Roofing Shingles Matter During the Houston Summer

The next two months, July and August, are the most brutal when it comes to the heat index. Houston citizens are not strangers to the extreme heat. As we mentioned in our previous article, the average temperature in Houston for July and August is 94 degrees.

Whether you are an existing homeowner or looking for a new home, here is something you should consider. When having your roof placed or replaced, be sure to choose the right shingles. Shingles play a major role in how hot your home can become.

WHICH SHINGLES SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?

At Amstill Roofing, we are always concerned about the future of your home. Here are our suggestions on which roofing shingles to purchase and why:

• CLAY SHINGLES: The best shingles to choose that deflect heat are made of slate or clay. These shingles do not absorb heat like typical shingles do. These shingles do a great job of keeping your attic cooler, even during the really hot summer months, which in turn keeps your entire home cooler. When your home is naturally cooler, then your air conditioning unit doesn’t have to work nearly as hard during the summer. This can save you money on energy bills, which can add up in the long-run. In the short-run, however, these types of shingles are the most expensive. Of course, these are aesthetically pleasing, but may not fit the style of your home.
• LIGHT COLORED SHINGLES: When it comes to choosing composite shingles, the thicker the better. Architectural shingles are the thickest, but they are also the most expensive. They also have the longest warranty (typically 50 years). This is followed up by laminate shingles (30-50 year warranty) and 3-tab shingles (20-year warranty). Regardless of which you choose, always choose lighter colored shingles. These do a much better job of deflecting heat compared to darker shades. Choosing lighter shades can greatly reduce energy usage as well.

HOW ARE YOUR SHINGLES?

Are your shingles older than 20 years? Have you noticed any missing or cracked shingles? Shingles don’t last forever, but they can last a very long time. At Amstill Roofing, we want to make sure your roof is in good condition and will hold up during the summer months and the incoming hurricane season. Contact us today and schedule a free roof inspection. We will inform you of the health of your roof and how you can make your current or future roof better.