What Sort of Shingles Are Right for Georgia?
While shingle choices may not be the dominant subject of discussion in your Georgia neighborhood at the moment, just wait. The team at Fowler Homes has noticed: when one homeowner needs to or decides to replace a roof, he or she takes a good look around the neighborhood for ideas.
While many people want to fit in, others may want to make a statement. So how do you balance the two objectives? Perhaps start by considering the five types of shingles that are most common in Georgia, which are popular thanks to their ability to withstand the widely varying weather conditions we face.
If you are installing a new roof in Canton or replacing your current one, contact us online now!
Asphalt Shingles
Standout benefits: Economical, durable and available in a wide variety of colors, asphalt fiberglass shingles win most Georgia popularity contests. They come in two varieties: laminated (also called dimensional or architectural), which are layered and resemble slate or wood shakes, and three-tab, which are made in a single layer.
Drawback: Asphalt shingles are lightweight and so don’t always withstand strong winds – a fact that is somewhat negated by their affordability. Homes protected by valleys or forested areas usually fare better with asphalt shingles.
Clay Shingles
Standout benefits: Reminiscent of Italian and Spanish villas, clay roofs can be tailored to match the design elements of a home. They can be ordered in a flat design, so they overlap and interlock on a roof. They can be made in a barrel style and laid in half-circles or vertical rows. Or they can be made in the form of S-tiles to overlap across a roof. Clay tiles take a tough stance against Georgia winds and won’t rot during humid summers.
Drawback: Clay shingles are more likely to become damaged in hail storms.
Metal Shingles
Standout benefits: Available in alloy strips, aluminum, copper and steel, metal shingles are available in various shapes and colors. They are highly resistant to cracks, rot, rust, stains, and streaks. They do not absorb water like other roofing materials; in fact, they repel it. Some types have also passed wind tests with flying colors, standing up well against 200 MPH gusts. Contrary to what you might think, metal shingles reflect the sun instead of absorbing it, which helps keep air conditioning costs in check during hot Georgia summers.
Drawbacks: Metal shingles can be noisy during a rain storm. Although they can be dented by hail, their textured surface can conceal some imperfections.
Slate Shingles
Standout benefits: Sleek and elegant, slate shingles are the most expensive shingle option, but they can last 75 years or more. The cost has prompted many homeowners to turn to slate composites that resemble the real thing. Made of asphalt, plastic or rubber, these composites weigh less, too, and put less stress on a roof.
Drawbacks: Real slate can be extremely slippery (another reason to leave walking on a roof to the professional!). Slate also can be difficult to install, which is why only the most skilled and experienced contractor in Georgia should be entrusted to install it. Meanwhile, imitation slate can crack and fade over time.
Wood Shingles
Standout benefits: Usually made of cedar, pine, or redwood, wood shingles are particularly well suited to country-style or historic homes. They typically stand out as a roofing choice; wood shingles are just natural attention-getters. Shakes are split from a log to create a rough texture, while shingles are sawed to produce a smoother surface.
Drawbacks: Wood shingles can be costly and require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best.
Schedule Roofing Installation in Canton, GA
The next time you hear that familiar question—What kind of shingles should I install on my home?—you’ll have more information at your disposal. But just wait until you call and make an appointment for a consultation with Fowler Homes. We’ll show you samples of these shingles so that you can make the best decision for your home to protect you and your family for many years to come.
Contact us online now for roof installation or replacement services in the Canton area!