Roof shingles overlap to create the ultimate shield for your property, preventing rainfall from entering your roof and causing subsequent damage. But how many years of longevity can you expect from your roofing shingle installation?
Read on as our ultimate guide explores shingle roofing longevity and how you can gain the most out of your installation.
What Are Roof Shingles?
Roof shingles are separate pieces of roof material that are fitted in an overlapping pattern to protect your building. The overlapping style of installation helps to prevent rainfall from seeping into any exposed gaps whilst also helping with water drainage.
In addition to protecting buildings from weather conditions, many types of roofing shingles improve the overall aesthetic of your property to complement unique architectural styles.
Are There Different Types of Shingle Roofing?
Whilst shingles are typically arranged in the same pattern, there are different types of materials that offer alternative aesthetics and colour choices, as well as a myriad of price points.
Here are our top 5 types of roofing materials used for shingles:
1. Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt roofing shingles are the most commonly used type of roof shingle due to the affordability offered to homeowners. Asphalt is also a versatile material that can be adapted for different types of home.
Made from a fibreglass base mat, these shingles are covered in asphalt and mineral granules and are manufactured in three design styles.
Three-tab asphalt roof shingles are actually one piece of roofing material that has slits located at the bottom, providing an appearance of three different shingles in a layered pattern. This style of asphalt shingle is a budget-friendly option although is not the strongest type of shingle, nor the most attractive.
Architectural shingles offer a more aesthetically pleasing look, utilising several layers of material and a laminated appearance. However, architectural shingles will cost more when paying for your roof shingle installation.
Designer shingles are the more luxurious choice of asphalt shingle roofing, copying the aesthetic of the more expensive slate roof. Designer shingles are thicker and much stronger than standard asphalt shingles.
2. Clay Shingles
Clay shingles are, of course, made from clay, and can create an attractive Spanish tile roof, particularly when a terracotta tile is installed.
As a robust roofing material, clay tiles are fire resistant and offer strong protection against the elements so is a popular choice for homeowners living in difficult climates.
Clay shingles are more expensive than asphalt tiles, however, so can last as long as 100 years and provide excellent value for money.
3. Slate Shingles
If a luxury aesthetic is what you need for your roof then slate shingles could be your perfect roof tile. Made from natural slate stone, these high-end roof shingles look great and are a very durable choice.
4. Wooden Shingles
Wooden shingles can be installed on a rustic home to create a unique and traditional aesthetic. Made from either redwood or cedar wood, wood shingles are suited for properties positioned in calmer climates.
However, wood shingles are highly flammable and could pose a fire risk. Additionally, wooden tiles could be vulnerable to mould and mildew, reducing its potential longevity.
5. Metal Shingles
Metal shingles are fire resistant and will also protect your roof from rot. They can be purchased in a variety of metal materials including steel, aluminium, or copper, depending on the colour choice you want for your property.
How Long Do Roof Shingles Last?
The longevity of roof shingles depends on the material used as well as the climate that the roof will need to withstand.
Clay tiles and slate tiles will usually last longer than other shingle materials, offering homeowners at least 50 years of use. When using this traditional roofing material, you could receive at least 100 years of longevity when the shingles are well maintained.
Metal shingles can also offer your home value for money, with many metal roofs lasting for around 60 to 70 years at least.
However, asphalt shingles and wooden tiles do not last as long, typically providing your home with around 20 years of use. After this length of time, the asphalt tiles may begin to crack whilst wooden tiles could rot.
Other factors that impact how long your roof shingles will last include the quality of your installation and how well you maintain the roof.
For example, regular shingle roof inspections should take place to identify and replace loose or cracked shingles, particularly after an extreme storm or hail shower. Homes that are located in hot climates are also susceptible to damage due to the impact of the heat.
Final Thoughts on Shingle Roofing Materials Longevity
The shingles installed on your roof must offer your home a good level of protection to shield your property away from extreme weather conditions.
Higher quality shingles will offer your home greater longevity and a better shield to stop water damage and prevent subsequent repairs.
Visit RoofStuff now for more information. You can find a range of products such as flashing to suit any budget, roof repair solutions and ventilation options.
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