Roof shingles can be a very effective roofing material. They can be made from a variety of materials including slate, ceramic tile, clay and metal shingles. They are traditionally used on single stories of homes, whereas other types of roofing such as metal roofing or asphalt shingles may be more appropriate for multi-story buildings. They can also be used to protect the roof of barns and other outdoor structures. But what are the benefits of roof shingles?
Roof shingles provide several distinct advantages. They are the most efficient kind of roofing for all climates. They are also environmentally friendly and long-lasting, and easy to maintain. Roof shingles can also be installed to create an aesthetically pleasing roof. And although shingle roofing is the cheapest form of roofing, they are also the most susceptible to damage, and therefore should be taken care of accordingly.
The benefits of shingle roofing are clear when you consider the energy savings they produce. Since roof shingles consist of numerous small cells containing air bubbles, they increase the air permeability of the roof. As a result, heat that naturally escapes through small gaps in the roof shingles is lost through the lower levels of the building, and ultimately the roof itself.
When compared to asphalt shingle roofing, clay tiles appear to have a slightly lower impact on the building’s energy efficiency. Clay tiles, however, are a poor choice for roofs over soil that experiences high compaction. Clay tiles are susceptible to cracking under pressure from rain, and may also degrade with time. Furthermore, clay tiles do not provide as much protection against ultraviolet radiation as slate or tile roofs do. Lastly, they are currently not considered to be any more fire resistant than asphalt shingle roofing.
A recent trend in alternative roofing materials has been the growth of composite roof shingles. These shingles, made from recycled paperboard and petroleum products, resemble the appearance of shingle roofing but are stronger and more durable. They are made by gluing felt-like materials to a metal backing, and may be applied in a wide variety of colors. Composite shingles, which tend to deteriorate less quickly than shingle roofing, can be applied to roofs over a variety of soils. This type of roofing is similar to conventional wood shingles, and is usually applied to insulated concrete slabs.
As you can see, asphalt shingle roofing remains a strong and popular choice for many homeowners. However, recent studies have shown that a variety of roofing materials available today provide a variety of benefits, including cost savings, ease of installation, fire resistance, and aesthetics. Whether you are considering shingle, clay tile, or other materials, you are likely to find a roofing solution that fits your needs and your budget.