These days, there are a lot of options when it comes to roofing your home. You can go for the classic look with cedar shakes, lay down some asphalt shingles for an economical choice, or make a more modern statement with architectural shingles. But what are the benefits of choosing architectural shingles explained over other roofing materials? To help answer this question, let’s explore why choosing architectural shingles might be worth the investment.
Increased Durability
Increased durability is one of the most significant benefits of architectural shingles. Unlike traditional shingles, which usually have a lifespan of around 15-20 years, architectural shingles can last up to 50 years or more. This means that homeowners can have peace of mind knowing that their roofs will not require frequent repairs or replacements.
One reason for architectural shingles’ increased durability is their thickness and weight. They are made from multiple layers of asphalt and durable materials, which make them stronger and more resistant to damage from weather events such as high winds, hail, and heavy rain. Moreover, they are typically rated for high impact resistance, which means they can withstand falling debris and other hazards better than traditional shingles.
Another significant factor that contributes to their durability is their resistance to algae, mildew, and other microorganisms. Architectural shingles have special additives and coatings that discourage the growth of algae and other harmful organisms that thrive in damp environments. This helps to ensure that the shingles last longer.
Aesthetically Pleasing
Architectural shingles are not only advantageous in terms of functionality but also in terms of aesthetics. One of the most commonly cited benefits of architectural shingles is that they are aesthetically pleasing. These shingles are designed to be thicker and more textured than traditional shingles, which gives them a more dimensional look.
Architectural shingles come in a wide range of colors and styles, so homeowners can choose the look that best complements their home’s architectural style. Some manufacturers even offer shingles that are designed to mimic the look of other materials, like wood shakes or slate tiles.
The texture and color variation of architectural shingles can help to create a more interesting and visually appealing roofline, which can add to the overall curb appeal of a home. This can be particularly important for homeowners who are looking to sell their homes, as a more visually appealing exterior can help to attract potential buyers.
Energy Efficiency
These shingles come with superior insulation properties, which help to keep the building cooler in summer and warmer in winter, depending on the climate conditions. The result is a more comfortable living environment that can save homeowners on energy costs.
They consist of multiple layers of asphalt and fiberglass that trap air particles between them. This insulating feature, coupled with the shingles’ reflective surface, helps to reduce heat transfer by blocking the sun’s harmful UV rays from warming up the building’s interiors. Additionally, the well-insulated roof reduces the demand for air conditioning, further lowering energy consumption and consequently, environmental impact.
Easy Installation
These shingles are designed to be easier to install than traditional shingles, which can be a great advantage for contractors and homeowners alike. In fact, many roofing contractors prefer architectural shingles because of their ease of installation and the time and labor savings they provide.
The reason why architectural shingles are easy to install is that they are typically larger than traditional shingles. This means that fewer shingles are needed to cover the same area, which can significantly reduce both installation time and labor costs.
They can be installed over old shingles, which eliminates the need for time-consuming and costly removal processes. They can also be shaped to fit any roof without the need for specialized tools or expertise. This makes architectural shingles perfect for both DIY enthusiasts and professional roofers.
We can see that architectural shingles provide both aesthetic and practical benefits. Whether you’re looking for a classic look to keep the neighbors admiring your home or you need a roof that won’t feed your electric bill each month, these shingles are a great option. Of course, investing in these new architectural shingles will cost you quite a bit more upfront. But after listening to all the benefits, maybe it’s worth taking a gamble on them. Wouldn’t it be nice if your roof paid off in savings? Luckily, there are plenty of warranties available so you could end up actually making money off your roof. So if you think it’s worth the risk, go ahead and invest.
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