Add Durability to Your Roof
When it comes to roofing, not only do shingles preserve the structural integrity of your roof and protect against the elements, but they also enhance the curb appeal and value of your home. The choice of roofing shingles can significantly impact the durability of your roof in the face of wind, rain, hail, and other weather events. Let’s explore the different types and styles of roofing shingles.
Asphalt Roofing Shingles
Asphalt roofing shingles are renowned for their reliability, affordability, and widespread use in roofing projects. In fact, according to the Home Innovation Research Labs’ 2018 Builder and Consumer Practices Report, a whopping 70% of roofing materials used in residential construction, repair, and replacement are asphalt shingles. Asphalt shingles come in numerous varieties, some tailored to specific regional weather conditions or unique roof designs.
3-Tab Roofing Shingles
Timeless and Affordable
3-tab roofing shingles grace the roofs of many homes in the United States and Canada. Characterized by three equally sized tabs, they offer a symmetrical appearance that appeals to many homeowners.
These traditional asphalt shingles feature a repeating rectangular shape separated by “slots” and are typically more budget-friendly compared to other asphalt shingle options. Proper installation is crucial to ensure the straight alignment of these shingles.
Architectural Roofing Shingles
Elegance and Durability
Architectural roofing shingles, also known as dimensional or laminated shingles, represent a premium category of asphalt shingles. They stand out due to their two layers of shingle pieces laminated together, creating a dimensional and visually appealing look.
The variation in shingle sizes and shapes on roofs covered with architectural shingles adds to their aesthetic appeal. Thanks to their increased thickness, these shingles often come with longer manufacturer warranties, and some brands boast higher wind resistance ratings.
Impact-Resistant Roofing Shingles
Defending Against Impact
Impact-resistant shingles are specifically engineered to withstand hail or other debris that may strike your roof. Various modifications enhance their impact resistance, such as reinforcing the back with a special fabric or adding polymers like styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) to create a rubberized effect. These enhancements allow the shingles to absorb energy from hailstones or other impacts, reducing the risk of cracking, denting, or damage. For a shingle to be labeled as impact-resistant, it must undergo roofing industry-standard impact testing (UL2218). This testing includes four rating levels, with Class 4 being the highest. Some insurance providers offer discounts to homeowners with Class 4 impact-resistant shingles installed on their roofs.
COOL Roofing Shingles
Energy Efficiency and Comfort
COOL roofing shingles are designed with solar-reflecting granules that reduce heat absorption through the roof. By keeping your home cooler, they contribute to energy efficiency and enhanced comfort indoors.
Choosing the right roofing shingles is a significant decision for homeowners. It’s not just about aesthetics but also about ensuring your roof’s resilience and performance against the elements. Whether you opt for classic 3-tab shingles, elegant architectural shingles, impact-resistant options, or energy-efficient COOL shingles, make an informed choice to safeguard your home.