The roof of your home plays a critical role in keeping you safe and comfortable. It also provides protection against the elements. However, the roof of your home should also be recognized for the important role that it has in the visual appearance of your home. When it comes time to replace your roof shingles, you will want to choose the ones that work best for you, both in terms of aesthetics and performance. Thankfully, there are several great options available to choose from.
Top Options for Roof Shingles for Your Home
The type of roof shingles you choose for your home may be determined by your budget and the specific look you want to achieve.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are typically the most common option for roof shingles in our area. They not only function well while providing a very pleasant aesthetic appearance, but they are also the most economical option. This versatile option can last between 15 years and 30 years and is both water and fire-resistant. There are three types of asphalt shingles available for residential structures.
3-Tab Shingles
This is the least expensive option for roof shingles to choose from. These shingles are cut in long and thin shapes that include a signal layer of asphalt. These shingles are lightweight and typically lie flat on the roof. Although these shingles are easy to replace, they tend to be less durable than other asphalt shingle options.
Dimensional Shingles
These shingles are often called architecture shingles. Dimensional shingles are constructed with an additional layer of laminate. They also have a more rounded appearance than the 3-tab roof shingles and provide further resistance to harsh weather conditions.
Luxury Shingles
Luxury shingles include more layers of lamination to achieve a more wood-like appearance. These shingles have the best resistance levels of all three types of asphalt shingles available and provide the most upscale look. However, they do tend to come at a premium price when compared to other types of asphalt shingles.
Metal Shingles
Metal roof shingles come in a variety of colors, sizes, and styles. These shingles provide more energy efficiency than standard asphalt shingles and can last between 50 years and 75 years. They are also resistant to pests, fire, and inclement weather conditions. Several metal shingle options are available to choose from.
Copper Shingles
Copper roof shingles are extremely durable. They also provide excellent value when it comes to resale. These shingles are often placed on high-end homes. Although these shingles have a long life span, they can expand and contract due to changes in the weather, which can lead to the need for costly repairs. These shingles are extremely elegant and lightweight. However, they are one of the pricier roof shingles on the market to choose from.
Aluminum Shingles
Aluminum roof shingles are often considered the most cost-effective metal shingle option available. They are also the easiest to install. These shingles are resistant to corrosion, which makes them an excellent choice for homes located near the ocean and large bodies of water. They are more durable and lightweight when compared to other metals. However, they can be vulnerable to wear and tear.
Corrugated Metal
These are by far the most cost-effective option for all metal shingles. They are made of recyclable materials and are easy to install. They are designed to last and are energy efficient. However, they can be less durable than other types of metal shingles.
Standard Seam Metal
These attractive metal roof shingles are an excellent choice for homeowners who desire an upscale appearance. These shingles are a mix of aluminum, steel, and copper and usually come in long panels that are thick and ribbed. However, a shingle form is also available. These shingles provide significant protection against harsh weather conditions and are a great sound barrier. However, they can be more difficult to find than other types of metal roofing. Standard seam metal shingles are highly durable and they are resistant to weather and fire, making them an excellent and reliable roofing option for homeowners.
Wood Shingles
Wood shingles are another excellent choice for homes in our area. These shingles are environmentally friendly and provide a touch of rustic charm. Most often, wood shingles are made from cedar, redwood, spruce, or pine woods. Although these shingles are recyclable and add valuable curb appeal, they offer the least protection against the elements.
Wood shingles offer great protection against UV rays and wind. They are also extremely impact-resistant. They can last between 20 years and 30 years and are compatible with a variety of home designs and architectural styles. However, they can be much more difficult to install and maintain. They also require more maintenance than other types of roofing materials.
Concrete Shingles
Concrete shingles are another excellent option for homes here in Wisconsin. This type of shingle is extremely durable, energy-efficient, and resistant to the elements. It is important to note that these shingles are much heavier than other options available for residential structures. For this reason, you may have to reinforce the frame of your home in order to support the added weight that these shingles bring. However, they tend to be relatively inexpensive to purchase, they come in a variety of style options, and they can last between 30 years and 50 years, ensuring your home is protected for several decades to come.
With all of the available options to choose from, it can be difficult to determine which one will work best for you. If you would like guidance, contact our team at Windlickers Roofing & Exteriors. Our team can help weigh the pros and cons of each option to determine which one will suit your specific needs.
Schedule a Roof Estimate Today
Since 1996, our team at Windlickers Roofing & Exteriors, located near Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, has remained dedicated to providing our customers with affordable and reliable products and services. We take great pride in delivering compassionate customer services and meticulous installation services to each and every customer we work with. Schedule a free estimate today by reaching out to our team at (414) 531-1729 so that we can get started on your project right away.
