Choosing roofing shingles can be a tricky task for many people. You must ensure that you pick the right shingles. But how do you do that? Well, you can start by considering the factors highlighted in this article.

Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is a crucial factor when purchasing shingles. You want shingles that can help keep your indoor space cool. The shingles should reflect heat during summer and conserve heat during cold weather. If you reside in a hot area, you should choose light-colored shingles because they reflect more sunlight. On the other hand, dark-colored shingles do pretty well in colder climates because they absorb heat faster.

Aesthetics

As much as you want a high-performance roof, this doesn't mean you have to choose shingles that you find unattractive. You want shingles that make your home look good. Therefore, you must purchase shingles that complement your home's exterior. And if that proves difficult, ask a roofing contractor to help you pick the perfect shingles for your roof.

Weight

Weight is a crucial factor that most people disregard. If you pick heavy roof shingles, it will take longer to install them. As such, the cost to install them will go up. You should also confirm that your home is stable enough to support the weight of your shingles. If that's not the case, you'll be putting your family in harm's way. Besides, you'll have to deal with roof sagging issues.

And while heavy roof shingles are quite durable, you can still get light yet durable ones. You can ask a contractor to help pick the right shingle material.

Cost

Erecting a roof can be pretty expensive, and you may want to save a couple of dollars. However, that doesn't mean you should opt for cheap roofing shingles. Remember that cheap shingles may not last as long as other options, and you may need to keep replacing them. If possible, go for shingles that will last longer, even if it means paying extra. Also, ensure that you hire a trusted roofing contractor for the best results.

Local Building Codes

Before you purchase roofing shingles, you should familiarize yourself with your local building codes or homeowners association requirements. Your HOA might have strict laws that dictate the type of roofing material you should use. So, if the code requires you to use asphalt shingles, don't go for anything different, as you'll have to redo the roof. Also, find out if there is a specific color you should go for.

For more information, talk to a roofing contractor.