When dealing with a roof replacement for your home, you have the option to stick with materials that are similar to your previous roof, or take the opportunity to upgrade and modernize the structure. Even if you are replacing your roof due to storm damage and are working within the confines of a contractor’s appraisal, you can choose to pay an upgrade cost to get shingles that are higher quality than the existing product you are replacing.
The type of shingles you choose are one of the most important decisions you can make. When it comes to the durability, longevity, and aesthetic of your roof, selecting the right shingles for your home makes all the difference. Your geographical area and local weather patterns also greatly affect the shingles that will be best for you, so keep this in mind as you’re doing your research.
At Indy Roof & Restoration, polymer modified shingles are one of our most recommended to customers. However, we also know that every homeowner’s situation is unique, and the right choice for one resident is not necessarily going to be the same as that of another. If you are considering polymer modified shingles for your home, here’s what you need to know.
What are Polymer Modified Shingles?
Polymer modified shingles are relatively new to the roofing industry. But in the short time they’ve been available, they have proven to be an excellent option for many homeowners. While they look identical to traditional 3-tab asphalt shingles (which were the go-to material for many decades), the construction of them is slightly different. When the shingles are in their raw state, polymers are added to the mixture to create a unique material. Then, less heat is used during stabilization. This results in a rubber compound interior that is more flexible and durable overall than asphalt shingles.
Comparing Roof Shingle Options
Asphalt shingles aren’t the only alternative to polymer modified shingles, and we would be remiss not to mention them. While this is not the main focus of this blog, we encourage you to do your research and find the option that works best for your house. While polymer modified shingles are an excellent option, other types have their own benefits as well. Depending on your priorities, there may be another option that better aligns with your goals, whether that be longevity, aesthetic, or even sustainability. Our team at Indy Roof & Restoration can also provide details on the benefits and advantages of the various shingle options.
Types of shingles include:
- Asphalt
- Fiberglass
- Wood
- Tile (concrete)
- Slate tile
- Ceramic
- Clay
- Metal
In addition to the various materials available, there are also some specialty roof shingle options, including dimensional shingles (a great alternative to 3-tab asphalt shingles), impact-resistant shingles, and COOL shingles with solar reflecting granules that are an excellent eco-friendly option. Be sure to speak with your roofer if you are interested in these options and to determine if they may be good options for your home.
Why Polymer Modified Shingles Are a Great Option
Because polymer modified shingles have a rubber compound interior and are more flexible, they are far more resistant to high winds and other extreme weather hazards, like hail and snow. For this reason, they are an excellent choice for many homeowners in areas where storm damage is a significant risk. They are becoming increasingly popular in Indianapolis and the surrounding communities.
No product is perfect, of course, but when it comes to polymer modified shingles, we have found that the benefits typically outweigh the disadvantages in most cases.
Benefits of Polymer Modified Shingles:
- More durable than traditional shingles
- Longer lifespan
- More heat-resistant
- Withstands hail more readily
- Shingles will return to original shape even after impact or “denting”
- No cracking or curling with extreme temperatures
- Allows rainwater to evaporate, minimizing the risk of rot or mold growth
Downsides of Polymer Modified Shingles:
- More expensive
- Longer installation time
- Bonding shingles to the roof requires particular care
- Heavier initial weight
- Not available in many colors
Although polymer modified shingles require a higher upfront cost, they have a much longer lifespan (up to 50 years compared to the 30 years for asphalt shingles). The return on investment is often worth it in the long run if you have the budget.
Additionally, because of their durability, most home insurance providers offer discounts up to 20% to homeowners with polymer modified shingles because they are less likely to suffer damage in the event of a storm. This should be taken into account when considering the cost associated with each type of roof shingle.
On a final note, the durability of these shingles also means that you are less likely to have to deal with the costs of roof replacement down the road, ultimately costing you less than a less durable option.
Installing Polymer Modified Shingles in Indianapolis
Our team of expert roofers at Indy Roof & Restoration has provided top-tier expertise to Indianapolis homeowners since 2018. We place a major emphasis on educating our customers, because you deserve to know exactly how your home is being cared for. While we believe polymer modified shingles are an excellent choice for most homeowners, we are more concerned with making sure you get the best care for your unique circumstance.
If you are in the Indianapolis area and looking to replace your roof, we are here to help walk you through the entire process. Whether you are dealing with an insurance claim after storm damage or you’re replacing your roof simply because it needs updating, we can offer friendly service, roofers who respect your home, and quality products that stand the test of time.
For more information about polymer modified shingles or to request a quote, reach out to Indy Roof & Restoration today.
