Before you have a new asphalt shingle roof put on, you'll meet with a residential roofing contractor to select your materials and get your questions answered. If you haven't decided on the type of roofing you want to get yet, you might want to compare roofing options and get advice on the right shingles for your home. Here are a few things to compare when buying new asphalt shingle roofing.
1. Cost Of Materials
Three-tab shingles are the least expensive, so you may need to opt for them due to the size of your budget. However, you'll want to compare the cost of three-tab shingles with architectural and luxury shingles so you know which grade is right for your home. Three-tab shingles cost less, but they also are the least durable and have the shortest life span.
2. Color Of The Granules
Asphalt shingle roofing gets its color from granules that are adhered to the shingle surface. Choosing the right color is important because you want a roof that complements your home's exterior paint, trim, and shutters. You may want to know current color trends, classic colors, and the color of roofing that would go well with your home's current colors if you plan to keep them. A residential roofing contractor can provide samples that let you see different colors in person.
3. Shingle Features
Different types of shingles are available that help you deal with problems you may encounter due to excess shade on your roof or high humidity that encourages algae growth. For instance, some shingles come treated to resist algae. If your roof has ever been covered with black algae stains, you know how ugly the stains can make your home look. Algae-resistant shingles typically have copper granules on the surface, or another type of treatment, that keeps algae from growing on your roof. You might also want to consider shingles that have a reflective coating applied at the factory that keeps your home cooler. The coating reflects the sun so there is less solar warming of your home in the summer, and that might help control your power bill.
4. Appearance Of The Roofing
Asphalt shingles are a common type of residential roofing, but all shingle roofs don't look the same. Besides a difference in color, shingles can take on different shapes and looks. Some higher-grade shingles can look like wood shakes or slate tiles. If you want a more upscale roof to match your luxury home, you might want higher-grade shingles that are also higher quality and have longer lives due to their durability.
For more information on residential roofing, contact a roofing contractor in your area.
