Roof shingles are individual roof tiles that overlap one another. They are a popular choice for buildings, as they are high-quality, quick to install, durable and cost-effective. There are different types of shingles to choose from. Factors to consider when choosing the type of shingles are cost, ease of installation, colour, and overall aesthetic of the building. In this article, we will delve into the different shingle options.

Wood Shingles

Wood shingles are made of real cedar wood. They are durable and can last for at least 30 years, sometimes longer. It does not require a complicated process to install wood shingles, however, due to them being heavier than felt shingles, the process is a bit more difficult. Looks wise, wood shingles suit modern, rustic or classic buildings. They also complement buildings like garden offices or large garages. The benefit of cedar shingles is that they are not limited to roofs; they can be used to create a feature wall inside of a house, or to cover the whole building. The colour of these shingles can really make a building stand out. These shingles can be used for buildings in hot and cold environments.

Felt Shingles

Felt shingles, including bitumen shingles, are usually the most cost-effective option of roof shingles. With correct maintenance, their lifespan can be around 25 years. These shingles are very popular due to how easy they are to install. They are generally suitable for buildings with sloped roofs, such as garden houses and sheds. Felt shingles come in a range of shapes. You can choose from hexagonal or square (also referred to as 3-tab). Square shingles are usually chosen for a more minimalist look, whilst hexagonal tiles can be more eye-catching. There are also a range of colours to choose from, making it easy to find something that fits the aesthetic of the building.

Metal Shingles

Metal shingles provide excellent quality to roofs; however, the price is higher than other types of roof shingles. They can last an extremely long time, sometimes up to 70 years. Installation is simple and straightforward. You can find them in a variety of stylish colours and shapes. They are a good choice for buildings that cannot support the weight of heavier types of roof shingles, as they are lightweight. A benefit of metal roof tiles is that they can be used on flat roofs or roofs with low slopes.

Clay Tiles

Clay tiles add a decorative look to homes and are available in a range of shapes and styles. They can be made in different colours, although terra-cotta is rather popular. They are environmentally friendly and help to regulate the temperature of a building. Another benefit is that they have a lifespan of around 50 years. Although a beautiful choice, they are usually more expensive than other roofing options.

Concrete Tiles

Concrete tiles are excellent at providing insulation to buildings. They also provide sound-proofing benefits. However, they can be less environmentally friendly than some of the other roofing options. They are easy to install and replace. Another factor that may be considered is that they are an affordable option. The life expectancy is around 40 years.

Slate Tiles

Slate tiles come from the natural slate stone. They are usually available in shades of blues or greys. They are very heavy, and are super resistant to extreme weather conditions, rot, and insects. They can be expensive, but it may be worth considering, as they can last for around 100 years. They can add elegance to homes.

In conclusion, there are several roofing options to choose from, depending on the look you are going for. You should also consider things like material, lifespan, cost, and durability.

Click here to view the WonderBuilds range of bitumen felt shingles.