A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Best Roof for Your Home: Asphalt Shingles

Having a high-quality roof on your home is essential for protecting you and your family from the elements, as well as increasing the overall value of your home. When considering a roof material for your home, it is important to understand the different types of materials available and how to choose the best one for your home. 


In this blog post, we will discuss one popular roof material option, asphalt shingles, and their many benefits. Asphalt shingles come in a variety of styles, colors, and designs, making them a great option for giving your home an attractive and unique look. Additionally, they are relatively lightweight and easy to install, meaning you can get your new roof in place quickly and at a low cost. 


At G.Helms Construction, we specialize in the installation of asphalt shingles for the Starksboro, VT area, drawing from the expertise of our staff and utilizing the highest quality materials available. We are committed to providing the best results possible and ensuring that you have a durable and attractive roof that will look great and perform optimally for many years to come. Continue reading to learn more about asphalt shingles and the many benefits they bring.

What are Asphalt Shingles?

Asphalt shingles are a popular roofing material made from organic paper and asphalt that is laminated together using ceramic granules. They are available in an array of colors and styles, allowing you to customize your roof. With asphalt shingles, you have the freedom to express yourself and curate a unique and beautiful exterior.


Aside from their aesthetically pleasing quality, asphalt shingles are incredibly durable and can withstand extreme temperatures, moisture, and wind-driven rain. Because of this, they are the most popular roofing option in the United States. They are inexpensive and require little maintenance, making them an ideal option for those looking to install a new roof or replace an existing one. Additionally, asphalt shingles come with a warranty, allowing you to rest assured knowing that you’ve invested in a long-lasting and reliable roofing solution. To ensure the best quality installation, it is always smart to have asphalt shingle roofing installed by a professional. So make sure to speak to a professional about asphalt shingle roofing for your next project to take advantage of its many benefits.

Why Asphalt Shingles are an Ideal Choice for Starksboro, VT

Asphalt shingles are a great choice for homeowners in Starksboro, VT as they offer several benefits. Here are some reasons why you should consider asphalt shingles:


  • Long Lasting: Asphalt shingles are an incredibly reliable, tough, and durable roofing material, offering long-term protection to your home. They are one of the most common types of roofing materials used on homes and businesses, making them a great choice for most climates. With proper maintenance, asphalt shingles can last up to 30 years or more and protect your home from whatever mother nature brings.


  • Cost-Effective: Asphalt shingles are one of the most cost-effective roof materials available, making them an ideal option for those who are looking for a budget-friendly solution. This type of roofing material is much less expensive than slate or tile, making it accessible to a wide range of people. 


  • Versatility: Asphalt shingles are a great choice for many homes because they offer a wide array of colors and styles. From traditional grays and browns to vibrant reds and blues, you can easily customize your roof's appearance to fit the look of your house and your individual style. You can choose to add shingles of the same color for a classic look, or mix and match different shades to create a unique and eye-catching design.


  • Low Maintenance: Asphalt shingles are a very low-maintenance roofing option that doesn’t require much work to keep them looking their best. Occasional touch-ups may be necessary to maintain their aesthetic appeal, but these can usually be done quickly and easily. In addition, these shingles can be easily cleaned with a gentle detergent and a soft-bristled brush or with a pressure washer in more severe cases. 


  • Fire Resistant: Asphalt shingles provide additional fire protection for homes due to the asphalt sealant and ceramic granules layered onto the shingles. The asphalt sealant provides a barrier against fire, while the ceramic granules act as insulators that absorb and deflect heat. These materials increase the fire resistance of the shingle, thus providing an extra layer of protection to your home.


  • Lightweight: Asphalt shingles are an ideal choice for roofing due to their lightweight nature. They won't add any additional weight to the structure of your home and will provide an effective layer of protection from the elements. Asphalt shingles are also simple and easy to install and cost-effective.


  • Environmentally Friendly: Asphalt shingles are an extremely eco-friendly choice - not only because they are often made from recycled materials, such as slate, bitumen, and adhesives, but also because they require less energy to produce than other roofing materials. Their low cost and long lifespan make them a great investment environmentally and financially.


  • Good Insulator: Asphalt shingles are both an aesthetically pleasing and energy-efficient investment for any home. Not only do they improve the overall look and value of the property, but they also help keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. This ultimately leads to a much more efficient energy bill that will help you save money in the long run.


  • Wind Resistance: Asphalt shingles are made to be highly durable and are designed specifically to hold up against strong winds. They are built to offer protection from winds up to 110 miles per hour, meaning that you won't need to worry about your roof being torn away from your home during a storm.

Asphalt shingles are increasingly being chosen by homeowners in the Starksboro, VT area as an ideal roofing material, due to their many benefits. Among these benefits are durability, cost-effectiveness, versatility, and low maintenance requirements. Furthermore, asphalt shingles are not only strong and durable but they also look aesthetically pleasing. Asphalt shingles are available in a variety of colors and textures, which makes them a great choice for those looking to match their home’s exterior. 


If you reside in the Starksboro, VT area and are looking for quality asphalt shingle installation and repair services, G.Helms Construction is a perfect choice. Our exceptional team of professionals has expertise in asphalt shingles and has experience in installation and repair work. We guarantee our clients great results, as the quality of our work is held to the highest of standards. Feel free to reach out to us at (802) 989-2783 to speak with us about your roofing project. We look forward to hearing from you and helping make your roofing dreams a reality.

