Health & Fitness
Shingles: Keep a good roof over your head
When it comes to keeping your home protected, it all starts with a good roof and covering material – such as shingles. Roof shingles are typically applied in a symmetric pattern and match or complement the outer facade of the structure. They can be made of asphalt, wood, slate, metal or tile, and must be properly attached and maintain the building’s integrity.
Protection
The main purpose of shingles is to protect the building from inclement weather, particularly rain and snow – but they also protect your home from pests, such as insects. Shingles are applied in a way that promotes good drainage from the roof peaks to the ground so water doesn’t enter the building.
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Ventilation
Shingles are necessary to protect the roof, but will fail to serve their purpose if the roof does not have a good ventilation system. Without proper ventilation, moisture and heat combine in the attic, buckle the shingles and compromise the effectiveness of the insulation. The importance of shingles is relevant to the overall condition of the roof and its purpose of protecting the entire building.
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Insulation
The importance of shingles extends to the building’s insulation. Besides protecting the drywall, furniture and flooring of the building from water damage, shingles serve as a barrier that protect the insulation of the home, which lies just a few feet below the shingles on the roof. If the shingles are loose, damaged or blown away by high winds, water can penetrate the sheathing and saturate the insulation, rendering it useless to keep heat in or out of the structure. Securely placed shingles that are in good shape are important to the protection of all layers of the roof, as well as the attic that lies beneath them.
Shingle Materials
Asphalt is the top choice for shingles – based on price, available colors to match house exteriors, ease of installation and fire resistance. Although they once were reinforced with organic material, in the past few decades, fiberglass has become the preferred material based on its durability. Wood shingles and shakes give buildings a rough, natural look and are typically made from redwood, cedar or southern pine.
Finally, to catch shingle problems before they escalate, have your roof inspected every two years. Although not the most difficult task, replacing shingle roofs is a dangerous work and should be left to professionals like Black Label Services LLC.
Call Black Label Services LLC at 952-563-0111 for a free consultation and estimate today or visit our website at www.blacklabelservices.com!