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Roofing 101: New Shingles And What To Look For

Spring is an ideal time for homeowners to schedule a roof replacement. You’ll beat storm season, and since early spring isn’t as busy for most roofers, you’ll have a better chance of scheduling the date you want. While you will work closely with your roofing contractors in Alpharetta, you’ll still decide which shingles you want them to use for the project. Before you take the next steps toward kicking off your roofing job, learn what to look for when selecting shingles.

Different Types of Shingles

When you start narrowing down your choices for roofing materials, you’ll notice asphalt shingles are the industry standard. They’re also the most popular for homeowners. Asphalt shingles are cost-effective, durable, attractive, and come with excellent options for warranties. These shingles come in two types. You can go with regular asphalt, also called 3-tab shingles, or you can choose laminate or architectural shingles. Many homeowners like laminate shingles because they add architectural detail to a roof. Manufacturers build laminate shingles with a more substantial base mat and more layers than regular asphalt shingles.

Making the Cut

Standard asphalt shingles come in one size and shape. Each shingle measures 12 inches across and has three tabs. They give your roof a flat, uniform appearance. Laminate shingles come in a range of shapes and sizes. Unlike 3-tab shingles, they come in individual units, which means your roofing contractor can create different designs and patterns on the roof. If you like the look of slate or cedar shakes, you can buy laminate shingles that mimic those materials.

How Long Do Shingles Last?

Whether you’re making a roof repair or you’ve decided to do a total roof replacement, you want to use shingles with the greatest longevity. The climate where you live plays a significant role in the life span of your shingles. In Georgia, peak thunderstorm season runs from March through May. While the state doesn’t get as much hail during those storms as some other states, hail can damage your roof. Georgia residents also get a good amount of high sun. The potential for hail and sun exposure means your shingles will last longer if you choose an impact-resistant shingle in a cool, reflective color.

Make Sure You Understand Warranties

When your contractor puts together your roofing estimate, they should talk with you about the warranty. Warranties can seem confusing because there are several, and each one serves a different purpose. All manufacturers warranty their shingles against defects. Shingle warranties can last anywhere from 20 to 50 years. With this type of warranty, the manufacturer promises to repair or replace defective shingles. Your contractor also offers a workmanship warranty, which usually covers installation errors for up to 10 years. It’s not uncommon for a homeowner to choose a shingle based on its warranty. You may also be able to upgrade a warranty. Read your warranties thoroughly as they come with lots of fine print.

Which Brand Is Best?

Choosing the right shingle starts with determining what you expect from your shingle roof in Alpharetta. Think about how long you plan to stay in the home. If you’re there to stay, ask your contractor to help you select a brand that helps ensure you won’t need to make roof leak repairs anytime soon. With nearly 30 years in the roofing industry, Superior Roofing Company of Georgia can help you choose the brand that will best serve your needs. Contact us today and schedule a free roofing estimate!

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