Why Slate Roofs Are a Fantastic Choice for Homeowners Who Value Quality and Longevity

March 24, 2023
We’ve all been there – home renovation can feel like a never-ending battle. The structural decisions alone can be overwhelming, with so many pros and cons attached to each option that understanding which solution to choose can be daunting. If a roof is in your home renovation plans, you may have heard of slate roofing – but what makes it so special compared to other types of roofing? Allow us to explain. Slate roofing, also known as slate tiles or slates, is a roofing material made from natural stone that is known to outlast traditional roofing materials by centuries. The stones are split by hand into thin, flat pieces that are used to roof structures. While this roofing solution has been a classic choice for hundreds of years, its modern popularity has seen a surge in the past few decades – inspiring both architects and homeowners to notice its impressive features.

Elevate Exteriors through Window Trim and Enhance Your Property's Visuals

February 8, 2023
Window trim is an easy and cost-effective way to improve the look and feel of your property. Utilizing the element allows you to breathe new life into your home or business, adding a modern and elegant look that can really set it apart from the rest. It’s an excellent way to add both style and charm that can be used for both decorating and architectural improvements. By selecting the right type, size, and color of window trim, you can make it work for any style of building. Whether you’re looking for a decorative finish, a more traditional look, or a more contemporary style, there are window trim options that can suit your desired aesthetic. Not sure what kind of window trim would best suit your property? Read this post to find out the options available and get tips on how to use them to improve your home or business.

Chimney Repairs and Energy Efficiency: How to Keep Your Home Warm and Save on Energy Costs

January 18, 2023
Are you looking for ways to keep your home warm, and efficient, and save on energy costs? Chimney repairs are an important step in improving the energy efficiency of your home. In this blog post, we'll discuss how chimney repairs can help ensure that your home is properly insulated and functioning efficiently while also saving you money on energy bills. We'll also explore some tips for selecting the right materials and skilled professionals to help you complete a successful repair. Finally, we'll outline the steps required for a safe and effective chimney repair. So read on to learn more about how you can keep your home warm and save money!

How to Identify and Prevent Roof Fascia Damage: An Essential Guide for Homeowners

January 11, 2023
The fascia board is an important architectural feature placed at the edge of a house’s roof. Its main role is to protect the structural integrity of the home, but it can suffer damage due to a variety of causes. Extreme weather such as heavy rain, wind, and hail can damage roofing surfaces and the fascia board. Similarly, everyday wear and tear can chip and crack the board, decreasing its ability to protect the roof against further damage. In addition, improper installation or poor maintenance of the fascia board can invite all sorts of unwanted issues. So, what can be done to reduce the likelihood of costly repairs in the long term? As a homeowner, it's important to practice proper maintenance of your fascia board and inspect it routinely. By conducting regular inspections, especially after harsh weather, you’ll be able to quickly identify and repair any issues before they become bigger problems. Additionally, seeking the help of experienced and reputable contractors to install the fascia board and inspect the boards for signs of damage and wear is also recommended. Doing these things can help maximize your roof’s potential for lasting protection. Read on to learn more about the causes of roof fascia damage and how you can reduce the likelihood of costly repairs in the long term.

Making Sure Your House Is Competent: Benefits of Professional Siding Replacement

January 4, 2023
Siding is the most visible exterior feature of a home, which makes it one of the most integral components of a home’s overall structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. Exploring the benefits that professional siding replacement can bring to both existing and new construction projects is essential for homeowners looking to improve their properties. Not only does siding improve a residence’s overall visual impact, but it provides added protection against the elements and can drastically raise a property’s value over time. This blog post will explore the advantages that professional siding replacement can offer current and prospective homebuyers alike. From improving energy efficiency to providing strong protection against climate elements and enhancing the home’s overall aesthetics, there are many different benefits that professional siding replacements can offer. Investing in siding replacement is not only a great way to ensure a higher resale value in the short term, but it also provides homes with decades of regular, maintenance-free wear. Keep reading to learn 8 of the benefits and advantages of having a professional siding installation.

Tackling the Top Causes of Roof Damage

December 30, 2022
Nobody likes to have unexpected repairs to deal with, especially when it comes to the roof over their head. Keeping your roof up to snuff can be hard when you don’t know what’s causing the damage. That's why we’re here to tell you the top causes of roof damage. Knowing the common issues can help you make the most cost-effective decisions for your roof health and give you peace of mind knowing your roof is on the right track. Roofs are one of the essential elements of any home. They protect the structure, its occupants, and the belongings inside from all kinds of weather-related pressures and forces. However, if not regularly maintained and inspected, even the best roof can eventually succumb to the elements and wear out. It’s important to know what could cause a roof to deteriorate in order to prevent costly repairs and extensive damage. In this blog, we’ll be discussing the top most common causes of roof damage.

The Differences between DIY and Professional Chimney Repair: What You Need to Know

December 22, 2022
A properly functioning chimney is an essential part of keeping your home safe, ensuring gases and smoke are released without creating a hazardous environment. It’s important to ensure any issues are addressed and repaired quickly, in order to ensure your safety and the safety of your family. Anytime you encounter an issue with your chimney, you may feel tempted to take on the repairs yourself to save money. However, in some circumstances, a professional repair is always a better option. It’s important to know the difference in order to ensure your chimney is repaired properly and your family stays safe. When it comes to chimney repair and maintenance, there are a lot of factors that come into play. Not only is it dangerous to perform the repairs yourself if you don’t have the right knowledge or skill level, but some of the tools and supplies needed can be more expensive to purchase than it would be to hire a professional. However, a professional will have access to the right supplies, and tools, and have the know-how needed to address the issue safely and efficiently. In this article, you will learn about the differences between DIY and professional chimney repair, and why a professional repair is always best.