If you’re building a new home or ready to replace the roof on your current home, you know you’re going to need some shingles. That much is clear. But what isn’t so clear is just how to choose the right shingles for your new roof.
There are many options, and you want to make the right choice, so your home is protected from heat, rain, hail, snow, or whatever the southeastern weather patterns throw your way (including those tropical storms and hurricanes common in our area of the country).
Don’t worry — help is here! By the end of this article, you’ll be able to move forward with confidence as you talk with roofers, secure quotes, and select shingles for your home. You’ll be ready to take the next step with a shingle that’s right for your budget, your style, and your expectations for durability.
3 Steps for Choosing Shingles for Your Home
1. Know your cost options.
The average cost to replace a roof can vary based on the size and pitch of your roof, your location, and the materials you choose. According to HomeGuide, the average cost to replace a roof is $7,211, with most homeowners spending between $4,707 and $10,460. Keep in mind that quote includes removal of the old roof, materials, and labor.
If you want to keep your roofing costs on the lower end of that range, choose quality materials with a modest price tag — asphalt shingles and metal roofing are the most popular and affordable options.
2. Identify your style and color preferences.
Depending on your home’s style and the color of the roofing shingles you choose, you can create a warm, welcoming atmosphere or make a bold, trendy statement. Here are a few tips to help you think through which might be right for you:
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A general guideline to follow when picking shingles? Choose a shingle that is darker than your home’s exterior. Darker shingles will ground and balance your home’s curb appeal, whereas lighter shingles (or shingles that match your home’s exterior) can cause your home to lack visual depth and seem monotonous and boring.
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The higher the pitch of your roof, the more you’ll see the shingles from the street. In fact, roofing can account for as much as 40% of a home’s visual exterior. When selecting shingles, choose a style and color that will draw the eye upward toward features like dormers and gables.
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You don’t want your home to be the neighborhood eyesore (especially if you ever decide to sell), so choose a shingle that blends in well with your neighborhood, landscaping, and surroundings.
The color and style of shingles you choose have the potential to make a great first impression, enhancing your home’s curb appeal and boosting its value. Take your time looking at photos online and existing homes around you to make an informed choice.
Bonus tip: Your roofer should have shingle samples you can touch, see, and test against your home’s exterior. Ask to see several in a range of colors and styles when making your decision.
3. Think about durability and maintenance.
Your roof is an investment — and like any product you research and purchase for your house, you want it to last. Choosing shingles with proven, long-lasting durability is one way to ensure your roof will protect your home and family for many years to come.
Since asphalt shingles are the most common type of roofing material, let’s briefly look at the benefits of an asphalt-shingled roof:
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Asphalt shingles coupled with professional installation should give your roof at least twenty years of protection against the elements and UV radiation.
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Asphalt shingles come in various colors and styles that can give a visual look of smoothness (3-tab asphalt shingles) or texture (architectural or laminated shingles).
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Asphalt shingles require virtually zero maintenance from homeowners.
Take the next step towards your new roof
Choosing the right shingles for your home is just one step towards getting a new roof. If you have an idea of what you’re looking for or would like more guidance, I’d love to help.
Give me, Brad, a call at (912) 454-1002 or send me an email at brad@dbmroofing.com. I look forward to hearing from you.
