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There’s no single best roofing material for flat roofs, but EPDM is considered an excellent option because it lasts longer than TPO roofing and built-up roofing, and it’s the most adaptive to extreme temperatures and variations in temperature. EPDM can also be highly energy-efficient at both ends of the climate spectrum, with black EPDM helping to reduce heating bills and white EPDM helping to keep your building cool in extreme summer temperatures.

While the terms are often used interchangeably, wood shakes and wood shingles have notable differences, primarily in their manufacturing and appearance. Wood shingles are machine-cut on both sides, resulting in a smooth, thin, and uniform product. In contrast, wood shakes are typically hand-split or sawed on only one side, giving them a more textured, natural, and rustic appearance. Due to these manufacturing differences, shakes are generally thicker, heavier, and less uniform than shingles. They are also more expensive. Homeowners seeking a more rustic aesthetic often choose shakes, while those preferring a more uniform look may opt for shingles. Both are installed in an overlapping pattern to create a durable, weather-resistant roof.

Your homeowners insurance premium may increase if you file a roof claim. Whether your rate goes up, and by how much, depends on several factors. These include your insurance company's policies, your personal claim history, the size of the current claim, and the type of damage. While a single claim after a long period without any may not trigger an increase, frequent claims are more likely to raise your premium. Additionally, insurers might increase rates at renewal due to external factors like changing weather patterns, which are beyond your control.

You can damage your shingles if you use the wrong type of paint on them. You should always use acrylic latex paint specifically formulated for shingles. Other types of paint may trap moisture, which can cause bigger problems like rot and mildew. Considering that roof replacement costs $9,100 on average, it’s definitely best to avoid making this mistake.

Besides using the right paint, remember that painting your shingles will require increased maintenance.