Step 26 - Exterior - Shingles

Shingle

Putting The Roof Together

I never knew how important good shingles are. They is so much technology involved in shingles. Who would ever know? We went with combonation shingles. Really because it gave us the most bang for buck and it wasn't going to break the bank.

Things We Learned Along The Way

What Types Of Shingles Are Used On Homes?

One roofing material that is still being widely used today is shingles. Shingles are mostly individual, flat, rectangular slabs spread out neatly side by side in rows. They are installed from the bottom section of the roof up making sure that almost a third part of its bottom edge overlaps with the succeeding layer. The layering works as an excellent water resistant mechanism and as a protective coating for the roof.

Shingles serve as a major support system for the roofing of a house. It adds an aesthetic touch to its overall appearance and may function as a temperature regulator depending on the material used. Shingles make the roof last longer by acting as a shield to harmful elements such as fire, sleet, snow, rain, and other debris and prevent water and cold air seepage. Shingles are available in several materials. The following are listed below:

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are usually paired with fiberglass to form the so-called combination shingles. This is the most popular and cheapest type of shingle. They are strong, sturdy, and long lasting. Depending on the asphalt's thickness, it can stay on for a minimum of 20 to 30 years and withstand water and fire. They come in a range of colors to fit almost any house design.

Wood Shingles

Wood shingles are one of the oldest materials used in home construction. They have been the material of choice for America's earliest settlers since wood had been very abundant back then. They are lightweight, inexpensive, and easy to install. However, with the reinforcement of new fire standards, woods soon became obsolete.

Slate Shingles

Slate Shingles are mostly found in places with extreme cold climates. They are heavy and effortful to install, but they guarantee sturdiness that could withstand insect attacks, fire, and heavy snow pile up. They come in several colors, textures, and strength. They provide maximum protection from fire, weather, and insects and cost relatively high.

Fabricated Slate Shingles

Fabricated slate shingles are lighter and are made of plastic and rubber. They provide almost the same quality of protection as authentic slate and resemble the latter's look very closely. For a fraction of the price of slate shingles, they can provide shelter for up to 50 years.

Solar Shingles

Solar shingles are the most expensive roofing shingles today. They are environment-friendly and can be installed on existing shingles. They help conserve electricity by serving as a solar energy conductor and storage panel. This is the choice of most green consumers.

Cedar Shingles

Cedar shingles have an exquisite, earthy appeal and have been used in house construction since earlier times. They are available in honey, cinnamon, and silvery gray colors. However, modern homeowners today prefer not to use cedar for their roofing because they are high-maintenance and not fire resistant.

Concrete Shingles

Concrete shingles are also one of the most popular choices as shingles. The sand-and-cement combination makes for a sturdy protection from any element, extreme temperature, and shattering. They are inexpensive and low-maintenance.

Clay Tile Shingles

Clay tiles are very well suited for warmer climates as they deflect the heat from the sun and provide a cooler shade to the interior. They do not work well in places with very cool climates as they are prone to breakage and water damage. Clay shingles provide very excellent fire protection. They can be installed interlocking or overlapping.

Composition Shingles

Composition shingles make use of asphalt and fiberglass. They are relatively cheaper and more popular. They are water resistant, fire resistant, and come in different hues.

Shingles are typically installed by professional installers or home builders. They can help you determine the best material to use for your home. Some shingle repairs can be done the do-it-yourself way, but for heavier materials, it is better to seek professional help. It is a good idea to contact your local roofer to find out what type of shingle best suits your needs for your home.

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The Land

 

Planning

 

Construction

 

Framing Phase

Rough-in Phase

Drywall Phase

Interior Carpentry

Flat-work Phase

Paint & Stain

Finishing Phase

Completion