Shingles have been around for almost two hundred years. The way they are manufactured and installed has certainly changed through the ensuing decades, making them one of the favorite materials for roofs all over the country to this day.
Shingles have undergone an interesting evolution. Their ancient cousins were made from fabric that had been woven or felted, they were then covered with tar or sod. They did the job but lasted for short periods of time. Nowadays shingles are among the most used and desired roofing materials used, their weatherproofing abilities and long life also make them favorites among millions of consumers every year.
What are Shingles made of?
Being among the most common roofing materials used today, shingles can be made from very different things, among them:
- Slate
- Asphalt
- Composite
- Plastic
Why are Shingles so Popular?
Most shingles are rectangular and small and overlap when installing in order to keep out water. One of the main reasons for their popularity is their price. They are designed to withstand fire and algae growth, and their installation is quite straightforward and easy for an experienced team of professional roofers.
An added feature that attracts consumers is the fact that these days you can find shingles in a wide assortment of textures, shapes, and colors, making them a nice addition to any home.
How can you select the right shingles for your roof?
Due to the wide availability of shingles in all sorts of varieties, it may be a good idea for you to do some research on which option is the best one for your home. Here are three tips that will serve you well when choosing shingles for your roof:
Decide on the right color
Many factors play a role in what color your roof ends up with. It may be easy to decide on the color if the neighborhood where you live has guidelines for all homes, and if that is your case, please don’t rush out to buy a single shingle until you verify which ones you need to install. Otherwise, you may simply follow your heart, thinking about the desired curb appeal you are aiming for, and the particular aesthetic of your home.
Go for the right style
What items should you consider when deciding on style? Obviously, the way the shingles look need to be appealing to you. Many have interesting textures and dimensions, but you may also want to consider if they have a fire rating and have been manufactured to prevent algae from forming and discoloring the shingles’ nice look.
Select the right material
As mentioned above, shingles can be made from different materials. Whether you select wood shingles or those made from plastic, asphalt or slate depends on your budget and personal style, but other considerations also play a part such as their weight, the span of the roof that needs to be covered, and your home’s particular style.
When the time comes for you to replace your home’s roof or if you are thinking of having a new custom-built home and need to decide on a new roof, Malarkey roofers will provide you with a free, no-obligation consultation. They will work with you to help you make the best, most appropriate shingle selection for that important area of your home.
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