When it comes to a new roof, the shingles you choose can significantly impact your home’s overall look, energy efficiency, and long-term durability. There are so many options on the market which can make making the right choice overwhelming, but with the proper guidance, it doesn’t have to be. In this blog post, we’ll walk through critical factors—style, durability, and climate—and how to make the best decision for your roof.

At Valley Roofing, we simplify the decision-making process by recommending Malarkey and CertainTeed as two of the highest-quality shingle manufacturers. Our deep expertise and partnership as a Select Shingle Master for CertainTeed and an Emerald Premium Contractor for Malarkey give us insight into the value these shingles provide. We’ll dive into why these brands are our top recommendations and how they fit into different considerations when choosing shingles.

Style: Finding the Perfect Look for Your Home

Shingles not only protect your home but also add to its curb appeal, as “…your roof can account for up to 40% of your home’s visible exterior.” It is essential that you choose a style and color that complements your home. Plenty of shingle styles, colors, and designs are available, allowing you to fully customize your roof’s appearance.

Shingle Styles

Shingles generally come in three basic types:

• 3-Tab Shingles:
  3-Tab shingles are the most traditional and cost-effective option. They offer a flat appearance and work well for homeowners on a budget, but may provide a different aesthetic depth than other styles.
• Architectural Shingles:
  Architectural (a.k.a. dimensional or laminated) shingles have a thicker, textured look, mimicking wood shake or slate roofing. They are more durable than 3-tab shingles and offer a premium appearance.
• Luxury Shingles:
  There are also high-end options for shingles, which offer stunning aesthetics with deep dimension and rich color blends. Luxury shingles often simulate natural materials like slate or cedar and provide excellent durability. They can maintain a premium appearance while withstand severe weather conditions.

Color and Design

The right shingle color can enhance your home’s exterior and even impact energy efficiency. Dark shingles, such as Malarkey’s Windsor in “Black Oak”, offer a bold, sophisticated look, while lighter shingles can create a softer, more subtle appearance.

Consider the following when selecting color:

• Home Style:
  Traditional homes often look great with darker shades, while lighter or neutral tones work well for modern or coastal homes.
• Exterior Color:
  You’ll want your shingle color to complement your siding, trim, and other exterior elements. For brick or stone exteriors, choose a shingle color that either blends harmoniously or contrasts attractively.
• Heat Absorption:
  Keep in mind that dark-colored shingles absorb more heat, which can raise cooling costs during hot summers. Lighter colors tend to reflect sunlight and may be more energy efficient in warmer climates.
• Valley Roofing is a Select Shingle Master for CertainTeed and Emerald Premium Contractor for Malarkey. Each manufacturer offers a wide range of color and design options, making it easier to find a perfect match for your home’s style. We often recommend the Windsor shingle from Malarkey.

Durability: How Long Will Your Roof Last?

Roofing is a big investment, so you want to ensure the shingles you choose will stand the test of time. The durability of shingles largely depends on the material, quality of the installation, and environmental factors.

Material Durability

When it comes to roof materials and durability, asphalt shingles are a popular choice. They are the cheapest roofing option on the market, highly durable, and easy to install. High-quality shingles can provide long-lasting protection by resisting impact from debris and extreme weather conditions like hail.

Impact & Wind Resistance:

Most shingles are designed to withstand extreme weather conditions (e.g. hail, snow, or falling debris). High winds can cause significant and costly damage to your roof, especially in areas like Oregon, where wind speeds can increase during storms. Many premium shingles are engineered to resist wind speeds of up to 130 mph, helping to ensure your roof stays intact during storms.

Algae Resistance:

In areas with high humidity or frequent rainfall, algae growth can occur and cause unsightly black streaks on your roof. Fortunately, many premium shingles come with algae-resistant granules for long-lasting protection.

Warranty Coverage

When selecting shingles, it’s important to review the manufacturer’s warranty. Warranties can vary widely and may cover different aspects such as wind resistance, algae growth, and overall lifespan. For example, CertainTeed shingles come with extensive warranties that often cover the product for up to 50 years. Malarkey shingles also come with impressive warranties, ensuring long-term performance.

At Valley Roofing, we ensure that all shingles we install are backed by comprehensive manufacturer warranties. This gives you added security in your investment.

Climate: Choosing Shingles for Your Region

The climate you live in significantly determines which shingles are best for your home. Certain shingles are better suited to handle specific weather conditions, so you’ll want to choose materials and designs that offer optimal protection for your region.

Valley Roofing serves the Willamette Valley, where the climate brings wet winters and mild summers. Homes in this area require shingles that can handle moisture, wind, and algae growth. The region’s heavy rainfall can lead to issues like water infiltration, moss, and algae buildup, so selecting shingles with moisture-resistant properties is crucial. Additionally, wind-resistant shingles are essential for the occasional high winds that pass through the valley. Algae-resistant shingles can help keep roofs clean and free from unsightly stains, particularly in this damp environment.

Climate Challenges in the Pacific Northwest

Oregon’s wet climate presents unique roofing challenges. The heavy rainfall can lead to issues such as moss, algae, and water infiltration, making it crucial to select shingles that can handle moisture effectively.

• Moisture Resistance:
  With significantly high amounts of rainfall, your shingles need to be able to resist water damage and mold. Many shingles are designed with this in mind; equipped with waterproofing technologies to prevent moisture from penetrating the roof.
• Wind Resistance:
  Choosing shingles with high wind-resistant ratings is a smart way to go, especially if your region frequently experiences strong winds. There are many shingles like Malarkey’s Windsor that offer excellent wind resistance.
• Algae and Moss:
  Algae and moss growth can be a problem in damp environments like Oregon. Many high-end shingles come with built-in algae resistance, keeping your roof looking clean and new over time.
• Snow and Ice:
  In higher elevation areas that experience snowfall, shingles with superior durability and water-shedding capabilities are a must. Look for shingles that are specifically engineered to handle snow and ice accumulation. If not managed properly, ice dams can form and cause damage.

Why Valley Roofing Recommends Malarkey and CertainTeed

At Valley Roofing, we pride ourselves on installing roofs that are meant to last. That’s why we recommend Malarkey and CertainTeed shingles. As installers, we’ve worked with many different brands over the years, and we believe that these two manufacturers offer unmatched value, durability, and style options.

One of our favorite products is the Windsor shingle from Malarkey, which combines a modern, sleek appearance with industry-leading durability. Available in various colors, such as the stunning “Black Oak”, these shingles are a fantastic option for homeowners looking to balance style and performance.

Whether you’re looking for classic elegance or eco-friendly, high-performance options, we can help you find the perfect fit for your home.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice

Selecting the right shingles for your home is about more than just aesthetics. By considering factors like style, durability, and climate, you can ensure your roof will look great and protect your home for years to come.

At Valley Roofing, we’re here to guide you through the process. You can trust us to help you choose shingles that not only suit your home but also meet the demands of the Oregon climate. Contact us today to learn more about our recommended shingles and start your roofing project with confidence.

“These guys are great. Quality, experience, and customer service are what you can expect from them every time. Call them for your roofing and gutter needs.“

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Ensure your roof is ready for any weather by booking a maintenance inspection with our expert team.