more closely matches the rest of the neighborhood. Keep in mind that lighter-colored shingles mean you’ll have a cooler attic. Darker colors will retain more heat on the roof. Blues, greens, whites, reds, and custom colors are available.
Call EC Roofing for Your Roofing Needs
Additional considerations you should keep in mind can vary depending on the type of home you have, the area where you live, and so on. EC Roofing offers free estimates on all our roofing and home services. Find the best types of shingles for your home with us. We pride ourselves on being easy to work with and providing you with hassle-free services. Contact us today at 410-455-9880 and learn what makes us different from the rest.