When considering a roof replacement, not all roofing shingles are created equal. Roofing shingles might seem like a straightforward choice. After all, they look similar from a distance. But take a closer look, and you’ll notice significant differences. At Innovative Home Improvements, we often explain to homeowners in Central Maryland why choosing high-quality shingles truly matters. Simply put, not all shingles perform equally or deliver the same long-term results.
High Grade Roofing Shingles vs Big Box Shingles
When you head into a big box store, you’ll find shingles at tempting prices. The low cost may seem attractive at first glance. However, it’s important to understand the tradeoffs involved. Typically, these shingles sacrifice quality to meet price points. Lower priced shingles use thinner asphalt layers, fewer protective granules, and minimal reinforcement materials. These shortcuts mean shingles become brittle faster and often fail earlier.
On the other hand, professional grade shingles from established brands like Owens Corning offer superior construction and reliability. These shingles feature thicker asphalt layers, durable fiberglass reinforcement, and higher quality granules. This difference in materials ensures that your roof can withstand the challenges of Maryland’s weather. Stronger shingles mean fewer replacements and repairs, saving you money over time.
The Longevity Advantage
One of the most significant differences between high quality shingles and their less expensive counterparts is durability. Big box shingles often come with limited warranties. Many have expected lifespans of around 10 to 15 years at best. In contrast, professionally installed shingles from Owens Corning regularly last 25 years or longer with proper care.
This extra lifespan is critical. Maryland homes endure a range of weather conditions throughout the year, including heat, humidity, storms, snow, ice, and wind. Inferior shingles quickly show wear from harsh conditions. Quality shingles retain their performance and appearance much longer. Investing in higher grade shingles means your home stays protected without the frequent worry and expense of early replacements.
Enhanced Protection from Weather
High quality shingles don’t just last longer; they provide stronger protection. Owens Corning shingles include advanced technologies specifically engineered for weather resistance. For example, their WeatherGuard technology offers exceptional protection against wind and impacts. Strong winds from summer storms can easily tear cheap shingles loose. Owens Corning shingles resist such winds and remain securely in place.
Additionally, Owens Corning shingles include TruDefinition color technology. These shingles deliver beautiful color blends with enhanced dimensions. Along with beauty, the embedded copper-lined granules in their StreakGuard shingles prevent algae growth. Algae cause those unsightly dark streaks seen on roofs throughout Maryland. StreakGuard technology keeps your roof looking attractive and clean throughout the seasons.
Improved Energy Efficiency and Insulation
Energy efficiency is another area where shingle quality matters. Standard, inexpensive shingles lack insulation value, causing your attic to become hot or cold quickly. Poor insulation means your HVAC system must work harder, resulting in higher energy costs.
Owens Corning offers shingles designed to help regulate attic temperatures. The extra thickness and better materials in these shingles help reflect heat and reduce heat transfer. As a result, your home remains cooler in summer and warmer in winter. This improved insulation contributes to noticeable energy savings over time, offsetting higher initial costs.
Better Materials, Better Roofing Shingles
High quality shingles, like those from Owens Corning, don’t simply rely on marketing claims. They deliver proven performance through better construction methods. Owens Corning uses fiberglass mats as a core reinforcement material in their shingles. Fiberglass significantly enhances the durability and flexibility of shingles, enabling them to withstand extreme conditions.
Additionally, Owens Corning shingles use premium granules that are securely bonded to the asphalt base. Granules protect shingles from harmful UV rays and give them their attractive appearance. Inferior shingles typically lose granules prematurely, leaving your roof vulnerable to accelerated wear and deterioration.
The Importance of Professional Installation
Even the highest quality shingles require professional installation for best results. Proper installation methods greatly influence shingle performance and lifespan. Homeowners or untrained workers often install shingles purchased at big box stores. Improper techniques quickly negate any savings from cheaper shingles.
At Innovative Home Improvements, our expert installers receive extensive training and follow rigorous installation guidelines. As a MHIC-licensed, family-owned company since 1986, we have had decades of experience in exterior renovations. Our installation process ensures shingles lie flat, nails are correctly placed, and roof edges and valleys are properly sealed. The result is maximum performance, durability, and beauty.
Owens Corning’s Comprehensive Warranty Protection
One of the strongest reasons to select Owens Corning shingles is their outstanding warranty. Many big box shingles come with limited, often complicated warranties that cover only minimal issues. Owens Corning offers robust warranties that cover materials, manufacturing defects, and workmanship when installed by certified professionals.
Having comprehensive warranty coverage gives homeowners confidence and peace of mind. Should problems ever arise, you’ll know exactly who to contact and how the issue will be resolved. Choosing Owens Corning shingles from Innovative Home Improvements provides peace of mind for years to come.
Your Local Roofing Experts
Innovative Home Improvements proudly serves Central Maryland homeowners from our location in Elkridge. We’re your trusted experts in roofing, windows, doors, and siding replacement. As an award-winning renovation company, customer satisfaction remains our top priority. Clear communication, superior craftsmanship, and reliable service set us apart from other contractors.
We help homeowners select high quality products tailored to their specific needs. Our experienced team thoroughly inspects your roof, explains product differences, and recommends shingles that deliver lasting results. We understand your home is your greatest investment. That’s why we install only proven, premium brands like Owens Corning. When you partner with Innovative Home Improvements, expect dependable service from start to finish.
Choosing the Right Roofing Shingles
Selecting shingles involves more than just considering the initial price. Cheaper options from big box stores may look appealing initially, but their long-term performance usually disappoints. High quality shingles from Owens Corning provide exceptional value through their longevity, durability, insulation, and warranty protection.
Your home deserves roofing materials that can withstand Central Maryland’s changing weather. Owens Corning shingles offer proven performance backed by industry leading technology. Paired with professional installation from Innovative Home Improvements, you’ll receive a roof designed for decades of reliable service.
If you’re considering a roof replacement or are simply curious about upgrading your shingles, please get in touch with our team. At Innovative Home Improvements, we’re happy to discuss options, perform inspections, and provide clear, detailed estimates. Trust our decades of experience to guide you toward the ideal roofing solution for your home.
