What Are Roof Shingles?

If you are a new homeowner in an area that regularly experiences extreme weather, you probably have some questions and concerns regarding the stability of your roof. After all, the roof is what keeps you and your family safe and dry. One term you’re likely familiar with is roof shingles.   

Roofing Shingles are a type of roof covering consisting of individual overlapping elements. They are commonly made from asphalt, composite, and other roofing materials. They are flat, rectangular shaped, and laid from the bottom edge of the roof up.  

While there are a variety of roofing shingle materials, many are made of asphalt, wood, or slate.  

Asphalt Shingles  

Asphalt shingles are the most common type of roofing shingles found in the U.S. These are easy to install, reasonably priced, and come in numerous styles and colors. Moreover, they are designed to protect homes through all sorts of weather for an extended period.  

This type of shingle has many benefits. Asphalt roofing shingles can be treated to resist algae growth, protect homeowners from hail damage, make homes cooler, and are fire resistant.  

Wood Shingles 

Wood shingles are identically shaped shingles made from wood. The downside to wood shingles is that they are prone to rot and mold if not maintained properly. However, their unique appearance makes them a popular choice amongst many homeowners.  

Slate Tile 

Slate tile is made from metamorphic rock. One disadvantage of slate tiles is that they have a weak bond between layers, and it is usually split along the planes. Also, the installation process for slate tiles is complex since it requires a solid mortar surface and a skilled hand.  

How Long Does a Shingle Roof Last? 

The longevity of shingled roofs depends on the material and how well the roof is maintained. It should also be noted that roof shingles may degrade at a faster rate and repel more water than wall shingles.  

Asphalt shingles last 20 to 60 years. Wood shingles can last between 15 and 50 years.  Roofs made from slate can last for up to 50 years.  

Can Roof Shingles Be Recycled?  

Recycling roof shingles is encouraged. Recycling roof shingles reduces the amount of construction waste in landfills. In addition, old materials used to make roof shingles can be reused to create new things like asphalt roadways.   

If you want to recycle old roof shingles, don’t put them in the recycling bin. Find a roofing contractor or recycling facility that will accept them.  

A Local Roof Contractor Near You  

ABC Roofing Company is committed to helping Cincinnati residents with all their roofing needs. We are known to locals for our fair pricing, quality work, and excellent customer service.  

If you have any questions regarding your roof, we are here to help. Call our emergency line day or night and one of our roofing professionals will be more than happy to assist. We are also available for insurance claim inquiries and will make sure repairs go smoothly and are handled as soon as possible.  

Contact us for a free estimate or to discuss any other of your roofing needs.