Odds are, you aren’t thinking much about your roof until it springs a leak and starts to affect your indoor quality of living. When it comes time to replace all or part of your home’s roof, the number of options available to you can quickly become overwhelming.
Which shingles should you choose and why? Unfortunately, there is no clear-cut answer for which shingles are best. Each type offers a different set of strengths and weaknesses and your decision will depend on which considerations top your priority list.
Here are 4 roofing tips for picking the right shingles for your home.
Roofing Tip #1: Consider Durability
First and foremost, you’ll want to consider the level of durability needed from your roofing shingles in Northern Virginia. How is the climate in your area. Does your area get hit with a lot of powerful storms? Do a large number trees that lend to the potential of fallen branches surround your home? The more durable your roofing shingles, the longer they will last.
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Clay shingles
Clay shingles last longer than any other roofing material and as such, have become a popular option for roofing shingles in Northern Virginia. -
Metal shingles
Metal shingles offer a unique look that many homeowners are choosing for their roofing shingles because they provide extremely durable protection against even the most severe conditions. -
Synthetic slate shingles
Synthetic slate shingles are lower in cost compared to authentic slate shingles, are more durable and prevent the growth of mold and mildew.
Selecting a strong roofing material such as those listed above could outlast less durable roofing material by up to four times, saving money and effort in the long run and adding excellent value to your home.
Roofing Tip #2: Consider Cost
Shingles are sold by square foot. You can estimate the cost of your roofing shingles in Northern Virginia or Southern Virginia by using a tape measure to determine the length and width of your home’s roof. Multiply the two measurements together to get the square footage.
As with many things, you get what you pay for with roofing material. Are you seeking a long-term solution or a short-term fix? Spending more now will save in the long run, but if you aren’t planning on living in the home for long, a less expensive material like composite shingles might suit your needs and provide adequate quality for selling your home. Make a pros and cons list to determine which is more important, budget or brawn.
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Asphalt shingles
Asphalt shingles are the industry standard and as such, cost less than other roofing material. Asphalt is fire resistant, can last up to 30 years and may be the perfect match for a pros and cons list that doesn’t tip the scale one way or the other.
Roofing Tip #3: Consider Energy Efficiency
Going green not only adds value to your home, but it can save big bucks in the long run by cutting down on utility bills. Some roofing material insulates better than others, keeping warm or cool in and the opposite out. This means running the A/C or heater less frequently.
Tile is an excellent choice for energy efficient roofing shingles in Northern Virginia. For a less expensive route, check out cedar shingles that are, by nature, a dense and insulating wood-type. Any roofing product that has an Energy Star logo means it’s been tested to provide a superior level of energy efficiency.
Roofing Tip #4: Consider Style
For many, cost and durability make the top of the priority list but curb appeal may also play a significant factor in your selection of roofing shingles in Northern Virginia.
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Laminate shingles
Laminate shingles match the durability of asphalt shingles but are considered more visually appealing because they can be made to look like higher-end, designer shingles without the cost and maintenance. -
Cedar shake shingles
Cedar shake shingles can be stained or textured to compliment a variety of architectural styles. It ages gracefully and naturally repels the growth of bacteria and fungus, maintaining its own appearance with little to no help from you.
Once you have a better understanding of which considerations are most important, you’ll be able to narrow your search down to the roofing shingles in Northern Virginia that best match your wants and needs. The most important thing is to keep your roofing system well-maintaned to keep your new shingles in top shape and prolong their life. You’ll want to seek the assistance and expertise of a professional home improvement contractor in your area to handle the installation. They can also offer experience-driven insight that will help to further refine your roofing shingles search.
Image Credit: michael clarke stuff
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