3 Things You Didn’t Know About Roofing Shingles
Since roofing shingles are the most popular type of material for the roof, most people assume they know what shingles are all about. That may have been true 50 years ago, but shingles have come a long way since then. Take a closer look at your options when it’s time for a new roof.
They’re Not Just Rectangular
When you think about shingles, you have a pretty good idea of what the finished product is going to look like. Sure, there might be variations in color or thickness, but you imagine neat rows of rectangular shingles. This doesn’t have to be the case. If you’re looking for a unique look for your home, you’ll be happy to learn that shingles come in a variety of shapes, including diamond and curved shapes.
There’s More Than Asphalt
Asphalt shingles are what you think about when someone says “shingles,” but there are more choices these days. For instance, metal shingles will give your home a more traditional look, but they’ll last twice as long as traditional shingles. Shingles can also be made from wood — often called “shakes” — stone, or clay.
They Can Prevent Moss and Algae Growth
If you’ve ever had black streaks on your roof, you may be surprised to learn that this comes from algae growth, not dirt. Algae and moss grow on roofs that remain damp, usually when there are trees blocking the path of the sun. If you don’t want to think about cutting down the trees, you could get shingles that have small copper granules embedded in the asphalt. These prevent moss and algae growth.
