Having a new roof put on your home can be quite expensive if you do not understand the difference between types of shingles. Typically, most homes in the United States have asphalt shingles since they are cost-effective. In order to make an informed decision about the type of shingles you want used for your roofing needs, you need to understand the different between asphalt, tile and wood shingles, since they are top picks.
The Beauty and Cost of Wood and Tile Shingles
Wood shingles are used for homes that want a more expensive and high-end look. They cost more than asphalt shingles and tend to be over budget for most home owners. That is not to say that they are not gorgeous. Wood shingles are beautiful yet high maintenance. Since they are made completely of wood they tend to rot and are susceptible to insect damage. The fire rating is not much better either. If wood shingles are not pretreated, they are definitely a high fire risk. Tile shingles can be expensive too, and can be much heavier depending on the material they are made from. Slate tiles in particular lend a very sophisticated look to a home. Yet they are costly to transport due to their heavy weight, this factors into the overall cost of slate tiles, making it an expensive roofing option.
The Cost Effective Choice: Asphalt Shingles
When you want to have many options concerning style, and price, asphalt shingles are a popular choice. They work in many different climates, require little maintenance, and are wind resistant. Asphalt shingles also come in many different colors, with the basic shingle being a three tab shingle. It is the perfect alternative to tile and wood shingles. If you prefer the look of wood or stone, you can purchase laminated asphalt shingles that mimic those elements.
Different Types of Asphalt Shingles
There are at least two different types of asphalt shingles, one made from fiberglass, the other from organic materials. The organic asphalt shingles have a felt base that is covered with asphalt and mineral granules that are colored. The fiberglass asphalt shingles have a mat made of fiberglass that is between mineral granules and asphalt layers. One of the benefits of using asphalt made of fiberglass is that they have a better fire rating. If you are looking for eco-friendly shingles, asphalt shingles with reflective granules will reduce heat transfer that collects in the attic.
