What Type Of Shingles Do Most Homes Have In Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, homes are built to withstand a variety of weather conditions, from snowstorms to hot summers. The type of roofing material you choose can make all the difference in home protection, and when it comes to durability and cost-effectiveness, asphalt shingles lead the way.

Asphalt shingles are the most popular choice for Pennsylvania homeowners. They not only look great but also offer a long lifespan and affordability, making them an ideal option for many. In this blog post, we’ll go over why asphalt shingles are the top choice for homes in Pennsylvania and other materials you can go for. 

The Popularity of Asphalt Shingles

When discussing asphalt shingles, architectural shingles (or laminate shingles) clearly take the crown in terms of popularity. You can find these shingles adorning homes on nearly every street in Pennsylvania.

Why Are Architectural Shingles So Popular?

1. Aesthetic Appeal: Architectural shingles provide a dimensional appearance that enhances the visual appeal of a home.
2. Durability: Designed to withstand the harsh Pennsylvania winters, these shingles feature a thicker, sturdier design compared to traditional 3-tab shingles.
3. Lifespan: With proper maintenance, architectural shingles can protect your home for 20-30 years, making them a worthwhile investment.

Now that we've discussed their popularity, let's dive deeper into why they’re a favorite among Pennsylvania homeowners.

You might also like: Are Luxury Asphalt Shingles Really Worth It?

Why You Should Choose Architectural Shingles For Your Home

After reading about these popular types of shingles, you might be considering laminate asphalt shingles for your home. While not in every case, laminate shingles are often a great choice. However, with the variety of options on the market, think about the following factors when choosing the right shingles for your home:

1. Warranties

Warranties provide security for your investment, so if something goes wrong, you don’t need to bear any sudden expenses.

Material Warranty: This covers defects in the shingles caused by the manufacturing process. Most architectural shingles come with a 30-year warranty (prorated after 10 years).

Workmanship Warranty: This warranty covers the quality of the installation. It varies depending on the roofing contractor you choose.

Pro Tip: Choosing a reputable, experienced roofing contractor is important to ensure proper installation and protect your warranty!

2. Cost

Roofing is an investment, no doubt about it. The cost of an architectural shingle roof – or any type of roof shingles – depends on things like the size and complexity of your roof, the quality of the shingles, and whether you upgrade components like underlayment.

Ballpark Estimate: For a general two-story home in Pennsylvania, you can expect to pay around $4.76 per square foot for a quality architectural shingle roof. 

Remember: Get detailed quotes from multiple contractors to compare prices and make sure you're getting the best value for your chosen type of shingles.

3. Lifespan

Architectural shingles are known for their durability. With proper installation and attic ventilation, you can expect them to last 20-30 years.  

To maintain the lifespan of your shingles, follow these tips:

Proper Installation: A skilled contractor will make sure your shingles are installed correctly to withstand the elements.

Attic Ventilation: Good ventilation prevents heat and moisture buildup, which can damage shingles over time.

Weather Conditions: Severe storms and extreme temperature fluctuations can impact the lifespan of your roof, no matter the type of shingles.

Maintenance: Regular inspections and frequent repairs can help extend the life of your roof.

Other Alternatives to Architectural Shingles

If laminate shingles are not the best choice for your building, there are some alternatives that might be a better fit. Here are some other common roof shingle choices in 2024:

#1 Wood Shingles

Cost: $4.50 to $8.50 per sq. foot

Wood shingles are another popular type of roof shingles in Pennsylvania. These are made from natural wood like cedar, and look great and offer good insulation which is perfect for those cold Pennsylvania winters. 

While they might cost more than other types of roofing shingles, many homeowners love their beautiful and rustic appearance. Just keep in mind that wood shingles need a bit more care and can be at risk for fire or pest infestations.

#2 Slate

Cost: $6 to $12 per sq. foot

Slate shingles are a premium and sturdy type of roof shingles. They are made from natural stone, making them super strong against wind, hail, and even fire. Slate roofing shingles can last a long time, which is great for your home. They are on the heavier and pricier side, though, so make sure your home and budget can handle them.

#3 Metal

Cost: $6 to $11 per sq. foot

Metal is becoming a popular choice among the different types of roofing shingles in Pennsylvania. You can get metal shingles in steel, aluminum, and other materials. They're tough, last a long time (from 40 to 70 years!), and don't need a lot of maintenance. 

Metal roof shingles are also great for saving energy, which can help during those chilly winters. They might cost more upfront, but many homeowners find them worth it in the long run.

Also Read: What Are Ridge Cap Shingles & Why Are They Important?

Call McClellands Contracting and Roofing For Professional Roof Installation In Pittsburgh, PA

No matter which shingle or roof type you choose, proper installation is very important for maintaining the lifespan of your roofing system. At McClellands Contracting and Roofing, we offer top-quality roof installation services in Pittsburgh, PA, and the surrounding areas. 

With our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, you can trust McClellands Contracting and Roofing to provide you with a roof that will stand the test of time. Call us today at (412) 353-5660 for more information!

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