Why is asphalt shingle an indispensable part of any home renovation project?- Roofs are an essential part of any home, although they tend to be the most neglected part as well. Different houses have different styles of roofs, and that is one of the reasons each one demands repairs or renovations at different times.
The most common type of roofing is shingles, which refers to the wooden tiles that are typical for houses in many places.These have high visibility, and they contribute significantly to the aesthetics of a building. They can have different colors, textures, and patterns. Roofers typically suggest shingles made from locally available materials. This option makes them an economical choice, and it also ensures easy replacement in the event of damage after a natural calamity.
Why should you consider asphalt roofing shingles?
There was a time when shingles were a fire hazard. They had high flammability, and they led to conflagrations. However, most roof shingles are not fire-proof or fire-retardant. The modern wooden shingles of pressure-impregnated wood are usually not hazardous anymore. When roofers couple these with individual roof assemblies, they can become entirely safe for any home in any place.
Nonetheless, if you want to avoid the wooden roof shingles, you can always go for asphalt shingles. The new fiberglass asphalt shingles are not only fire retardant, but they are also highly cost-effective. Asphalt shingles can last between 20 to 60 years depending on the quality of shakes and shingles you choose. The level of expertise of the roofers also contributes to the longevity of the roofs.
Since asphalt shingles are the most popular of all roofing materials USA, we thought of adopting the latest product and practice in Australia as well. The advancement of technology has allowed us to leave the days behind when the hot sun and the rain could leach the long-chain petroleum hydrocarbons out of the asphalt and shrink it. Now, most of the shingles are not only more enduring, but they are also fashionable and customizable for almost all Australian homes. Do you want to renovate the roof of your Victorian Era –inspired home? You can check out a bunch of vintage-looking shingle designs from here. You want to re-roof your modern and minimalist home? Pick a simple, yet a suave design that will catch the eyes of the passersby. These designs have the power to increase the real estate value of your property in a jiffy.
Here are the three most important facts about asphalt shingles you must remember –
- The most popular asphalt shingles include organic shingles and fiberglass shingles.
- These customizable shingles come in multitudes of designs and sizes. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of colors you can pick for your house.
- Many of them come with energy star certifications. That means you will not only be renovating your home. You will also be making an upgrade that will save you a fortune in the future.
Fiberglass shingles for your home
Asphalt shingles containing fiberglass include a fiberglass base mat, and they also come with waterproof coatings. Apart from being weatherproof, this shingle variety also has the following benefits –
- Fiberglass asphalt shingles are very lightweight
- These are fire-resistant
- They come with a more extended warranty
- These are not as expensive as most of the roofing materials you will come across today
- They are incredibly durable especially due to their resistance to UV rays
In the warmer climates, the incessant heat and the damaging UV rays from the sun are the main challenges to the integrity of roofing materials. However, local roofers always know the best quality of roofing options available that can withstand the local climatic conditions for decades to come. Moreover, asphalt-fiberglass materials also get a coating of asphalt and various minerals that make the shingles waterproof.
Organic shingles for the eco-friendly homeowner
Wood chips, recycled cardboard, paper, and rags can churn up amazing things if you have the right technology available. These can comprise new organic asphalt shingles that are not only easy on the pocket but are also durable. Moreover, you get brownie points for conserving materials and recycling. Here’s why we think organic asphalt shingles are fantastic for your home –
- They are entirely waterproof, so you don’t have to worry when the rains come.
- They are much more substantial than fibreglass shingles, and endure strong winds.
- They are incredibly inexpensive, yet they are durable.
- Roofers also refer to them as felt mat asphalt shingles.
Unless you live in an area with high humidity and snowfall, you can easily save a few pretty bucks by opting for organic shingles. Typically, in the drier areas, even with the sweltering heat, you can expect the organic shingles to last for about twenty years. So, when you are looking at organic shingle options for your home, you should think about it as a two-decade worth investment rather than an unwanted expense.
How can you cut costs while replacing your old roof?
No matter which material you pick, the style of roofing can help you save a fortune. Thankfully, shingles are amicable to different styling options like architectural shingles and three-tab shingles. Choosing a three-tab shingle roofing style can reduce the cost of roofing to about half of the expense of architectural shingles. Moreover, your home will get to enjoy a distinct personality due to the cut-outs that run along the bottom. Architectural shingles do not have cut-outs, and they have extra asphalt. Three-tab shingles have fewer curves as compared to architectural shingles. If you have a low roof design, you should consider choosing three-tab shingles over architectural ones.
Irrespective of the style you pick and the material you choose, you should always ensure that the shingles come with an Energy Star Certification. That will keep your home warmer during the winter and cooler during the summer. That automatically means lower energy costs throughout the year. It is imperative that you go through all your asphalt shingle options before you choose one to save money and make a smart investment on your property.
Author Bio:
John Mathew is a creative Architect. He is always willing to spread his knowledge about Home Renovation, Home Décor etc. He loves to dig new ideas on Home Improvement.
