Shingles for Garages: Advantages, Uses, Installation Guide and Calculating Shingles Needed for a 24x24 Garage
Shingles are a popular roofing material used for both residential and commercial buildings. Their versatility, durability, and aesthetic appeal have made them a top choice for homeowners, and they are equally well-suited for garages. In this article, we will explore the uses and advantages of shingles, delve into why they are a great roofing option for garages, and provide a step-by-step guide to calculating the number of shingles needed for a standard 24x24 garage.
1. What are Shingles?
Shingles are roofing materials typically made from asphalt, wood, slate, metal, or composite materials. They come in various shapes, sizes, and colours, offering homeowners an array of options to complement the overall architectural style of their properties.
Advantages of Shingles
1. Affordability: One of the primary advantages of shingles is their cost-effectiveness compared to other roofing materials like slate or metal. Asphalt shingles, in particular, are widely preferred for their relatively low price, making them a budget-friendly choice.
2. Versatility: Shingles are available in a wide range of styles, textures, and colours, enabling homeowners to match them to their specific design preferences. Whether you want a rustic, classic, or modern look, there are shingles to suit every taste.
3. Durability: It is important to choose shingles of high quality in order to be able to resist harsh weather conditions such as heavy rain, strong winds, and even hail. Properly installed and maintained shingles can last for several decades, making them a long-lasting roofing solution.
4. Easy Installation: It is relatively easy to install shingles, which means labour costs can be reduced during the construction or repair of the roof.
5. Lightweight: Shingles are lightweight compared to some other roofing materials, which places less stress on the underlying structure of the building.
6. Repairability: In case of damage, individual shingles can be easily replaced, allowing for cost-effective and straightforward repairs.
7. Energy Efficiency: Certain types of shingles, such as reflective or energy-efficient variants, can help improve a building's energy efficiency by reducing heat absorption.
Disadvantages of Shingles
1. Lifespan: As durable as they are, shingles have a shorter lifespan than some other roofing materials like metal or slate. Depending on the quality of the shingles and environmental factors, they may last anywhere from 15 to 30 years. This shorter lifespan means that they might need replacement sooner, leading to additional costs down the line.
2. Vulnerability to Extreme Weather: While shingles can handle regular weather conditions, they are more susceptible to damage during extreme weather events such as hurricanes, severe storms, and heavy hail. High winds can lift or dislodge shingles, and large hailstones can cause cracks or dents.
3. Maintenance Requirements: Shingles, especially asphalt ones, require periodic maintenance to ensure they remain in good condition. Regular inspections are necessary to identify and address any damaged or missing shingles. Additionally, shingles might need occasional cleaning to prevent the growth of moss, algae, or mould.
4. Environmental Impact: Most shingles are made from asphalt, a petroleum-based product. There can be an environmental impact associated with the production and disposal of asphalt shingles.Moreover, asphalt shingles contribute to the urban heat island effect due to their ability to absorb and retain heat.
5. Limited Color Retention: Over time, the colour of shingles can fade due to exposure to sunlight and weather elements. While this might not affect the functionality of the shingles, it can impact the aesthetics of the roof.
6. Installation Challenges: While shingles are generally easy to install, achieving a proper and professional installation requires skill and experience. Improper installation can lead to issues such as leaks, premature wear, and decreased overall durability.
7. Noise: In certain weather conditions, such as heavy rain or hail, shingles can produce more noise compared to other roofing materials. This might not be a significant concern for garages, but it is worth considering in residential settings.
2. Uses of Shingles
Shingles are primarily used for residential roofing, but their applications extend to various structures, including commercial buildings, sheds, and, notably, garages.
1. Residential Roofing: As mentioned earlier, shingles are a popular choice for residential properties due to their cost-effectiveness and aesthetic appeal.
2. Commercial Roofing: Some commercial buildings also opt for shingle roofing, especially if they want to achieve a particular architectural style or need a cost-efficient solution.
3. Sheds and Outbuildings: Shingles are commonly used to roof sheds and other small outbuildings due to their ease of installation and affordability.
4. Garages: Shingles are an excellent choice for garage roofing due to their various advantages, which we will explore in the following section.
3. Why Use Shingles in Garages?
Garages serve as essential spaces for protecting vehicles, equipment, and other belongings from the elements. Choosing the right roofing material for your garage is crucial, and shingles offer numerous benefits that make them an ideal option.
1. Aesthetics: Shingles enhance the appearance of a garage, making it look more appealing and visually cohesive with the main house, especially when they match the home's roofing.
2. Protection: Shingles provide excellent protection against rain, snow, and other weather elements, ensuring that your vehicles and belongings remain dry and secure inside the garage.
3. Affordability: As garages are often secondary structures, using high-end roofing materials like slate or metal might be unnecessary. Shingles offer a cost-effective solution without compromising on quality.
4. Easy Repairs: In the event of damage due to storm or wear, repairing or replacing individual shingles is relatively simple and inexpensive.
5. Longevity: Good-quality shingles can last for several decades, providing long-lasting protection for your garage.
6. Fire Resistance: Asphalt shingles have fire-resistant properties, adding an extra layer of safety to your garage.
4. Calculating Shingles Needed for a 24x24 Garage
Before purchasing shingles for your 24x24 garage, you need to calculate the number of shingles required. You can follow this step-by-step guide to complete the task:
Step 1: Determine the Type of Shingles
Choose the type of shingles you want to use for your garage. Asphalt shingles are the most common and economical choice for garages.
Step 2: Measure the Roof
Measure the length and width of one side of the roof. In this case, the garage measures 24 feet by 24 feet (or 288 square feet per side).
Step 3: Account for Roof Slope
If your garage has a sloped roof, you will need to account for the slope factor when calculating the total surface area. The slope factor can be calculated by multiplying the slope by itself. For example, a 4/12 pitch has a slope factor of 1.16 (1.08 x 1.08).
Step 4: Calculate the Total Surface Area
To find the total surface area of your garage roof, multiply the measured area of one side by the slope factor. For example, 288 sq. ft. x 1.16 = 334.08 sq. ft.
Step 5: Shingle Coverage Area
Check the packaging or specifications of the shingles you plan to use for their coverage area per bundle. This information will be given in square feet.
Step 6: Calculate Shingles Needed
Divide the total surface area of the garage roof by the shingle coverage area per bundle to find out how many bundles you need. Always round up to the nearest whole number to ensure you have enough shingles for any wastage or future repairs.
To learn more, watch the following video tutorial.
Video Source: DaveOTech
Conclusion
Shingles are an excellent roofing choice for garages due to their affordability, durability, and aesthetic appeal. They offer protection from the elements and can enhance the overall appearance of the garage.
When opting for shingles in a 24x24 garage, ensure you calculate the number of shingles needed accurately. By measuring the roof, accounting for the slope, and calculating the shingle coverage area, you can determine the right amount of shingles required for your garage project. Proper installation and regular maintenance will help maximize the benefits of shingles while mitigating their disadvantages, making them a practical and visually appealing roofing choice for your garage.
