When it comes to choosing a roof for your home, it can be easy for you to get confused or feel overwhelmed about which type to pick. You’ll want to choose a roofing option that is the best fit for the structure and that also offers plenty of benefits.
One notable option is composition shingles. These are a type of shingles that have a fiberglass reinforcing mat at the center, which is then coated with mineral fillers, as well as with asphalt. This asphalt coating is what makes the shingles waterproof. The top surface of the shingle is then embedded with a layer of ceramic granules.
So, you may be wondering, what is it about these particular shingles that sets them apart from the rest? Composition shingles are one of the most popular options in modern roofing. In fact, they make up about 85% of home roofing systems. And, when you look at what kind of benefits they provide, you’ll understand why that is.
1. First of all, composition shingles are a very affordable option.
The low upfront cost of these shingles is a major reason why they have become so popular. The cost per square foot is lower than other roofing options, and the framework to hold these shingles is also typically less expensive. This means that you can get high quality and aesthetically pleasing shingles that will not cost you a fortune. Because composition shingles are also typically quite easy to replace, this will further help by cut costs if repairs are ever required.
2. The fact that these shingles are relatively easy to install, repair, and replace is another great benefit.
Contractors have found that it takes less time to install and replace composition shingles than it does for some other roofing options. Once installed, if you lose a shingle, they are easy to repair on a one-on-one basis. Overall, they are also relatively low maintenance.
Since composition shingles are so popular, they are also more readily available. Some less popular roofing options aren’t available in every area, meaning you would have to search to find them or to find a contractor. Fortunately, nearly every roofing contractor will know how to install and repair composition shingles.
3. Composition shingles are also highly durable.
These shingles are known for having a longer lifespan than some other types, often lasting for several decades.
When you choose composition shingles, you can have peace of mind knowing you can count on them for years to come. And over the years, composition shingles will also be able to flex and adapt to a roof’s movements due to expansion and contraction.
The durability of these shingles also means they are great protection against the elements and do not allow for moisture buildup. This is especially great in the Pacific Northwest region, where roofs can take quite a beating from harsh UV rays, lots of rainy days, high winds, and hail.
Composition shingles are also highly flame resistant, which can protect your home from fire damage. These shingles can also help to prevent mold, algae, or fungus from growing.
4. Composition shingles can also be a very eco-friendly choice.
These days, contractors understand that more and more people are looking to do whatever they can to live in an environmentally conscious way. And the materials used to build a home are a major factor in this intention.
When you decide to go with Interstate Roofing for your contractor needs, you’ll find that we offer sustainable roof shingles. This includes shingles that are Energy Star rated. Interstate Roofing is a GAF Certified Green Roofing Contractor and offers many green roofing and home improvement products. Aside from sustainable roof shingles, additional green products the company offers include skylights, solar tubes, and solar-powered vents.
Composition shingles are a greener choice because they help to shield your home from harmful UV rays, which can also decrease your energy costs. CertainTeed, one of the manufacturers Interstate Roofing works with, has sustainable roof shingles that reflect solar energy far better than traditional roofing shingles. The composition shingles themselves can also be recycled.
Interstate Roofing is very committed to going green beyond offering sustainable roof shingles. Unlike other contractors, Interstate Roofing employees will recycle the construction debris, so it doesn’t just end up in a landfill. You can find more information about this commitment to going green and the sustainable roof shingles here.
5. When you choose composition shingles, you get to pick from a variety of options.
A roof, of course, isn’t just for protection against weather and the elements. It is also a key component of a home’s overall aesthetic. Some roofing options only offer one kind of look. However, with composition shingles, you can choose from a wide range of different colors and styles to complement the architecture and landscape of the home as a whole.
Manufacturers are also offering roof shingles that come in “cool colors”, which help to make the roof shingles more sustainable. This is because the lighter colors will better reflect the sun’s rays.
Offering both composition shingles and single ply membranes, Interstate Roofing has been one of the largest roofing contractors in the Pacific Northwest region for over two decades now.
No longer do homeowners just throw up any old roof onto their homes. You are selective and particular, as you should be. You want a product that is durable, long-lasting, green, and looks good, too. At Interstate Roofing, we will help you determine the best composition shingle for your home and you’ll be delighted with the results for years to come.