What Is the Best Residential Roofing Material for Michigan’s Unique Climate?
Learn more about why asphalt shingles are the ideal roofing material for homes in Michigan and which system L&S Home Improvements recommends.
Learn more about why asphalt shingles are the ideal roofing material for homes in Michigan and which system L&S Home Improvements recommends.
In Michigan’s ever-changing weather, where homes face everything from high winds and hail to heavy rain and snow, choosing the right roofing material is crucial. Among the various options available, asphalt shingles provide exceptional strength and durability and stand out as the best choice for effectively combating these diverse weather conditions.
Read on to learn why asphalt shingles are the top recommendation for Michigan homes and which asphalt roofing system our team at L&S Home Improvements recommends.
Asphalt shingles are one of the most widely used materials for roofing in Michigan and are known for their versatility, durability, and cost-effectiveness. They are made primarily from fiberglass matting coated with asphalt and topped with mineral granules, providing a reliable barrier against rain, hail, and wind.
Besides durability, asphalt shingles are also known for their insulative properties and help maintain comfortable temperatures inside the home, regardless of outside weather conditions. This insulation capability contributes to their energy efficiency, potentially reducing heating and cooling costs.
Asphalt shingles are also relatively easy to install and repair, which can help significantly reduce maintenance costs.
Lastly, we know that aesthetic appeal is also a major factor for homeowners, so you’ll be happy to know that asphalt shingles are available in many colors and styles, from traditional three-tab to more luxurious architectural designs, making it easy to find a style that matches your existing home’s exterior.
Benefits:
Asphalt shingles offer several advantages over other popular roofing materials like metal, slate, and cedar shake.
Let’s explore these advantages.
Although known for their durability and long lifespan, metal roofs have several drawbacks. First, they can be significantly louder than asphalt shingles during rainstorms. This is a serious disadvantage for homeowners because Michigan experiences heavy rainstorms, including severe thunderstorms with hail.
Additionally, the higher upfront cost of metal roofing is also a consideration, as it can be a substantial investment compared to asphalt shingles. If not installed correctly, metal roofs can also lead to major headaches, including leaks from destructive rust.
Lastly, metal roofs have a distinct sheen and a limited color range that may not be appealing, especially if you’re looking for a traditional or subtle aesthetic.
Next, slate roofing, known for its natural beauty and longevity, is one of the most expensive roofing materials to install. Beyond the initial installation cost, slate roofs require significant upkeep to maintain their appearance and functionality.
Typical maintenance may include replacing broken tiles, which is harder to do than shingles because each slate tile is unique, frequently removing moss and algae, especially if you live in a shaded environment, and regularly assessing structural assessments, as slate roofs require a strong structural support system. This level of maintenance can be challenging for many homeowners. In comparison, asphalt shingles only need biannual or yearly inspections and routine gutter cleaning.
Cedar shake roofs are prized for their rustic charm and natural insulation properties. However, like slate, they are very expensive to install. Cedar shake roofs demand consistent maintenance to preserve their appearance and durability, including routine cleaning to remove moss, algae, and lichen, not to mention sealing every few years to repel water and resist UV damage. Comparatively, asphalt shingles require minimal maintenance and are more resistant to varying weather conditions.
Servicing homeowners in Michigan, L&S Home Improvements is committed to only using the best materials for roofing installations. That’s why we exclusively use CertainTeed’s Integrity Roof System®, specifically designed to provide optimal protection against extreme weather conditions.
The system contains several major components:
The primary benefit of the Integrity Roof System® lies in its holistic approach to roofing. By integrating high-quality materials and specialized components, it offers superior protection against the elements, enhanced durability, and improved energy efficiency. Additionally, the design versatility of CertainTeed’s shingles ensures you don’t have to compromise on style for the sake of functionality.
Try CertainTeed’s design tool to see how the Integrity Roof System® would look on your home!
If you need a new roof, turn to L&S Home Improvements. We’re a certified, family-owned and -operated roofing contractor committed to providing exceptional customer support, transparent pricing, and quality workmanship.
We make our roof installation and replacement processes as easy as possible. All you have to do is schedule an appointment, and we’ll send out a roof specialist to perform a complimentary attic and roof inspection, discuss materials, warranty information, project scope, and more. Once you hire us, our team will handle the rest, keeping you updated during every stage of the process.
If budget is a concern, know that we also provide flexible financing options through GreenSky and Enhancify. We offer No Interest No Payment options, Traditional 10 year, and customized solutions (subject to credit approval). You can use our easy online tool to determine your monthly payments based on the quote we give you.
Contact us today to get started with a free quote.
