The current roofing industry combines functionality and aesthetics to achieve excellent outcomes. As a result, shingles come in different materials and designs. The manufacturing process not only entails pleasing customers, but making shingles for different weather conditions. Therefore, when you go looking for roofing materials, you should move beyond their appearance and gauge their suitability for the climate you live in. If you’re doing your own projects, remember to use the right equipment. If working from height, make sure to check out ladders or access towers, which we rent out at affordable rates, all over the United Kingdom.
Here are the most common roofing shingles and how they’re used best:
#1. Slate Shingles
Slate shingles are products of sedimentary rock deposits. These roofing materials are, therefore, heavier and longer lasting than other shingles. However, slate can break easily, so it needs careful handling. If you decide to use these shingles, you should find a qualified contractor to do the installation. Slate is best for humid climates, since they have algaecides to keep algae away.
Slate shingles stand out because the material allows the manufacturers to come up with beautiful design features. It is no wonder that this material is an expensive, high-end product in most markets. Given that it also provides excellent weather and fire protection, it’s one of the best shingles you can buy.
#2. Metal Shingles
Metal shingles make for a highly durable roof, with little maintenance costs. The shingles may come from aluminum, copper or steel. The tough nature of these metals makes them the strongest of all shingles, with an average lifespan of about 50 years. The installation process is also straightforward, since one can install the shingles on almost any existing roof.
Metal shingles will satiate many customer tastes, since they come in different colors and designs. Due to the vast selection of available options, the material is common in many parts of the world. However, it is suitable for areas with strong winds, since the toughness of the material and its flat installation design make it resistant to high wind forces.
#3. Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most commonly used shingles, and they come in different colors and designs. However, the shingles fall into two categories: organic and fiberglass. Organic shingles are made from waste paper that is soaked in asphalt, and then coated with an adhesive. Fiberglass, on the other hand, uses fiberglass to reinforce the waste paper, instead of an adhesive. The thickness of the shingle varies, depending on the quantity of asphalt used.
Asphalt is lighter than slate and metal, which makes it demanding when it comes to maintenance. Its lifespan is also relatively low, at about 20-30 years. However, the nature of asphalt shingles makes them appropriate in areas which experience strong winds and high precipitation. The lightness allows them to resist wind currents, while their coating prevents algae from growing, due to dampness.
#4. Concrete Tiles
Concrete tiles are the most versatile type of roofing materials, since the manufacturing process allows for various design options. The production involves pouring concrete into molds of varying shapes and sizes. After this, multiple colors are painted onto the tiles. However, the roofing support needs to be strong enough to hold the tiles, since they are usually bulky and heavy.
The tough nature of the concrete tiles makes them suitable for harsh weather conditions. They are great for areas with frequent high winds, and they also offer noise insulation. They are also heat absorbers, so they are ideal for desert climates, and are found in places like Arizona and Nevada. Some other advantages of concrete tiles are that they are easy to maintain, are fireproof, and offer a lifespan of over 50 years.
#5. Wood Shingles
Wood shingles are light and attractive materials, made from cut wood. The lightness of timber makes the installation process relatively easy. However, wood shingles require a high level of maintenance because they are susceptible to splits, rot, and mold. Since they are a fire hazard, they are less popular than other roofing materials.
Wood shingles improve a home’s insulation, absorb moisture, and offer resistance to sun rays. These features make wood roofing a suitable material for almost any weather. If it’s a windy area, heavier wood and a firmer installation will be needed. If it is a humid climate, a thicker, protective coating can be applied to the wood.
Conclusion
Finding out if a particular roofing material is suitable for the climate of your residence is a prudent step, since it will determine how comfortable you will be in your home. After considering which shingles you’ll be using, you will need to factor in some other aspects such as the budget, longevity, design, and installation difficulties.