Choosing Shingles for Your Colonial Style Roof

For generations, there has been a wide range of home styles to grace the country. Each of these home styles has had its time in the spotlight, becoming the preferred style of different areas. Cape Cod, Victorian, Craftsman, and Colonial are just a few of the well-known home styles. Each of these styles has a distinctive appearance, from bottom to top, with the roofs being one of the most defining features. A Colonial style roof, in particular, is incredibly popular. But what makes it unique, and what kind of shingles are best to achieve such a look?

What is Colonial Style Roofing?

Colonial style homes have been around since the 1600’s but became most popular in the 18th-century. While there are different variations of the Colonial style, there are still many similarities. First, these homes typically feature two stories and have a wooden or stone exterior. They also typically have at least one fireplace and a roof that is more pitched in certain areas, making repairs and maintenance difficult. The shingles used for a Colonial style roof tend to be natural, but they don't have to be; possible materials include wood, slate, asphalt, and even synthetic.

Popular Colonial Style Roof Shingles

1. Wood Shakes & Wood Shingles

By far, wood shakes and wood shingles are the most common roofing material for colonial style roofs. It also happens to be a classic, natural option that creates a beautiful rustic appearance. While they can provide decent protection, keep in mind that natural cedar wood shakes require a great deal of upkeep.

2. Natural Slate

Slate is another natural option that provides an elegant appearance for Colonial style homes, especially those with a more modern style. It is a durable, easy to repair option that requires little maintenance. However, it weighs a lot, and a home would need to be modified to handle the weight. Keep in mind that natural slate is very beautiful and complements many home style types.

3. Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most common shingle option these days, even with colonial-style homes. They are an economically friendly option that is durable and affordable compared to natural wood and natural slate.

4. Synthetic Roofing

Modern processing techniques have made it possible to create durable, aesthetically appealing synthetic roofing shingles. These shingles can mimic the appearance of other materials, like wood and slate, but will last longer and require less care.

Which Roof Shingles to Consider for your Colonial Home?

Every shingle option, no matter the roof style you are considering, has its own advantages and disadvantages. For a Colonial style roof, it is important to remember that it has higher pitched areas. Because of this pitch, roof repairs and maintenance may be more difficult and can be somewhat dangerous if not handled appropriately. Which means you really want to choose your shingles wisely.

Wood shingles, while traditional and beautiful, require the most upkeep of all the common colonial options. From repairs and replacing old shingles to the maintenance, work that will be needed at the end of every season to keep them in top shape. It also means expenses will add up.

Although slate requires less upkeep, they are heavy and older structures may not support the added weight.

Finally, there is asphalt and synthetic. Both are lightweight options, but asphalt shingles still require a little bit of maintenance and need replacing after a certain amount of time. Synthetic shingles, on the other hand, can last longer.

The Benefits of CeDUR Synthetic Roofing Shingles

Synthetic roofing shingles are a beautiful option for a Colonial style roof for many reasons. CeDUR provides the perfect solution with their simulated cedar wood shakes that feature an authentic wood shake appearance and look just like natural cedar shakes.

CeDUR's polyurethane shakes are made using a state-of-the-art process, creating a water resistant, highly durable roofing option. They have a stand-alone Class A Fire Rating, a Class 4 Impact Rating, and wind resistance up to 115 mph, making them safe for harsh climates.

Beyond their durability, they are incredibly lightweight, weighing in at just 170 pounds per square. The best feature is that they are low maintenance.