Do you know Asphalt Shingles vs Rubber Roofing? Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material among most homeowners and home builders in North America. As a result, people often confuse asphalt roofs with rubber roofs and vice versa. In this blog post, we will debunk some myths about these two types of roofing materials so that you can make an informed decision when it comes to choosing your new roof!
- Is Rubber Roofing Better than Shingles?
- How Long Do Rubber Shingles Last?
- Is Rubber Roofing Expensive?
- How Long Does a Rubber Roof Last on a House?
- What is the Best Rated Asphalt Roofing Shingles?
- Can You Put Rubber Roofing Over Shingles?
- Is Rubber Roofing More Expensive Than Felt?
- How Thick Should Rubber Roofing Be?
Is Rubber Roofing Better Than Shingles?
Rubber roofing is made from recycled tires, sawdust, and slate dust. This versatile material can be maneuvered in spaces where typical asphalt cannot go due to its flexibility. The eco-friendly rubber or plastic polymers are used for a single-ply synthetic membrane roof that is waterproof and pliant as well as strong enough to resist any leaks!
Asphalt shingles are made from asphalt-saturated fiberglass that’s covered with granules of rock. Rubber is better suited for flat roofs, while the more flexible and sturdy material used in producing asphalt shingles makes them perfect for sloped roofs.
How Long do Rubber Shingles Last?
Your rubber roof will last you a very long time, and you’ll be surprised at how little maintenance is needed. Asphalt shingles typically only last 15-20 years with lots of attention, while your rubber roof can go 30+ years without any cracks or leaks! If there are some minor problems like cracking or leaking, they’re easily fixed quickly by applying latex sealant to the area.
Is Rubber Roofing Expensive?
Rubber shingle prices differ depending on which type you buy or where construction workers live – some charge more for labor in their pricing. Generally, Rubber shingles cost more than asphalt but are cheaper and just as fire-resistant. The total price will vary based on the specific material you choose for your roof and how much labor your contractors charge in that area. Rubber is typically $4-$8 per square foot, with installation costing around 425-825 dollars per square. In comparison, asphalt costs about 100 to 150 bucks a piece which can save you money over time from their high energy efficiency ratings–typically lasting twice as long!
How Long Does a Rubber Roof Last on a House?
Rubber roofs are incredibly durable and will last for 40-50 years if properly maintained. If installed with proper drainage in mind, they can even last much longer! Your roofing contractor should install your rubber roof so water drains away from the rooftop, which may include flashing to help channel water safely off of vulnerable surfaces.
What is the Best Rated Asphalt Roofing Shingles?
Asphalt shingles are one of the most affordable roofing materials on the market, and there’s a wide variety to choose from. The following are some of the best shingles.
Metal Shingles
A less popular, nevertheless common, roof material is metal. Metal shingles are stylish and available in many different colors. It is the perfect choice for those who want their home to stand out from all other houses in their neighborhood. Metal shingles are durable and low maintenance.
Solar Shingles
This is a new type of roofing material on the market that will protect your home from natural disasters and help you save money. Unlike other types, solar shingles are made out of photoactive cells that power up during the day to provide energy for inside use when they’re not generating electricity!
In today’s eco-friendly environment, more people than ever before have been opting to install these environmentally friendly roofs onto their homes. Solar Shingles offer many benefits over traditional materials such as asphalt or slate tiles: while some may say there isn’t enough funding available yet to make this an attractive option financially just yet.
Slate Shingles
Slate roofing shingles are a natural choice for homeowners looking to find an attractive, lighter roof. These thin pieces of slate can be laid down in various patterns and shades that will have your guests staring up at the sky with their mouths wide open!
Rubber Shingles
Rubber shingles are one of the most sustainable roof coverings on today’s market. They act as a natural sponge to help with runoff, and they’re less combustible than other, more common materials like wood or asphalt – which can lead to greater peace of mind when wildfires spread quickly!
Asphalt Shingles
If you’re on a budget, asphalt shingles might be the best option for your roof. In addition to being cheaper than luxury materials such as slate or tile, they are also less expensive than metal shingles.
Knowing which brand of Asphalt shingles are the best in the market will help your home be extra protected. At Consumer Reports, they conducted tests to replicate the load and conditions asphalt shingles endure over time. They focused on the weak spots in shingles because that’s where they typically incur damage – like bending or cracking after intense hail storms. The group also tested how different long types of roof tiles will stand up against UV rays from sunlight, which can cause them to turn yellow and brittle with age.
After a rigorous test that simulated the most intense conditions, Consumer Reports has found three brands of shingles to be up for the challenge. The machine applied force to simulate everything from strong winds and fallen trees on your roof all the way down to thick sections where the overlapping occurs – ultimately, it was these three roofing brands that emerged victoriously:
- GAF Timberline Shingles
- IKO Classic Series Roof Shingle
- Royal Building Products Premium Plus
Can You Put Rubber Roofing Over Shingles?
Yes. Sometimes, rubber roofing is placed on top of old shingles with a layer of foam insulation in between. The rubber then serves as an extra waterproof membrane and reflects heat from the sun away from your home. This can keep you cooler during hot days by lowering energy costs since it insulates and deflects more heat than traditional shingle roofs do.
Is Rubber Roofing More Expensive than Felt?
It would be best always to explore the different options available to you when installing or upgrading a roof. Felt is still one of the most cost-effective flat roofing solutions, but many homeowners would prefer investing in materials that last for as long as possible––budget allowing! There’s no doubt felt has come a long way since it was first introduced 90 years ago; today’s fiberglass wool and rubberized asphalt products are heavier than ever before while being more waterproof than their predecessors.
Rubber roofing is about twice as expensive as felt and typically ranges from $18 to $20 per square foot. On the other hand, asphalt shingles are usually less than half that price – but they also require more maintenance over time since it’s not a 100% waterproof material.
How Thick Should Rubber Roofing Be?
Rubber roofing usually ranges from ½” to ¾ of an inch thick. As long as it’s fitted correctly, you should have no problem installing the material over your current shingle roof or replacing your old felt with a new and improved rubberized asphalt product. It generally weigh a bit more than felt, but its durability and improved waterproofing offset the added weight.
Conclusion
Rubber shingles are not your average roof. These rugged, durable tiles are made of rubber and have a glossy finish that’s designed to resist the elements for years at a time without cracking or peeling away like their asphalt counterparts. They may be more expensive up front, but rubber shingles are much better for the long term. They’re durable and don’t need any maintenance, and can save you money in the end due to their cost-effectiveness.
For more roofing material options, visit RoofingBronxnyc.com. RoofingBronxnyc.com is your trusted roofing contractor if you’re in need of roof replacement or roof installation. They also offer various roofing systems with a long lifespan like metal roof, slate roof, clay tiles, asphalt shingle, fiberglass shingles, composite shingles, 3 tab shingles, and other types of asphalt roof material.
