The two most popular roofing types in the United States are shingle and tile roofs. A shingle roof is a type of roof that is covered with a variable thickness, rectangular asphalt composition material that is applied in overlapping layers over the entire roof deck. For added protection, modern shingle roofs are installed on top of high tensile strength synthetic waterproofing or felt underlayments depending on the job scope. Today’s modern asphalt shingles protect the roof from sun and water damage and have an attractive look. Tile roofs offer you a modern ranch or spanish appearance but can be more expensive compared to standard composition shingle. Tiles can significantly increase a home’s value and curb appeal, but they weigh significantly more than shingles so they aren’t appropriate for all homes.

Shingle Roof Installations

Shingle roofs are the most popular type of roof in the United States because they are attractive, cost-efficient, cost-efficient and appropriate for most  pitches. This type of roofing material is much lighter than slate, tile and some kinds of metal, so they can be used on most roofs without any additional structural support.

We carry a wide selection of shingles including asphalt, composition, fiberglass, dimensional (also called laminate), architectural, and Title 24 and 32 Cool Roofing systems. Shingles come in a variety of colors and offer a limited Lifetime warranty for single family detached homes. The cost of all modern shingles is dependent on the quality, quantity, and durability of the shingles used. In some cases, a new shingle roof can be installed without removing the existing shingles, which saves labor and dumpster costs.

Wood Shake

Contrary to popular belief, wood shake is still allowed in a number of cities around Southern California. The only stipulation is that the wood shakes must be treated with fire retardant. Wood shake is still one of the most reliable products in the market with warranties of 30­-50 years in some cases.

Wood shake comes in various thicknesses to enhance their appearance. It is light weight, fire retardant and gives a home that natural wood beauty. Many products came into the roof market the were to simulate wood shakes for their rustic appearance. Majority of these products failed and are now out of business.

Roof Shingles

Roofing shingles can be called by various names in the industry. Some people call them Asphalt Shingles as they are made of asphalt layers. The asphalt helps determine the life of the roof. More asphalt equals longer use. Some people refer to shingles as Fiberglass as there is a fiberglass matte in between the layers of asphalt.

Fiberglass in what binds the asphalt together to make the material strong. Some people refer to shingles as Composition as they are a mix or composition of asphalt and fiberglass. All three names refer to the same general product. All three have colored granules embedded onto the top to protect the material. The main differences between the materials is in their appearance. Dimensional shingles have 2­-3 layers of asphalt matte and create a dimensional appearance on the roof. Architectural shingles are some of the heaviest roof shingles and can create a wood shingle/slate appearance. Each shingle manufacturer has a unique product name for the style (Certainteed Landmark Dimensional, Certainteed Presidential Architectural) but the product design for the dimensional or architectural  is the same for all manufacturers.  Variables may include color options. All roof shingles are Class A fire rated, light weight to eliminate the need for attic reinforcing and are safe to walk on.

Composition

Fiberglass composition shingles are the most common type of shingle used today. They are highly durable, protect the roof from UV rays and provide Class-A fire resistance. Composition shingles feature a fiberglass mat which is coated with mineral fillers and asphalt, which makes them waterproof. The top layer is then embedded with a layer of ceramic granules. The material is lightweight so it can be installed on almost any roof without additional structural support.

Dimensional

Dimensional shingles (also known as laminate shingles) are a composition shingle that has a second layer fused to the base shingle, which doubles its thickness. This gives them a three-dimensional appearance and makes them more durable. They are available in the traditional style, which looks a lot like cedar shingles, or in a variety of designer styles ranging from rustic old world styles to ornate decorative looks. Dimensional shingles are an upgrade from 3-tab shingles and last longer than traditional 3-tabs. They come with a manufacturer’s lifetime warranty for single family dwellings.

Architectural

Architectural shingles are top of the line composition shingles. They are thicker and heavier than dimensional shingles and provide a wood shingle or slate appearance.

Architectural shingles offer limited Lifetime warranties for single family detached homes.

Cool Roof

Cool roof shingles are a type of composition shingle with reflective granules, which block a percentage the sun’s heat so homes stay a more consistent temperature throughout the day. They save energy by making homes and businesses easier to cool so air conditioners don’t have to work as hard. Many reflective shingle products are energy star qualified so some utility companies provide incentives, such as rebates, for installing them.

Shingle roofs are the most popular and cost effective roofing material in the United States. There are a wide variety of shingles types to choose from and they are relatively inexpensive to install. In some cases, a new shingle roof can be installed over the old shingles, which can save you significant labor and disposal costs. A professional contractor can do the job right the first time, which is important since many manufacturers warranties are voided if the product is not installed properly.

Shake

Synthetic Shake

Synthetic Shake roofs have an attractive wood shingle appearance but they are typically made of polymerized wood or synthetic tiles instead of plain cedar. Modern synthetic shake lasts longer than natural cedar shake but has the same classic look. Shake is available in a variety of shapes and colors that give a natural, rustic look and aren’t as heavy as slate or clay roofs.

Clay

Clay tiles are made by molding and baking clay into a dense and durable tile. They come in a variety of colors and shapes. Clay tiles are Title 24 Cool Roof approved and come in lightweight and standard weight options.

Tile roofs are attractive and durable. Initially, they cost more than shingle roofs but they last longer and, with proper maintenance, rarely need to be replaced. Tile roofs are an investment that requires significant expertise. Whether you are looking for a shake, slate, mission, or clay roof, we have the experience to install it properly.