Many people are unaware of what slate roof shingles are or what their benefits are. Roofing shingles are curved or flat tiles that overlap in a manner than transfers water and other materials off of a roof that is pitched.
In some cases, the water may be channeled off of the roof via interlocked curved tiles, and roof shingles are generally installed in a manner that ensures that each joint or seam is overlapped by a shingle that is installed further up the roof.
Here, we will discuss the different types of roofing shingles that are available for purchase on the market, as well as why you may want to consider installing slate roof shingles, or its derivatives, for your new or existing home.
Common Types of Roof Shingles
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are, as the name implies, shingles that are made with asphalt. Asphalt shingles are one of the most affordable types of shingles available on the market and so unsurprisingly are one of the most popular types of shingles in the industry.
It should also be noted that you can purchase asphalt shingles that are more durable, such as architectural roof shingles, or you can opt for the more commonly purchased 3-tab shingles if you would prefer.
Slate Roof Shingles
Slate roof shingles are highly fireproof, as well as very durable and eco-friendly. Some of the nation’s oldest structures still carry the slate roofs that were originally installed on them almost a hundred years ago.
Photo by Gelotte Hommas Drivdahl Architecture
On average, you can expect slate roof shingles that are properly installed to last between 80 and 100 years, and they boast some of the best damage resistant properties, as well as water-resistant properties, in the industry.
If you live in a cold part of the country, then we would recommend that you choose slate roof shingles for your home because of their ability to withstand arctic-level temperatures for many years, without breaking the bank.
Wood Shingles
Wood shingles are another option. They last between ten and fifty years, depending on the type of wood installed, and how it is treated before the installation process. In addition, because wood shingles are made of wood, they are considered one of the most environmentally friendly shingles on the market.
Photo by Cynthia Hayes Interior Design
Less Common Types of Shingles
Those looking for a shingle type that is not only easy to install but also very lightweight may want to try metal roof shingles. Not only are metal shingles lightweight and easy to install but they are also economical, especially if they are fabricated using a low-galvanized metal.
Photo by TruexCullins Architecture + Interior Design
Finally, solar shingles are also growing in popularity, because they are considered by many experts to be one of the most forward-thinking types of roofing shingles that you can affix to your property. Thanks to their modern and state of the art properties, you can use solar shingles to generate electricity so that you can power your roof using solar energy.
Benefits of Roof Shingles
It should be noted that roofing shingles are currently the most popular roofing material used by roofers in Canada. This is partly thanks to the plethora of incredible benefits that roofing shingles provide, and they are often the most popular choice for multi-family establishments as well as residential properties. Below, are just some of the benefits of opting for roofing shingles for your home.
They’re Cost-Efficient
First and foremost, roof shingles are cost-efficient, which is the main reason to opt for roof shingles. Also, we would recommend that you familiarize yourself with the services of a licensed, bonded, and insured roofing contractor in the area that has a proven track record of success.
You Have a Lot of Options
Roof shingles give you a wide array of options. You can choose from literally thousands of different shapes, finishes, colours, and patterns, so you can rest assured that you will find a type that will perfectly complement your home. The number of different texture options will also allow you to pick an option that can look like a material that you desire, such as tile, slate, or shake.
Photo by Old Hampshire Designs Inc
They’re Low Maintenance
In terms of maintenance, there is usually very little to no maintenance work involved, especially if they were installed using quality materials and by a competent and professional contractor. In fact, you can walk over roofing shingles without damaging the material. We wouldn’t advise you do this, though!
Shingles are very durable and should be your first choice for your roof tiling needs. In terms of lifespan, they may vary from as little as a decade to nearly a century. Consult with your contractor to find the best choice for your home and your budget.
They’re Easy to Install
Finally, the installation process is straightforward, quick, and straightforward. You should be able to replace or fit a roof with bitumen shingles without any issues, provided you use the correct materials and read the instructions very carefully.
Most experts consider roof shingles to be the easiest material to install for roofs, so the labour costs that are incurred from a roof shingle installation job will generally be much lower than the costs incurred from installing other roofing materials.
To learn more about the benefits of roof shingles, call North Country Slate at 866-341-2579 or contact us here.
Author Bio
Monica Benoit is a blogger in Toronto. She is currently working as an Outreach Coordinator for North Country Slate. She graduated with honours from the University of British Columbia with a dual degree in Business Administration and Creative Writing.