The next time you walk outside, take a moment to gaze up at your roof. What do you see? Do you see even shingles that are all laying flat? Or do you see shingles that are starting to curl and that are covered in moss? You can tell a lot about the condition of your roof just by looking at it. If you are at all concerned about the state of your roof, then your first call should be to a roofing contractor. They can evaluate the situation and recommend repairs or replacement as needed. Learn more about roofing and roofing contractors here on this website.
Lori Silva
Many American roofs have asphalt shingles as their roofing material. Although many, newer types of roof materials, such as metal and composite tiles, can be very attractive, there is still a strong case to be made for choosing asphalt shingles for your new roof. This tried and true material is affordable and versatile. However, these are just two of the many reasons to consider asphalt shingles when you go shopping for your next roof.
Benefits of asphalt roofing shingles
1. They are affordable.
Perhaps the greatest advantage of choosing asphalt shingles is the cost. This type of roofing material is much less expensive than most other types of roofing material. The average asphalt shingle roof will cost between $4.00 and $5.55 per square foot. This compares to between $8.95 and $14.70 per square foot for a metal roof.
2. They are environmentally friendly.
Asphalt shingles are made from mostly recycled materials. In addition, when it comes time to replace your roof again, your asphalt shingles will again be recyclable.
3. They are energy efficient.
Modern asphalt shingles come in a variety of light, medium, and dark tones. The type that's right for you depends on the climate in your area. For example, light shingles will absorb fewer of the sun's UV rays than darker shingles, allowing you to cool your home using less energy. This not only reduces your family's carbon footprint but offers you savings on your summer cooling bill as well.
4. They are versatile.
Asphalt shingles come in a variety of colors and a variety of patterns. There's something to match almost any style of house. There are also types of asphalt shingles that resemble slate tiles and cedar shake shingles (at a fraction of the cost of those materials).
5. They are easy to install.
Asphalt shingles are one of the easiest materials for your roofing contractor to install. Depending on the size of your roof, your roof technicians might be able to complete the job in a single day. This compares to up to a week to install a metal roof. The less time it takes for installation, the lower your overall roofing cost will be. In addition, it's easier to find a roofer that's skilled in asphalt shingle installation than it can be to find someone to install materials like slate.
While an asphalt shingle roof may not be the right choice for every homeowner, it's still worth asking your roofing contractor about. This type of roofing material is affordable, versatile, and recyclable.
For more information, contact a local roofing contractor today.