09 Jun Cedar Shakes vs Asphalt Shingles: Insights from a Roof Replacement Company in Schaumburg, Illinois
Is your roof due for a replacement? Trying to decide between a traditional roofing material, like asphalt shingles, or a more luxurious option, like cedar shakes? If so, there are a wide range of factors you’ll want to think about before deciding on the right material for your home.
To help you decide on the perfect option, this roof replacement company in Schaumburg, Illinois is going to highlight some of the key things you should know about these materials below.
Durability
In terms of durability, cedar shakes are the winner. They tend to last around 40 years, though they can sometimes last longer in the right conditions. Asphalt shingles, on the other hand, typically last around 30 years, regardless of the conditions surrounding them.
That said, there isn’t a huge gulf of durability between the two. When you consider how much more maintenance-intensive cedar shakes are, this gulf seems even smaller.
Aesthetics
Aesthetically speaking, cedar shakes tend to be more highly regarded. Whereas asphalt shingles possess a sleek but mass-manufactured appearance, cedar shakes possess a warm and natural look.
In truth, this all comes down to personal preference. Asphalt shingles are extremely popular, and because of this, they tend to blend in with the shingles on the other homes around them.
Cedar shakes, conversely, aren’t quite as popular or as common. Because of this, if you install them on your home, you’ll have one of the most unique-looking residences around.
Maintenance Needs
All roofing shingles require some level of maintenance. That said, cedar shakes require much more maintenance than asphalt shingles.
Asphalt shingles typically just need to be cleaned from time to time. This might require the application of algae remover in extreme cases, but that’s generally about as intensive as it gets.
Cedar shakes need to be cleaned as well. In addition to cleaning however, they also require the regular application of protective treatments like water repellent and fire repellant. This makes them not only more time-consuming to maintain, but more expensive as well.
Insulation
Let’s talk about insulation. After all, if your roof can’t keep out external temperatures, your home’s energy efficiency is going to suffer.
Both materials possess sufficient insulation. That said, cedar shakes’ insulative qualities far surpass those of asphalt shingles. Because of this, they help take strain off your HVAC system, saving you money on both energy and repair costs.
Asphalt shingles aren’t going to actively harm your home in this regard. However, they’re not going to provide a massive benefit either. If your roof’s insulation level is a high priority to you, your roof replacement company in Schaumburg, Illinois will likely recommend going with cedar shakes.
Cost
Finally, let’s talk about cost. Simply put, asphalt shingles are usually the more affordable option. In fact, asphalt shingles are typically one of the most affordable residential roofing materials available. This, along with their low maintenance needs and solid aesthetics, makes them the most popular form of residential roofing in the Schaumburg area.
The thing to keep in mind with cedar shake shingles is their maintenance needs. When you factor in their above-average maintenance costs, you’ll see that they’re quite a bit more expensive over time than asphalt shingles.
That said, there are all sorts of roofing material options on the market today, each of which comes at a different price point. For an accurate estimate on what each material will cost, you can always consult with your roof replacement company in Schaumburg, Illinois.
Looking for a Roof Replacement Company in Schaumburg, Illinois?
Are you ready to have your roof replaced this summer? If so, and if you’re searching for the best roof replacement company in Schaumburg, Illinois, look no further than our team at Aspen Exterior Company. Contact us today at (847) 590-5600 to begin the process.
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