I consider myself a well-informed consumer. By today’s standards that can be inferred as I spend hours on the internet reading blogs/reviews for and against the items I’m considering purchasing. Unfortunately, this time consuming task is required for homeowners deciding on a shingle manufacture and style.

Yes, there is nothing worse than pouring over copious amounts of data, on a subject that is both boring and resentfully costly. However, like many decisions, the more effort you invest on the front end, the less likely you are to reap an unnecessary ulcer.

So, what should you consider when choosing a shingle for your home?

The first question I ask homeowners is what constraints are imposed by your HOA? A roofer, experienced in interacting with architectural committees, should be able to help you track down the information needed.

The next consideration is, how long do you intend to stay in your home or phrased another way, how long do you intend to keep the home in your family? If you require a new roof do to age or damage, why put a heavy weight shingle on a home you plan to sell in 5yrs? Like many improvements, roofs will not register a positive ROI.

When shopping for shingles, remember, 20yr, 30yr, 50yr, Lifetime is no indication of how long the shingle will last on your roof. Those years are the manufacture’s guideline for how long they will warranty the shingle against defect (provided the roof was installed properly). In Georgia, given our weather extremes and factors such as storms, the shade your roof receives, the direction your main slopes face, you should expect no more than 12 – 20 years of useful service life from your roof. Thicker (heavier weight) shingles will place your roof on the higher end of the longevity and storm resistance scale.

Beyond the shingles, the amount/quality of ventilation and attic insulation will have a significant impact on the life of your roof. Asphalt shingles are petroleum based and are naturally affected by heating and cooling. The more heat retained by your home’s attic, the more radically your shingles become pliable and then contract when they cool. This action leads to premature brittleness and a shorter service life of your roof. A knowledgeable roofer will inspect your attic and factor the proper amount of ventilation required for your roof.

Lastly, consider style and color. I am one of those who love the shingles that imitate the look of wood shake or slate… today. Several months ago, I wasn’t very fond of the appearance. A great rule of thumb is to avoid extremes, unless your development has no common style from house to house.

Replacing a roof is low on everyone’s list of desirable projects. However, doing your due diligence by hiring a knowledgeable roofer and selecting products that will serve your immediate and future needs can make the process far less stressful.