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The single most important thing protecting your home from wind, weather, and water is the roof. Deciding what type of roof is right for your home is an important decision. Each type of roofing offers a different quality, appearance, and durability.
Most people, when they think of roofing, think of the asphalt shingle. Affordable, durable, reliable, and very replaceable, the asphalt shingle is a standard for very good reasons! Asphalt shingles are divided into 2 categories
FIBERGLASS
Fiberglass shingles, as their name implies, are made of a woven fiberglass base that is covered with an asphalt coating to make them waterproof. The asphalt coating is then topped with ceramic granules that provide both UV protection and color. Fiberglass shingles tend to be lighter in weight than their organic counterparts, since less asphalt is needed in the manufacturing process and that fiberglass mat provides a lot of strength and durability. Fiberglass shingles also tend to have a higher fire-proof rating and longer warranty than organic shingles. In the three decades since they were introduced to the market, fiberglass shingles have become the go-to choice for most contractors.
ORGANIC
Organic shingles are made from a mat of recycled felt paper which is saturated with asphalt for waterproofing, then coated with an additional layer of asphalt and ceramic granules. Because organic shingles use more asphalt in their manufacturing process, they are thicker, heavier, and more expensive than fiberglass. Organic shingles are definitely rugged and flexible, but they are not a “green” option and tend to absorb more water than their fiberglass cousins.
Both fiberglass and organic asphalt shingles come in a standard size (12” x 36”) and are available in two different types:
Three-Tab Shingles have cutouts called tabs along their long lower edge. When installed, each shingle looks like three individual shingles due to the overlapping of the tabbed edges. Three-tab shingles are a good choice for longevity – 15 to 20 years on average – but don’t offer much by way of “designer” look and feel. If you’re looking for a basic roofing material, three-tab asphalt shingles are the way to go.
Architectural Shingles on the other hand, are a higher-end version of the fiberglass asphalt shingle. They don’t have a tab, which allows them to have a more contoured look. Architectural shingles come in a variety of colors and can create stunning effects – like slate or shake – at a fraction of the cost. Rugged and durable, architectural shingles last a bit longer than their three tab counterparts – at 25 to 30 years.
Take a drive through Central Pennsylvania Country side and you’ll probably see a few old farmhouses with metal “standing seam” roofs on them. And, if those roofs have been properly maintained, chances are they’re more than 30 years old. Metal roofing is available in a variety of types, with galvanized metal being the most popular type at present.
These roofs are highly durable, with a lifespan of up to 50 years, and are relatively easy to maintain. A semi-annual coat of paint is pretty much all that is needed to keep them watertight and looking nice. Metal is a great choice for both steep pitched and flat roofs.
In the end, no matter what material you choose for your roof, it’s good to know that you have plenty of options and that, no matter your budget, you’re sure to find a good fit and a nice look for your home.
With over 15 years experience and a real focus on customer satisfaction, you can rely on us for your next project. We provide a professional renovation and installation services with a real focus on customer satisfaction.
The lifespan of a roof depends on several factors:
Traditional asphalt shingle roofs typically last between 12 and 20 years, while slate, tile, and copper roofs may last upwards of 50. Thanks to their durability, metal roofs may enjoy life spans of 40 to 70 years. In regions that experience severe weather conditions such as high winds, snow, and significant rainfall, roofs generally have shorter life expectancies.
Most homeowner’s insurance covers structural damage caused by perils such as hail, wind, fire, and falling trees. This coverage includes your roof. Depending on your policy, coverage may include repair or replacement and may require you to pay a deductible. Some policies also include exclusions for certain conditions.
Not all leaks necessitate a complete roof replacement, and whether you repair or replace your roof likely depends on the extent of the damage. On a relatively new roof, a few damaged or missing shingles may be cost-effective to repair. If the damage is more extensive and involves an older roof or multiple layers of roofing materials, a partial or full replacement is likely in order.
Many signs of a failing roof are obvious and can be spotted during a visual inspection. Warning signs of a failing roof include:
If your home has an asphalt shingle roof that’s more than 20 years old, it may need to be replaced even if it isn’t showing outward signs of failure.
