Asphalt Shingles

Shingle roofing in the state of Maine is the most widely used roofing material. It’s also quite popular in New England and most of the United States, and for good reasons. Shingles are very durable and come in a variety of styles and prices. Three tab shingles seem to be fading out as architectural shingles give the appearance of wood, slate and other roofing styles. Along with price asphalt shingles have a manufacturer’s warranty from 20 to 50 years.

Fiberglass shingles are made with a special type of glass-fiber reinforcing surface underneath that’s made to the shape of the shingle. The top is then covered with asphalt, containing mineral fillers. The fiberglass is not waterproof on its own. Its purpose is to hold it together. The asphalt is what helps to make the fiberglass shingle waterproof without sticking to the mat. This is why fillers are used.

The asphalt fillers cling to the fiberglass and then the asphalt and fiberglass work together to fill all of the voids and microscopic holes to make it waterproof. After this procedure, an adhesive asphalt is used, then ceramic granules are then added to make what we know as a shingle.

Cedar Shakes

Cedar Shakes are quite popular along Maine’s Coast with its hundreds of miles of winding shore line. Cedar shakes are resistant to the salt air coming off the Atlantic Ocean. Some are natural in color and fade into a natural deep gray. They are used not only for roofing but siding as well. Many coastline communities have this natural look that has beautifully faded into other towns further inland.

Unlike asphalt which seems to have a chemical reaction to the salt air and tend to curl, cedar provides a longer lasting roof along the coastline. Some cedar shingles vary in color and can be bought from the United States or Canada. One way people get a red cedar look is by dipping them in kerosene before installation. It holds its color for years and has a very nice cosmetic look. Cedar shakes are installed under a layer of felt paper or “ice and water shield”.

Metal Roofs

Metal roofs are becoming more popular over the years. There has been a noticeable difference in the neighborhoods from town to town. Considering all things, metal roofs are not that much more than a standard architectural shingled roof. They come in a variety of colors and provide a maintenance free roof. Depending on the application, or contractor, you can get a seamless metal roof system installed too. Metal roofs are also fire proof and the pre-finished paint is resistant to rust.

Not only do metal roofs give you a maintenance free roof but they are great for Maine’s winters. They can help to prevent injury, due to shoveling off the accumulating weight, produced by the snow. Most of the snow will slide off by itself or with a little help from a roof rake. The only drawback is, sometimes it all comes off when you least expect it. Metal roofs can also be installed over a shingled roof, therefore saving money by not having to strip the old roof off. Metal roofs in Maine are a growing trend and one that will likely continue.

For all of your roofing needs in Maine, give Just Roofing a call at (207) 854-3460