Asphalt Shingles

The roofs are not only one of the most important systems for durability and performance of a building, but are critical for the appearance of a house. Choose the right product and install it, and the roof will provide years of beautiful protection with little maintenance.

The selection of materials depends on many variables with which contractors must be familiar in order to make good recommendations. Everything depends on the inclination of the roof, the aesthetics of the house and the conditions found in the neighborhood.

Asphalt shingles are the most common material for roofs in the United States and are the most economical. Asphalt shingles contain three components: reinforcing materials (usually fiberglass or asphalt impregnated organic materials to create an impermeable barrier) layer of asphalt and granules (usually ceramic).

Asphalt shingles come in various thicknesses and designs, from standard tiles to flat strips laminated or architectural shingles imitate the look and feel of traditional tiles. Asphalt shingles have a base of either fiberglass or organic material. Asphalt shingles with fiberglass base with a fire rated higher than the tiles made with organic materials, as well as being lighter. There is some concern at the facility when cold weather starts and fiberglass becomes more rigid, which increases their chances of breaking. Those that are reinforced with organic material can be a bit more flexible than fiberglass.

The clay and concrete tiles are made of concrete or clay which is then extruded shape. These types of tiles are ideal for southwest style buildings. Although the clay and concrete tiles are very durable, can break or shatter with impact and should not be used in areas requiring roofed with high impact resistance. You should also keep in mind, Kirby said that the concrete roof tiles and other materials with a high potential to absorb moisture and are prone to break during cycles of freezing / thawing.

Shingles and wood shingles are sawn wood (shingles) or fragmented (shingles) of the blocks. In the past, wood shingles were treated with preservatives to prevent growth of mold, algae or fungi. The Clean Water Act prevents the use of these conservatives, so that the wood has a significant drawback: it requires maintenance. New options for pressure treated wood can reduce maintenance and provide a better alternative to traditional shingles, but have a short life.

Slate tiles are made from rocks and are frankly more expensive than other roofing materials, but they are very profitable, and that usually last for 100 years or more. The slate is considered a superior material because of its aesthetic and specialized training necessary for proper installation. Slate is proportionately more expensive as it moves away from the quarries from which is extracted. Due to high shipping costs, you should buy these tiles locally or consider some other alternative.

The base is another important consideration. You should make sure to use a high quality base, perhaps a double layer, to be sure that nothing passes through the shingles enter the building.  Make sure that the life expectancy of the base matches the life expectancy of the upper material.