Which Roofing Shingles Are Best for Your Home? (Your Expert Guide)

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Not all roofing shingles are alike! Some shingles offer better insulation for interior spaces and withstand storm damage more readily than others. Consequently, it’s vital that property owners educate themselves on their choices before scheduling roof repairs or replacements.

With this in mind, check out some vital information about roof shingles and other materials available. Then, discuss your options with a roofing contractor near you. He or she can offer personalized suggestions for roofing shingles based on your budget and property’s needs. In turn, you’ll appreciate that new roof overhead for many years to come!

Which Roofing Shingle Is the Best for Your Home? (& What to Look For)

To find the right shingles for your home, check out a few factors that can help determine your best choice. Your roofing contractor can also suggest the right option for your property and factors to consider when choosing the best roofing materials for your home or business.

Wind rating

If you live in an area with high winds and heavy storms, check the shingle’s wind rating. This tells you how much wind that shingle can take before loosening and blowing away! For very risky areas, a contractor might suggest shingles that resist winds up to 150 mph. A high wind rating means fewer repair bills every time a storm moves through, making it an excellent investment.

Impact resistance

Properties at risk of hailstorms, storm debris, and the like need impact-resistant shingles. Manufacturers design these shingles to stay dent-free even when hit by heavy hail or falling branches. Investing in impact-resistant shingles can mean fewer risks of water leaks during storms. Also, you’ll face fewer repair bills after a hailstorm!

Look for granules containing copper

Whatever decisions you’re making for a property’s exterior, it’s vital that you consider curb appeal. However, nothing detracts from that appeal more than dirty black streaks running down a building’s outside walls! In many cases, algae forming along roofing shingles create those streaks as water runs over those materials.

To avoid this issue, consider roofing shingles with copper in their granules. Copper inhibits algae growth, which then prevents those dirty streaks. As algae also damage roofing shingles, that copper can keep the roof in good condition for far longer than expected.

Choose the best shingle color and style

Preserving your property’s curb appeal also means choosing a shingle color and style that flatters your structure! For instance, an overly dark shingle color can overwhelm a large home. Also, dark shingles on top of dark walls can make the property look somewhat depressing!

On the other hand, dark shingles on top of a white building offer lots of stunning contrast. Shingles with a reddish tinge might look better on brick structures, while lighter colors enhance dark paint tones.

Additionally, consider shingle shape and cut. Rounded shapes offer a traditional, rustic look. Small shingles might look cluttered on a larger property. Square shingles provide a manicured look. Your roofing contractor can offer added suggestions for choosing the right shingle shape for your property.

Which Type of Shingle Lasts the Longest?

Manufacturers offer varying warranties for their shingles, with most guaranteed for 25 to 30 years. However, some manufacturers offer 50-year warranties for their shingles. These warranties cover the cost of replacing shingles if they should fail within that timeframe.

Of course, shingles with longer guarantees usually cost more to install. However, investing in 50-year shingles can mean fewer replacement costs over time. Also, more durable shingles can mean less risk of roof leaks and interior water damage. Stronger, thicker shingles might also offer added insulation for interior spaces.

On the other hand, consider if you need 50-year shingles for your home. For example, might you put your home on the market in a few years or decades? If so, you might not need to pay for shingles that last longer than you’ll own that house!

Lastly, remember that local weather conditions and how well you maintain a roof affect shingle lifespan. Excessive rain and high winds, hail, and falling debris can shorten the lifespan of even the strongest shingle brand. Improper power washing techniques might also strip granules and loosen shingles. With that in mind, consider investing in the longest-lasting shingles you can afford!

The Different Grades of Shingles

Manufacturers usually grade shingles as good, better, and best.

• Three-tab shingles have three granule sections along the bottom. These sit flat on the roof and offer standard insulation for a structure’s interior. Three-tab shingles are usually graded as good or basic.
• Architectural shingles are thicker than 3-tab and offer added insulation for interior rooms. Also, architectural shingles provide more depth when installed, for greater curb appeal. Manufacturers usually warranty most architectural shingles for 30 years or more. Additionally, these are classified as better since they provide more protection and last longer than 3-tab shingles.
• Luxury shingles typically last some 40 years or more. These thick shingles also provide added curb appeal and maximum insulation for a structure’s interior. However, their thickness does add weight to the roof. Also, some roofers might charge extra for their installation, as that thickness requires added care and labor during installation. While luxury shingles may be classified as "best" this doesn't mean you need to opt for these. Even classified "good" shingles will last for many years on your home.

Which Is Better, Light or Dark Roof Shingles?

Light shingles are often better for warmer climates, as dark shingles absorb sunlight and trap heat inside a structure. On the other hand, light shingles deflect sunlight and heat, for a cooler interior.

Conversely, dark shingles absorb heat, making them an excellent choice for colder climates. Those dark shingles can also melt snow and ice more quickly than lighter shingles. Additionally, dark shingles might hide water stains and other discoloration more readily than light shingles.

In addition to climate, consider your property’s appearance overall, as said. Choose a shingle color that complements exterior walls and other such features. Consider if plain gray might look overly industrial on a residential home. Above all, ask your roofer for expert advice on your chosen shingle brand and appearance!

Get in Touch with Our Team at RC Roofing to Learn More!

RC Roofing is happy to provide this advice on what roofing shingles are best for your structure. Hopefully, you found this information informative! If you’re in the market for reliable services, call our Rhode Island roofing contractors. We’ll start your asphalt shingle roofing project with a free inspection and price quote. For more information, use our contact form or just give us a call!