10 Considerations When You're Choosing Roof Shingles for Your House

Roof shingles are considered one of the most crucial building materials in home protection. They are one of the first structures impacted by outside elements. Choosing roof shingles for your home is an important decision that can significantly impact your home’s safety, curb appeal, protection, and architectural style.

There are plenty of options in the market for shingles. How can you know which types of roof shingles are cost-efficient, appealing to the eye, and can keep your home safe? To help you make an informed decision, we will comb through what to consider when selecting roof shingles for your home.

Different Types of Shingles and Roofing

There are various kinds of roof shingles to choose from. All shingle types have their unique benefits and advantages. Here are the top three types of shingles used in the Edmonton area.

1. Concrete Roofing Tiles:

Concrete tiles are durable and long-lasting, and with proper installation, these roofing tiles can last anywhere between 30-60 years. Concrete shingles can withstand harsh weather, making them an excellent choice for Edmonton’s residential buildings.

2. Architectural Shingles

Architectural shingles are well-known for their versatility, style and resounding durability. They can even mimic other materials such as wood, cedar or slate shingles. Aesthetically they have a variety of colours, shapes, and sizes.

3. Cedar Shakes

Cedar shakes are an exceptional natural insulator and can maintain dimensional stability under various environmental conditions. These shingles are very cost-efficient with low installation prices. Additionally, they are environmentally friendly and energy efficient due to coming from a renewable resource.

Plenty of other home options include composition shingles, dimensional shingles, metal roof shingles, and asphalt shingles. Regardless of the type of shingle you consider, these ten factors can help guide you toward the right shingle for your home.

10 Considerations

1. Type of Roof

Consider the design and slope of your roof when researching shingles. All homes have unique roof shapes, such as incline, flat or peaked. Certain shingles may be more suitable than others, and choosing the correct one will ensure proper installation and optimal performance.

2. Typical Climate

Take into consideration the climate of your community. Also, consider factors like extreme weather, precipitation levels, average wind speeds, snowfall, and humidity. For example, specific shingles will provide better protection from heavy snow such as slate, metal, asphalt and cedar.

3. Environmental Impact

It’s increasingly important to choose sustainable options when purchasing housing materials. Evaluate the environmental impact and consider choosing recyclable, renewable or sustainable materials to reduce your carbon footprint.

4. Cost

Creating a roofing budget and checking the price differences between shingle types can help reduce overall costs. It’s important to remember that some shingles may have a higher up-front cost but will save you money in the long run due to durability and maintenance costs.

5. Lifespan

Lifespan takes into account the durability and energy efficiency of the shingles. Materials such as slate or cedar have considerably longer life spans when compared to other kinds of shingles.

6. Availability of Materials

If there is a low amount of shingle material you are looking for in your area, the project’s cost may increase due to a lack of availability.

7. Aesthetics

Besides protection, shingles contribute mainly to your home’s appearance. Take time to look through colours, textures, and shapes to help improve your homes outside. When in doubt, always ask an expert.

8. Curb Appeal

Choosing shingles that compliment your home’s style can even help improve your home’s selling price. Curb appeal is the general attractiveness of your home. Typically, the more appealing the house, the higher the price.

9. Maintenance Requirements

Each shingle material will have different requirements and needs for care. Consider each one and if the upkeep is practical for your lifestyle. Some shingles require more maintenance, checks, cleanings, and repairs to ensure longevity.

10. Professional Installers

Finally, hiring an esteemed roofing company can increase the chances that your roof will stay in peak condition. Professional installers will install your roof shingles properly and educate you on all aspects of caring for your roof.

Roof Shingles Edmonton

If you require roofing services, the roofers at Dwight’s Roofing can help you choose the best shingle for your home and walk you through these ten points in greater detail. Our team consists of professional, vetted roofers passionate about providing top-quality roof installation and repair.

Contact us today for more information or request a free quote to experience the customized solution for your roofing needs.