Way Up on the Roof

While there are many types of residential roofs available, asphalt shingle roofing is extremely popular for many reasons. Asphalt shingles are economical and attractive, and these shingles protect your home from the outside elements very well. If you plan to add an asphalt shingle roof to your home, then you may be surprised at all of the shingle options you have and wonder just how to choose the perfect shingles for your home. 

Read on to learn three tips for choosing asphalt shingles that meet your family's needs best. 

1. Choose Your Ideal Asphalt Shingle Style

One important decision you will make when choosing your new asphalt shingles is whether you would like classic three-tab shingles or architectural shingles. 

Three-tab shingles are thinner than architectural shingles and have an expected lifespan of about 20 years or longer when they are well maintained. Architectural shingles are made up of two traditional asphalt shingles laminated together, which increases their durability and lifespan. In fact, architectural shingles typically stay in great shape for 30 years or longer. 

The right asphalt shingle style for your home depends on how often you would like to replace your shingles and whether you prefer the appearance of relatively flat three-tab shingles or architectural shingles that project slightly from your roof. 

2. Consider Algae-Resistant Shingles

If your current roof developed algae stains over the years or you notice algae stains on neighbors' roofs, then you should consider having algae-resistant asphalt shingles installed. Algae stains typically appear as black streaks or stains on the roof that are difficult or impossible to remove without damaging the roof itself. Along with making a roof appear unsightly, algae can also consume the limestone that is a component of many asphalt shingles today, leading to weakening of the shingles over time. 

Algae-resistant asphalt shingles are infused with copper particles that kill algae spores before they can begin flourishing on your roof. 

If you choose shingles that are not infused with copper particles, consider installing copper or zinc flashing along with your traditional asphalt shingles to help keep algae at bay. 

3. Select Your Shingle Color Wisely

Both three-tab and architectural shingles come in many colors. Before you choose your shingle color based on appearance alone, keep in mind that dark-colored roof materials tend to absorb more of the sun's heat than light-colored shingles. While all modern asphalt shingles are equipped with granules that reflect the sun's UV rays, choosing a lighter shingle color can help ensure your roof reflects as much of the sun's heat as possible during the summer to keep your home cooler naturally. 

If you plan to have an asphalt shingle roof on your home, then keep these three tips in mind when choosing the shingles that will work best for your home and family's needs.