Howard Roofing is a locally owned and operated roofing company in Florida. If you’re a homeowner or business owner, understanding the basics of roof shingles can save you time, money, and unnecessary headaches. Whether you’re exploring options for a new roof or evaluating the condition of your current one, this guide will walk you through the essentials. Howard Roofing tells you everything you need to know about shingles throughout the Palm Coast of Florida. Our certified roofers offer the highest quality customer support and roofing services. We’ll help you choose the best type of shingles for your needs.
What Are Roof Shingles?
Roof shingles are flat, overlapping pieces of roofing material that form the outermost layer of your roof. They are a crucial protective barrier, shielding your home against weather elements such as rain, wind, and heat. Shingles also play a significant role in your home’s aesthetic appeal, coming in various styles, materials, and colors.
Common Types of Roof Shingles
Choosing the right shingles is key to durability, performance, and appearance. Some of the most common types of shingles include:
- Asphalt Shingles: Asphalt shingles are the traditional form of shingle. They’re easy to install, affordable, and suitable for most climates. They last about 15 to 30 years with proper maintenance.
- Wood Shingles: Wood shingles have a natural, rustic look that enhances architectural styles like Craftsman or Cape Cod homes. They’re perfect for homes in dry climates as they’re susceptible to mold in damp regions. They have a lifespan of about 20–25 years.
- Metal Shingles: Metal shingles are durable, lightweight, and energy-efficient. They’re the perfect choice for eco-conscious homeowners. Metal shingles can last about 40 to 70 years.
- Slate Shingles: Slate shingles are extremely durable, fire-resistant, and visually striking. Many high-end homes have slate shingles due to their beauty. Slate shingles can last 50 to 100 years.
- Clay and Tile Shingles: Clay and tile shingles are known for their unmatched durability and excellence in hot, sunny climates. They’re perfect for a Mediterranean or Spanish-style roof. You can expect these shingles to last over 50 years.
Signs You Need Roof Repairs
Your roof will show signs of damage when it needs repairs. The most common signs you need roof repairs include:
- Missing or Damaged Shingles: A few missing or cracked shingles can often be fixed without a full replacement.
- Leaky Roof: Water stains on your interior ceiling could signal small areas that need patching.
- Granule Loss: If you’ve noticed granules in your gutter, this common asphalt shingle problem needs to be addressed immediately.
When to Choose a Roof Replacement
Our skilled team does its best to repair your roof before determining that you need a roof replacement. We’ll explain your options in detail to make sure we are doing what’s best for your home. The most common reasons we recommend a roof replacement include:
- Extensive Damage: If more than 20–30% of your shingles are compromised, replacement may be more cost-effective.
- Age of Roof: Shingles have a finite lifespan. If your asphalt shingles are nearing 25 years old, a full roof replacement is worth considering.
- Structural Issues: Sagging roofs or longstanding leaks could mean deeper problems that only a new roof can address.
Request an Estimate for Roofing Services
Regardless of which shingle type you choose for your new roof installation or roof replacement, selecting the right local roofing contractor is crucial. Howard Roofing can help your roof look and feel its best. Our team works on all types of residential and commercial roofing systems. Reach out to us today to get a free quote on our roofing services.