A Complete Guide to Roof Shingles

Understanding Your Shingle Roof

Shingle roofing is a kind of roofing that uses overlapping or interlocking strips of tile to cover the pitched roof. Shingles are laid together in rows, from the bottom to the top of a roof, in order to create a barrier against water, snow, and ice. Each shingle is overlapped by a shingle above it, so that water flows down these overlapping shingles and straight off of your roof. Roof shingles are designed to protect your roof from water damage, but they also affect the look of a house, provide different levels of energy efficiency, and impact the longevity of your roof.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Shingle Roofing

Shingle roofing is easy to install, though it still requires a professional roofer. It is versatile, as there are many different forms and styles of shingles, and some types of shingles are extremely durable. It also affordable, both because the materials tend to be inexpensive and because roofing repairs are manageable and cost-effective. Shingle roofing is energy-efficient, impact and hazard rated, and provides insulation against external noises. On the other hand, shingles are not always as weather resistant as other types of roofing, and they can be vulnerable to high winds. Of course, this largely depends on the type of shingles you choose, and some shingles are very sturdy, even in bad weather. Additionally, while it’s easy to find a roofing contractor for basic shingles, if you want something less common you may have trouble finding a specialized contractor to take on the job.

Choosing Shingles for a Roof Replacement

What are the different types of shingles, and what are the advantages and disadvantages of each type?

• Asphalt (3-tab) Shingles: These are the least expensive shingles, which is probably why they are the most common. They are easy to install, come in a wide array of color options, and will last for up to 20 years. The drawbacks of asphalt shingles are that they wear out quickly and will require repair.
• Composite Shingles: Composite shingles are made of plastic, but they are environmentally friendly because they are made from recycled materials. Designed to mimic other types of shingles, they are extremely varied in design, and they are lightweight and easy to install. They are very inexpensive, but only have a lifespan of 7 to 20 years.
• Wood Shingles: These shingles are perfectly rectangular and made from different kinds of light wood, split into thin sections and layered. They are relatively expensive, and last for 15 to 20 years. Wooden shingles are right in the middle of the pack, in terms of cost.
• Metal Shingles: These are around the same price as composite shingles, but have an extremely long lifespan, lasting up to 100 years.
• Rubber Shingles: These can be made to look like slate, but they usually look like asphalt shingles, and are more durable, even though they have about the same lifespan. Rubber shingles are among the most eco-friendly options, and though they are more expensive than asphalt, they are less expensive than other sustainable options.
• Cedarwood Shake Shingles: Popular since the Colonial era, these differ from other wood shingles in that they look more rustic and textured. They cost about as much as other wood shingles.
• Clay Tile Shingles: Also known as architectural terracotta clay tiles, these tiles are 100 percent natural and ae considered “cool roofing” because they deflect the sun’s rays and help to keep the house cool. Many clay roofing tiles have a natural brown-orange color, but they can also be customized with different colors and textures. Their price point varies widely.
• Slate Shingles: These are among the most expensive shingles, right behind solar shingles. However, they are also extremely durable, fireproof, and eco-friendly. They have been used since the mid-1800s, and are a beautiful, natural option.
• Solar Shingles: As you would expect, these shingles are very expensive. However, the entire roof doesn’t need to be solar shingles; they only need to be installed in the spots that get the most sun, and you can choose a less expensive option for the rest of the roof. Using modern technology, they generate electricity during the day to power the house at night and help you save on energy costs.

For Roof Repair or Replacement Trust Our Experienced Roofing Company

If you need a new roof, why not choose a roofing company that genuinely enjoys their work? At East Coast Renewable, we proudly provide comprehensive exterior solutions for residential and commercial customers in Charlotte, NC and the surrounding areas, including Asheville, Columbia, and Greenville. Our specialties include roof repair and replacement, gutter installation and repair, and siding solutions that provide both durability and aesthetic appeal. Whether you need maintenance, upgrades, or a complete overhaul, our team is here to respond quickly, explain your options, and provide quality craftsmanship and high quality service to meet your needs and exceed your expectations. Because we believe in treating others as we want to be treated, we offer clear, honest communication, prioritizing accountability, respect, empathy, and integrity. We know that working with contractors can sometimes be a challenge, which is why we prioritize our customers’ trust and strive for complete transparency, providing careful documentation and clear communication, honoring the quote that was given, and making the entire process not only efficient but enjoyable for our customers. To discuss your roofing needs and schedule a service appointment, contact us for your free inspection today!