Shingle Roofing

From nearly the beginning of time, man has been doing whatever it takes to keep out the elements, be it using animal skins or the bark of a tree, all while trying to keep safe and warm within the home.

Today's protections of home and hearth, such as roofing materials, have come a long way in tried and proven techniques and technology. Some materials have remained unchanged for centuries, as they are the tried and true, such as slate and wood shakes. Others, such as asphalt/fiberglass composites, lightweight concrete, and coated metal tiles are a part of technological revolutions. Each has its own differences in durability, appearance, cost, and ease of application; but they do the job they were meant to do and that is to keep the weather out and comfort in.

Roofing is actually more than just shingles or tiles; it is a complete system that includes framing, sheathing, underlayment, flashing, and the finishing touches of shingles or tiles.

Consider the following types of shingles:

Wood

Most wood shingles roofs are made from Western Red Cedar because of its durability and resistance to pest damage. Preservative treated pine and similar wood species are also used. Real cedar is a perennial that has a natural, rustic appearance; all wood types give a roof a very natural appearance and blend well with the environment. Wood shingles are smooth while shakes are more rustic and rough hewn. Available in varying lengths and random widths, the life expectancy for most wood shingles is 15 to 25 years.

The downside to wood shingles is that they require pressure treatment to become fire retardant and in some fire prone areas, are forbidden for use. In more humid climates, wood shingles are treated with a fungicide and preservatives, as they are susceptible if untreated.

Asphalt

Asphalt shingles make up the majority of use in roofing products today and come with a core of either organic felt (composition) or fiberglass materials, fiberglass being the more preferred in the market at this time. The core is saturated in asphalt, a petroleum product, and then coated with colored mineral granules to fit the style and decor of a home. Asphalt shingles do require some replacement in high wind areas. They are also affected by sun and weather wear (but can be pretreated for more protection), and are expected to last about 25 years. Because of their content, they are fire resistant.

Metal

Metal shingles can be made to resemble wood shakes, tile, and slate. Most are painted or coated steel or aluminum shingles that are pressed or formed into realistic shapes and are amazingly convincing in their appearance. To reduce any tell-tale sheen, they are texture layered and given a granulated stone topcoat. The tile and slate look-a-likes are very difficult to distinguish from the real thing after installation. Metal shingles are fast approaching the most popular status in roofing products today, as they are maintenance free and do the complete job of keeping the weather out and comfort in, thus saving on energy costs. They are also environment friendly with great curb appeal.

Rubber

These shingles offer a great alternative to traditional roofing types as homeowners become more environmentally conscience. Their prices are great when compared to standard roofing materials, due to the use of newer technologies by recycling plastic bags, rubber tires, and other similar materials. Rubber shingles look like the real traditional shingles they represent and are lighter, cheaper, and carry a Class A fire rating. They hold up to the weather, withstanding winds of 80 mph. They're also excellent as insulators, and though they are relatively new to the industry, they are given a 30 – 50 year warranty. They require fewer repairs or replacements compared to asphalt, but are much more expensive than asphalt. Consider this type of shingle in your next roofing project, and you will be pleasantly surprised.

Why should you choose shingle roofing? Overall, shingles...

  • Perform well in extreme temperatures
  • Require little or no maintenance
  • Are easily repaired if damaged
  • Are the easiest of roofing materials to install
  • Come in a wide variety of styles, design, and colors

The installation of an entire roof system requires proper design, quality materials, and quality installation. Be sure to contact a professional contractor to help you keep the elements out and the warmth and comfort in.

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metal roofing / asphalt roofing / Wood Roofing / Cement Roofing / Rubber Roofing / Fiberglass Roofing / Copper Roofing / Aluminum Roofing / Composite Roofing / Slate Roofing / Tile Roofing / Shingle Roofing / Bamboo Roofing

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Here is what has been said about our Roofing and Gutters Contractors:

We the homeowners of Grenache Way would like to express our appreciation of the way in which you and your crew performed the roofing job on our set of units. The workers were quick, clean and friendly. The professional way in which the work was performed can be seen in how good the end result looks. The intrusion on the homeowners' daily lives was kept to a minimum because of this professional performance of the work. Thank you!

"It has truly been refreshing to deal with someone who exercises a strong work ethic. Your dealings with me have been forthright; you have followed through with all that you promised. As I observed earlier, you are the "hero of the neighborhood." We are impressed with your consistent, conscientious work and your affable manner." - A. Butler