Choosing the right roofing material is one of the most important decisions for homeowners. The roof protects your home from weather, adds to its curb appeal, and affects long-term maintenance costs. Two popular options provided by Downers Grove roofing companies are asphalt shingles and cedar shake roofing. Each has benefits and drawbacks, so it is important to understand what works best for your home.
The Basics of Asphalt and Cedar Shake Roofing
- Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material in the U.S. They’re made from fiberglass or organic matting coated with asphalt and mineral granules. They’re known for being affordable, easy to install, and available in various colors and styles.
- Cedar Shake Roofing
Cedar shakes are wooden shingles made from split cedar logs. They have a natural, rustic look and are often chosen for their durability and insulation properties. Cedar shakes are thicker than standard wood shingles, which makes them more resistant to harsh weather.
Cost
- Initial Cost
Asphalt shingles are the more budget-friendly option. A standard asphalt roof costs less than a cedar shake roof in materials and labor. The installation process is also faster, reducing labor expenses.
Cedar shake roofing is more expensive upfront. The cost comes from the high-quality wood used and the skilled labor required for installation. The thickness and quality of the cedar also affect the overall price.
- Long-Term Costs
While asphalt shingles are cheaper initially, they may require more frequent replacement. A standard asphalt roof lasts 20 to 30 years, while cedar shakes may last 30 to 50 years if properly maintained. This means that while you save money upfront with asphalt, you might have to replace the roof sooner.
Cedar shakes require maintenance to prevent mold, rot, and insect damage. They can outlast asphalt roofs if maintained well, making them a good long-term investment.
Durability and Weather Resistance
- How They Handle Harsh Weather
Downers Grove experiences hot summers, cold winters, heavy rain, and snow. Asphalt shingles perform well in most weather conditions but become brittle in extreme cold and may suffer damage from high winds.
Cedar shakes are naturally resistant to wind, rain, and snow. They withstand extreme weather better than asphalt, making them a good choice for homeowners who want long-term durability.
- Fire Resistance
Asphalt shingles come with fire-resistant options, making them a safer choice in areas where fire risks are a concern. Cedar shakes are naturally flammable, but they can be treated with fire-resistant coatings to improve safety.
Maintenance Requirements
One of the reasons asphalt shingles are so popular is their low maintenance. They don’t require frequent upkeep beyond occasional inspections and minor repairs. If a shingle becomes damaged, it can be replaced individually, which makes maintenance easy.
Cedar shakes require more care. They need periodic cleaning to remove moss and mildew, as well as treatments to prevent rot and insect damage. If not maintained properly, cedar shakes can warp, crack, or develop mold.
Energy Efficiency
Cedar shakes provide natural insulation. The thickness of the wood helps regulate indoor temperatures, keeping homes cooler in summer and warmer in winter. This helps lower energy bills over time.
While not as insulating, asphalt shingles can be installed with reflective coatings to improve energy efficiency. Lighter-colored asphalt shingles reflect sunlight, reducing heat absorption and helping with cooling costs.
Aesthetic Appeal
Asphalt shingles come in various colors and styles, allowing homeowners to match their roof with the rest of their home’s exterior. Some high-end asphalt shingles even mimic the look of wood or slate at a fraction of the cost.
Cedar shakes have a timeless, natural beauty that asphalt cannot fully replicate. They add character to a home and work well with traditional, rustic, or high-end architectural styles. Over time, cedar shakes develop a silver-gray patina that many homeowners find appealing.
Roof Repairs
Both asphalt and cedar shake roofs will require repairs over time. Roof repair Downers Grove is common due to weather-related damage. Asphalt shingles may need replacement if they curl, crack, or lose granules. Individual shingles can be replaced without replacing the entire roof.
Cedar shakes can also be repaired, but fixing them is more complex. A shake must be carefully removed and replaced if it splits or rots. Since cedar shakes expand and contract with weather changes, improper repairs cause further issues.
Conclusion
Both asphalt and cedar shake roofing have advantages, so the best choice depends on your budget, maintenance preference, and long-term goals. For homeowners unsure about which option is right, consulting with Downers Grove roofing companies can provide guidance. Be it choosing asphalt for affordability or cedar shake for longevity, professional installation and regular roof repair in Downers Grove will ensure your roof remains strong for years to come.
