The type and quality of the material you opt to use are directly related to expense and longevity in roofing. Therefore, it is ill-advised to shop for a roofing material based only on price because spending a bit more may result in a roof which lasts for decades.
While a cheap roof has minimal upfront costs, it isn’t a bargain since you will need to replace it sooner. Below is the expected longevity of residential roofing materials to put things into perspective:
- Asphalt shingles lasts 10-20 years
- Composite lasts 15 to 40 years
- Wood shingles last 25 to 30 years
- Standing-seam metal lasts 30 to 50 years
- Clay or cement lasts 50 to 100 years
- Slate lasts 100 years or more
In the US, shingles are the most common type of roofing material, covering 70% to 80% of homes in the country. Additionally, shingles are physically visible from the ground, and you can inspect them quickly by walking around your home’s perimeter. However, hiring a local roofer in Jacksonville, FL, is best for an up-close and professional roof inspection.
What are Roof Shingles?
Shingles refer to a roof covering made up of individual overlapping elements – typically flat, rectangular shapes. During a roof replacement, installation, or repair, roofers lay shingles in courses starting from the roof’s bottom edge and work up to the peak.
Various materials are used as shingles, including wood, asphalt, slate, metal, plastic, and composite materials.
- Manufacturers saw wood shingles from red cedar or pine, with modern products needing chemical treatment to make them fire-resistant and durable.
- Aluminum shingle panels are comparatively expensive and typically have a long life span.
- Asphalt shingles are composed of fiberglass, asphalt, stone granules, sealant, and release film.
Roof Shingles Installation
Since shingles are visible when installed, they form a critical aspect of your roof and home’s aesthetics in terms of color, pattern, and texture. The material you use is of particular importance because it can affect the construction method and curb appeal.
Roofers install all shingles from the bottom up. They begin with a starter course (also called starter strips) and the edge seams to prevent leaks. Underneath, they add an underlayment to prevent leakage due to different weather elements. StormForce is a premier roofing contractor in Jacksonville, FL, and has protected thousands of homes and families in Northeast Florida since 2011. We do roof repair, roof replacement, and emergency weather services to protect your investment. Contact us to discuss your next project.