blog detail

How to Choose Shingles for Your Home

Updated
October 17, 2017
Author
Amanda Curry
Read Time
2 minutes

If you’re wondering how to choose shingles for your home, it may be confusing at first. There are many types of roofing, and knowing what roofing installation entails is another story altogether. For starters, take these 5 simples points into consideration before you make your decision:

  1. Match the current style of your home
  2. Keep climate in mind
  3. Colour is key
  4. Budget wisely
  5. Make a statement

Read on to learn even more about how to choose shingles for your home!

1. Style

The style of your roof should be dependent on the overall architectural design of your home. A modern home will look best with clean roof lines seen with asphalt shingles, while the more intricate clay shingle designs may complement a vintage-style home much better. Every home is different, so be sure to consider the shape of the shingle compared to the unique style of your home before making your final decision.

2. Climate

Different types of shingles hold up differently based on the regional climate. Some hold up better in extreme temperatures – such as metal roofing – while others fare well in colder climates – such as tile shingles. Another thing to take into consideration is whether your area regularly experiences droughts, as wooden shingles are more prone to catching fire than other types of shingles. Your local insurance agent may have recommendations based on your region’s climate, and the risks of each type of shingle, so be sure to use them as a resource as well!

3. Colour

Shingles not only come in many different shapes, but they also come in a wide variety of colours. It’s a good idea to match not just the colour of your home, but that of the surrounding homes as well. It’s never a good idea to choose a colour of shingle that will make your home stand out like a sore thumb in your neighborhood.

Different types of shingles

4. Budget

While you may be drawn to the most luxurious-looking shingle on the market, it, unfortunately may come with a price tag you’ll have difficulty affording. The cost of shingles varies based upon the type of shingle you choose. So, carefully consider the cost of materials, professional roofing installation, and long-term upkeep to determine which type is, realistically, the best choice for you. The longevity of the roofing should also play a factor in your decision, as some types of shingles need to be replaced more often than others, thus costing more in the long run. Planning ahead could save you thousands of dollars.

5. Statement

Finally, consider whether you’d like to make a statement with your roof. Your shingles can either highlight or take the focus off of your roofline, so choose between all the different types of roofing wisely. For instance, wooden shake shingles can give your home a more dramatic look, while simple asphalt shingles can downplay certain features.

Armed with these five most important things to consider when choosing from the different types of roofing, you’re ready to make the best decision for your home. And, once your roofing installation is finished, learn how LeafFilter can help protect your roof for years to come.