If you’re planning to replace your home’s aging roof and you’ve been investigating the variety of shingles on the market, you know you’ve got a tough decision ahead to pick the one that’s going to work best for your home. Here are some key factors to weigh to help you make the best possible choice:
Cost Vs. Quality
Shingle roofing comes in different quality grades, ranging from standard three-tab shingles to thick, multi-layer laminates and high-end composite products. To decide on the ideal one for your needs, consider how long you plan to stay in your home, how a particular shingle might affect your home value, and of course, how much you’re budgeting for a new roof. As with any other product, you’ll find that better quality shingles are more expensive.
Shingle Brand
When it comes to choosing a brand of shingle, you might wonder if there’s one manufacturer that’s better than the rest. Picking a shingle made by a leading roofing manufacturer like GAF, Owens Corning or CertainTeed is always a safe bet, because these companies been in business for decades and have solid reputations for making quality products.
Profile and Color
To make your decision easier and avoid being overwhelmed by options, resist the temptation to start looking at profiles and colors until you’ve decided on a grade of shingle that fits your budget. Your personal taste is what ultimately dictates your choice of shingle design and hue, but you should consider your home’s architecture, the existing colors in other elements like the siding and trim, and whether you’re limited by any HOA rules or requirements.
Installation Quality
The skill and experience of the contractor who installs your new roof has a major impact on how your shingles perform and how long they last. An inept roofer can make critical installation errors like nailing the shingles haphazardly, not offsetting them adequately, or neglecting to install flashing, vent boots or drip edge. Any such mistakes can leave you with a badly leaking roof and facing another replacement.
Extended Warranty
Another factor that can influence your choice of shingle is the option of upgrading your warranty coverage. Leading manufacturers offer extended warranties on their higher-end shingles that are only available through hand-picked, certified contractors who’ve met the manufacturer’s strict quality standards.
For expert advice on the best shingle roofing options for your Des Moines home, contact us at VanWeelden Company.
