Asphalt Shingles are the Most Common Roofing Material Installed on Most Homes
When it comes to replacing or installing a new roof, asphalt shingles are one of the most common roofing materials installed on most homes. Many people feel that inexpensive and roofing do not belong in the same sentence, much less the same paragraph, though installing asphalt shingles is one of the least expensive options for those who need a new or replacement roof.
It pays though to look at the long haul rather than simply paying attention to the initial roofing job. If you plan to live in your home longer than the warranty on your shingles would last, you might want to consult with a certified contractor on what roofing materials are sturdier than traditional asphalt shingles. These other shingle options such as slate, wood shingles, metal shingles, and tile each bring a different type of beauty to the table but also an added layer of durability over what is generally offered by asphalt shingles.
Whichever Product You Choose – Hire a Certified Contractor
While you may be able to research the different types of roofing products on the internet, it would be in your best interest to consult a professional certified contractor about what roofing options work best for your home and for the area that you live. Not all roofing materials may be available for your region and depending on the style and structure of your home some materials may not be your best option.
Some roofing products will last longer than the generally anticipated lifespan of any modern roof. If you are at all concerned about the state of the environment and what is going in to our landfills, then shingling a roof with one of these other materials can be a huge benefit to your cause. There are many reasons why but the first to consider is that the less often you replace your roof, the less waste you are creating. The benefits do not end here though.
Wood shingles offer an added layer of insulation that will help keep warm air inside during the months of winter and cool air inside the home during those dog days of summer. This leads to the consumption of less energy (which also saves on your energy bills) and the release of less pollution as a result of the diminished need for power.
Metal roofs provide an added environmental benefit in that they can be placed over existing roofs. This means that there is very little waste when these roofs are installed. In about 50 years from now, when the time comes to replace that metal roof, the metal that was used on the roof is completely recyclable.
Slate roofs are known to outlast even metal roofs… and individual shingles can be replaced as needed in order to avoid the expense and waste of replacing an entire roof in one fell swoop. What this means for you is that you will spend a lot more up front but will not be likely to need to replace this particular roof anytime within your lifetime.
