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Are Asphalt Shingles the Only Choice for Shingling a Roof?
from:When it comes to replacing or building a roof shingling a roof is one of the least expensive methods of installation for most homes. Many people feel that inexpensive and roofing do not belong in the same sentence, much less the same paragraph though shingling with asphalt shingles is one of the least expensive options for those who need a new or replacement roof.
It pays though to look at the long haul rather than simply paying attention to the initial roofing job. If you plan to live in your home longer than the warranty on your shingles would last, you might want to consider something a little sturdier than traditional asphalt shingles. These other shingle options such as slate, wood shingles, metal shingles, and tile each bring a different type of beauty to the table but also an added layer of durability over what is generally offered by asphalt shingles.
They all last longer with some lasting beyond the generally anticipated lifespan of any modern roof. If you are at all concerned about the state of the environment, shingling a roof with one of these other materials can be a huge benefit to your cause. There are many reasons why but the first to consider is that the less you are replacing a roof, the less waste you are creating. The benefits do not end here though. Wood tiles offer an added layer of insulation that will help keep warm air inside during the months of winter and cool air inside the home during those dog days of summer. This leads to the consumption of less energy (which also saves on your energy bills) and the release of less pollution as a result of the diminished need for power.
Metal roofs provide an added environmental benefit in that they can be placed over existing roofs. This means that there is very little waste when these roofs are installed. But the bonus doesn't end there. Years from now, fifty or so to be exact, when the time comes to replace that metal roof, the metal that was used on the roof is completely recyclable. No landfill filling required as a result of your metal roof.
Slate roofs are known to outlast even metal roofs and individual shingles can be replaced as needed in order to avoid the expense and waste of replacing an entire roof in one fell swoop. What this means for you is that you will spend a lot more up front but will not be likely to need to replace this particular roof anytime within your lifetime.
The bottom line is this: be prepared to explore all of your options for shingling a roof before you decide that asphalt is the best option.
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