Best Roofing Shingles

Best Roofing Shingles

There are several roofing materials that you have to choose from for your house. Learn more about the best roofing shingles right here.



According to recent estimates, the average cost of a new roof is around $10,000. Of course, this will vary based on where you live, the material you choose, and how large your home is. But it shows that getting a new roof is a decision to weigh very carefully.

Choose the best roofing shingles for your home, and it may be a once-in-a-lifetime decision. But choose the wrong ones, and you could be looking for a new roof sooner than expected.

That's why we've put together a guide to replacing a roof with shingles to help you make the right choice the first time. 

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material in the United States. There's something cozy and familiar about them, as most of us probably grew up in a home that had them. But this doesn't necessarily mean they're the best roofing shingles for your home. 

Benefits

They have achieved this level of popularity because they are:

• Relatively cheap
• Lightweight
• Easy to install
• Simple to repair

Another benefit of asphalt shingles is that it is possible to recycle them.

Now, we are not saying that this makes them an eco-friendly material. However, you can extract the asphalt content of used shingles and use it for asphalt pavement. This is something that is likely to become more common in the future.

Asphalt shingles come in a wide range of colors and styles. This makes them a versatile option that can improve the appearance of almost any home.

Asphalt roof shingle prices vary considerably, ranging from $75 to $350 per square (100 square feet). Clearly, the more expensive the roofing materials you choose, the longer the warranty and expected lifespan will be.

Drawbacks

The cheapest roofing materials rarely last the longest, and this is certainly true of asphalt shingles. They have an average life of up to 20 years but may not last that long in the Fort Wayne climate.

While we don't get the extremes some parts of the country do, we're still prone to high winds and frequent snowfall. Add to that the fact that high winds exceeding 50 mph happen on average a couple of times each year and you can expect some serious wear on an asphalt roof. Plus, they're liable to crack when the weather changes.

Asphalt shingles are also notoriously high-maintenance. They may be relatively easy and cheap to repair, but if you have to call someone out regularly to patch your roof, those costs will soon add up.

Other Considerations

The pros and cons mentioned above are true of many types of asphalt shingles. But it's worth mentioning that there are excellent choices in this category.

Some modern shingles provide excellent protection and are able to withstand winds of up to 150 mph. Additionally, shingles protected with Scotch Guard can stop algae and mold from developing on your roof.

A Fort Wayne roofing contractor will be able to talk you through the best options available for your home.

Metal Shingles

When most of us hear the term "metal roof" we probably immediately think of the standing-seam roofs that make a bold statement.

While there are many pros to such roofs, you can get all the benefits of a metal roof while retaining the traditional shingle appearance. Metal shingles can look like asphalt, clay, concrete, and even wood, depending on the finish you choose.

Benefits

Metal shingle roofs are one of the most durable roofing options available. They have a typical lifespan of up to 70 years! So while the upfront cost may be higher than asphalt shingles, you may only need to replace your roof once in your lifetime.

Metal shingles are also very strong and can withstand high wind speeds. They are more impact-resistant than asphalt shingles and generally require much less maintenance.

Drawbacks

There's no getting around the fact that metal shingles will usually set you back more than asphalt shingles will. The average cost of a metal roof ranges from $850 to $1,140 per square (100 square feet) for steel roofs. Other metals, such as aluminum, may be less expensive.

Some people also find metal roofs to be noisier than other roofing materials. Some people love nothing more than the patter of rain on a metal roof. But others may find themselves paying for extra insulation to keep the noise at bay.

Installing a metal roof is not a DIY project, and it's something many roofing contractors are not equipped to carry out successfully. If you do choose this option, make sure you choose a metal roofing contractor with the skills and experience to do a great job.

Other Roofing Materials

While asphalt and metal shingles are the most common options in Fort Wayne, they are far from the only options. Slate tile, plastic shingles, concrete shingles, and even wood shingles are viable options.

Slate tile

Slate tile is a classy, natural material. It is extremely heavy, and you may need structural improvements to your roof to be able to accommodate it. That said, it makes a bold statement and can last for over 100 years when installed correctly.

Plastic Shingles

The idea of a plastic roof may not be the most appealing, but it can be very durable.

Modern plastic roofs mimic the appearance of more traditional roofing materials. They're also very lightweight. However, many roofing contractors are not familiar with this style of construction.

Finding the Best Roofing Shingles

The best roofing shingles for your home will depend on your budget, aspirations, and personal style. While an asphalt roof can be a great option, it's also worth exploring metal roofing to see whether it can provide the look and longevity you need.

To find the best roofing shingles for your project, talk to the experts at TruChoice Roofing. We will carry out a free and thorough roofing inspection and advise you on the best types of roofs for your home.

To schedule your free inspection and get a quotation for your project, call us today at 260-222-8812. Alternatively, reach out online, and we'll get back to you soon.