24 Jul What Are the Differences Between Cedar Shakes and Asphalt Shingles? A Roof Replacement Company in Arlington Heights, Illinois Explains
Are you getting ready to have your roof replaced? If so, there are several fantastic roofing materials to choose from. While most homeowners are familiar with asphalt shingles, there is one intriguing material that does not get quite as much attention: cedar shakes.
Are you interested in learning about cedar shakes and how they differ from asphalt shingles? If so, you’ve come to the right place. This roof replacement company in Arlington Heights, Illinois is going to compare these two materials below.
Durability
In terms of durability, cedar shakes have the slight advantage over asphalt shingles. Whereas cedar shakes tend to last for around 40 years, asphalt shingles generally top out at around 30 years.
Note, though, that if you want your cedar shakes to make it this far, you’ll have to maintain them properly. This requires a lot more work than it does for asphalt shingles.
Maintenance
As noted above, cedar shakes require a lot more maintenance than asphalt shingles. In fact, they’re the most maintenance-intensive roofing material there is. Not only do cedar shakes need to be cleaned regularly, but they need to be sealed every 3-5 years as well.
Asphalt shingles, on the other hand, only need to be cleaned from time to time. All you’ll have to do is remove debris from them by scrubbing them with a vinegar solution every year or so, and they’ll be good to go. They’re not only affordable to maintain, but simple as well.
Aesthetics
In terms of aesthetics, it’s all up to personal preference. Asphalt shingles are extremely common, and so don’t stand out much amongst other homes. That said, most roof replacement companies in Arlington Heights, Illinois offer them in a variety of shapes and colors, and they can still offer something unique to your property.
Cedar shakes, on the other hand, are a bold roofing choice. They’re staggered and overlapped in a way that makes them stand out. Plus, because they’re not as commonly used, they bring an undeniable unique look to a home.
If you are looking for something neutral and reserved, asphalt shingles might be the way to go. If you want something a little more eye-catching, you may want to consider cedar shakes.
Cost
Asphalt shingles are more affordable than cedar shakes. They can be anywhere from 50% to 75% of the price, depending on which roof replacement company in Arlington Heights, Illinois you work with.
This doesn’t take maintenance costs into account either. As noted above, the maintenance associated with cedar shakes is a lot more expensive than the maintenance associated with asphalt shingles.
Insulation
The last factor we’ll discuss is insulation. Put simply, cedar shakes provide a greater level of insulation than asphalt shingles. Wood is an excellent natural insulator and does a superb job of keeping out heat and cold.
This isn’t to say that asphalt shingles are completely lacking in insulation. They do provide some. However, it pales in comparison to what cedar shakes provide.
One of the upsides to picking cedar shakes is that your HVAC system won’t have to work as hard. This will help homeowners save money on energy costs in the long run.
Looking for a Roof Replacement Company in Arlington Heights, Illinois?
Have you decided on the right roofing material for your home? Ready to have your new roof installed by the top-rated roof replacement company in Arlington Heights, Illinois? If so, Aspen Exterior Company has you covered.
Our crew has installed new roofs for countless homeowners throughout the Arlington Heights neighborhood over the years. Whether you are looking for asphalt shingles, cedar shakes, or something else, we are the people to call. Contact us today at (847) 590-5600 to request a free estimate.
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