What is a shingle roof?

If you are planning to replace your roof, you have probably quickly learned that there are many, many options for roofing materials to choose from. One of the most common and popular styles of residential roofs is a shingle roof. A shingle roof is a sloping roof covered in many overlapping small pieces of material, called shingles.

A shingle roof is installed from the bottom up; this means that each row of shingles overlaps the row beneath it. Because of this, water flows down and off of the shingles rather than getting beneath them and damaging the roof. The most popular type of shingles for residential roofs in North America is asphalt shingles. However, shingles can be made of other materials such as wood, metal, and ceramic. Asphalt shingles are cheaper and lighter than most other materials, though. Because of this, asphalt shingle roofs are the most common residential roofs in North America.

So, why are shingle roofs popular, rather than using larger pieces of material? There are a few good reasons:

• 1. Simple to plan and install
• 2. Pleasing appearance
• 3. Durable sloped roof
• 4. Cost effective (usually)

First and foremost, shingle roofs are easier to plan and install. Because each individual shingle is quite small, it’s easy to follow a custom roof shape without having to waste large amounts of the roofing material. Furthermore, shingles are very easy to install. They require less training and expertise to install than other types of roofing, which means the cost of labour is lower.

Secondly, shingle roofs have a classic and attractive appearance. When you picture a house in your imagination, chances are you are picturing it with a shingle roof. As well, shingles can come in a range of colours and textures. While asphalt shingles are the lightest and cheapest, other types of shingles can add a great deal to the aesthetic of your home.

Thirdly, shingle roofs are durable. Because they are sloped, they shed water, snow and debris easily, so that these things don’t sit on, and damage, your roof. The overlapping shingles also provide multiple layers of protection to the roof, reducing the chances of leaks if installed properly. An asphalt shingle roof can last 20-30 years, and shingle roofs made of tile or stone can last 50 years or more.

Finally, shingle roofs can be the most inexpensive roof option. As we noted above, they tend to have lower labour costs than other types of roof. Also, because you can replace individual shingles when they are damaged, maintaining the roof is less expensive over time. And the materials themselves, if you choose asphalt shingles, are amongst the cheapest roofing material available. Cheap materials plus lower labour costs means an inexpensive roof.

Hopefully, you now have a better understanding of what a shingle roof is, and whether or not a shingle roof is right for your home. Ask your expert roofer for a quote to install, upgrade, or replace your shingle roof.