Standard Shingles VS. Architectural Shingles: Is It More Than Just Appearance?
Roofing is a major investment for your home. Your roof acts as a complete weather barrier and protects your home or business from the harsh rays of the sun, torrential rain, winter snow storms all while acting as an insulating layer as well to help control the temperature inside. Roofs can last between 20 and 50 years depending on the quality of shingles that are used.
All asphalt shingles are not equal. In fact, there are different styles and compositions that can determine not only how your roof is going to look but also how long your roof will last and stand up to mother nature. There are two main types of asphalt shingles to consider, architectural and standard asphalt shingles installed for newer roofs. While they each have their own pros and cons it’s important to understand these differences so you know what type of roof would be best for your home.
Standard Shingles
Regular asphalt shingles typically have two rows of shingles and a wider, hidden seam. Roofers will usually install these shingles side by side in an overlapping pattern to ensure that the seams don’t face upwards. Regular asphalt shingles are less expensive because they only require standard installation equipment. On average, the standard shingle comes with a warranty of 20, 25, or 30 years and can handle wind gusts of up to 60 mph.
Architectural Shingles
Architectural shingles are steeper than regular shingles and are installed with a wide, exposed seam. These seams not only look beautiful but also help to block out natural light. This style of shingle is usually more expensive than regular asphalt shingles because they require special handling and installation equipment. Architectural shingles will also typically last longer than standard asphalt shingles have minimum warranties of 30 years and withstand wind gusts of up to 130mph
While there are a variety of factors to consider when having a new roof installed, whatever your choices may be it is important to have your roof installed by a professional roofing company. Not only can you ensure the job is done on time but you can rest easier at night knowing that your roof has a warranty protecting your home against whatever may go wrong.
For more information about how this difference could affect your home, please call JCM Roofing at (716) 249-0979 or visit our contact page to schedule your free, no obligation estimate.