Shingle Roof in Portland

Shingles on a roof act as a protective barrier keeping your residence insulated while possibly increasing the overall value of your home. Having a clear idea of roof shingle types can help you find an effective and affordable option to cover your house. Roofing contractors in Portland can discuss the various selections available to you.

A Few Kinds of Shingles for Your Roof

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most popular because they are so affordable. They come in a variety of colors, styles, and sizes from which to choose. Several meet the standards set forth by Energy Star, a federal program initiated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that provides for consumer products and buildings that meet certain criteria for energy efficiency. When your residence meets those standard, the result is less money being spent on energy bills.

But asphalt shingles have their drawbacks just as they have their benefits. Their primary disadvantage is that they don’t last very long (compared to other types of shingles) in climates where the temperature fluctuates in a relatively short period of time. Under such circumstances, the shingles have been known to warp or crack. Even in regions with mild temperatures, asphalt shingles, unlike fiberglass or stone shingles, can sustain damage because they are made from weaker materials. Another drawback is that they are best used on roofs that have a steep slope.

Fiberglass Shingles

As the name implies, these shingles are constructed with a fiberglass base. Multiple layers are overlain and bound with an adhesive. The bound material is then coated with asphalt that’s made with different types of mineral fillers to create a waterproof seal.

Fiberglass shingles are:

  • Durable
  • Fire-resistant
  • Lightweight
  • Accompanied by a longer warranty
  • Resistant to rays from the sun
  • More expensive than asphalt shingles, but not as costly as other materials

Organic Shingles

Organic shingles are another option. They were originally created from recycled cardboard, wood chips, paper and rags. Though inexpensive, organic shingles are not very popular because they tend to become saturated and accumulate moisture. This can lead to a myriad of issues particularly in regions that have freezing temperatures or high levels of humidity. The combination of saturation and moisture causes the shingles to degrade prematurely and deteriorate well before their life expectancy of 20 years. Several homeowners had to replace organic shingles with fiberglass substitutes due to this concern.

Three-Tab Shingles

Another roof shingle type are three-tab shingles. Roofing contractors in Portland designate a shingle as “three-tab” because it consists of three individual tabs that are a foot wide. Though they are inexpensive and thin, they will still last 20 to 30 years if maintained properly. Three-tab shingles are a product that’s asphalt based and like other shingles, work by casting water to the adjacent shingle below.

Architectural Shingles

With architectural shingles, a 30-year warranty from the manufacturer is standard, but many now come with a lifetime warranty. They are two strips of asphalt shingle that have been fastened together to resemble the look of wood shake roofs. Advantages to using architectural shingles are:

  • A longer warranty from the manufacturer
  • Improved curb appeal
  • High wind resistance
  • Protection against black algae

Wood Shingles

The cost of wood shingles is between reasonably priced asphalt shingles and tile shingles which are more expensive. They are the most environmentally friendly type of shingle and able to last up to 50 years. Available in redwood or cedar, not only are they durable, but energy efficient as well.

The greatest drawback to wood shingles is that they are the most likely to catch fire among all other shingle materials. There is also the obligatory requirement to take the necessary precautions so your roof doesn’t succumb to mold or termites.

Common repairs to wood shingles are the result of warping or cracking. Some may become broken or missing. In many instances, the shingle(s) will have to be replaced because they can’t be repaired. Resealing the shingles is on a case by case basis.

Regardless of the type of shingle or material you choose, contact roofing contractors in Portland to ensure the installation is done by reputable professionals.