Most people are familiar with the concept of roof shingles, but not everyone understands what they actually are and how they work. Here’s what you need to know about shingles and how they work so that you can identify when your roof needs repairs and when it doesn’t.
Roof Shingle Definition
Shingle roofs are usually what most people think of when they picture a traditional roof. They are long, thin, rectangular pieces of material that are layered on top of one another in order to protect your home’s exterior from external damage. There are many different materials that shingles can be made out of depending on what type of budget you have available.
Types of Roof Shingles
There are a variety of types of roof shingles on the market. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, which makes it important to know what type is right for your home.
At LH Roofing, we have beautifully shingled buildings across all of Wiltshire and beyond with the environmentally friendly —and attractive— cedar shingles. Sustainable, attractive AND durable, cedar roofs are a great option.
Here’s a quick rundown of some common shingle materials:
- Asphalt
- Fibreglass
- Cedar
- Mineral granules
- Wood
- Copper
- Cement
Asphalt and fibreglass are popular choices for their durability, with asphalt shingles generally being the most affordable type.
Moving up the price band you will find Architectural Shingles, which not only look more aesthetically pleasing, they also have an additional laminated layer. These are more durable.
How Long Do Roof Shingles Last?
Shingles on your roof can last anywhere from 15-50 years or more, depending on the material, maintenance, and if they’re installed correctly in the first place! Generally speaking, asphalt shingles last between 15 and 25 years, with the fancier types doubling that number. And if you opt for metal shingles, you could see up to 100 years of life.
Are Shingles And Tiles The Same Thing?
While they might look alike, shingles and tiles differ in a few important ways, with each having its own advantages and disadvantages.
Tiles are often made of clay or concrete, and they come in many more shapes and styles than shingles. Installation is a little trickier with tiles, taking longer to prepare. Tiles are also heavier which could be an important factor when making your choice.
On the other hand, tile roofs last longer and hold their value better.
Either way, both shingles and tiles do a good job of protecting your home against harsh weather conditions.
What Next?
Do you have roof shingles? When shingles become old or damaged in some way, it is necessary to replace them in order to keep your home protected and standing strong for years to come. Get in touch today to discuss your options!