Choosing the Best Driftwood Shingle Roof for Your Home
With their rustic, weathered appearance reminiscent of driftwood washed ashore, driftwood shingles offer a unique aesthetic for roofs. If you're considering a new roof for your home, driftwood shingles present an attractive option to explore.
What are Driftwood Shingles?
Driftwood shingles are made to mimic the look of naturally weathered, grayed wood. They have variegated hues in shades of gray, brown, tan, and black that lend a dynamic, coastal vibe to a roofline. The shingles are composed of asphalt or composite materials impregnated with mineral granules in driftwood shades.
Unlike traditional monotonously colored asphalt shingles, driftwood shingles provide unique aesthetic benefits. Their multi-toned, naturally imperfect look lends rustic charm to Craftsman, cottage, and beach house styles. In addition to aesthetic appeal, driftwood shingles offer durability and energy efficiency.
Benefits of Driftwood Shingles
- Attractive, variegated appearance
- Durable - lasting 30-50 years
- Energy efficient due to light color
- Lower cooling costs in summer
- Distinctive look complements certain home styles
Are Driftwood Shingles Right for Your Home?
When weighing driftwood shingles for your particular home, consider the architectural style, climate, and budgetary factors:
Architectural Styles
Driftwood shingles pair exceptionally well with Craftsman, cottage, coastal, and farmhouse designs where a weathered wood roof contributes to rustic curb appeal. They also suit vintage homes in need of roof replacement where preserving original character is key.
Climates
Since their light color reflects heat, driftwood shingles excel in warmer climates where cooling efficiency is a priority. In cooler climates, their poor heat absorption may be a drawback.
Budget
Driftwood shingles are more expensive upfront than traditional asphalt, but pay off long-term due to their longevity and energy savings. Higher resale value also offsets initial costs. Evaluate whether your budget allows for a higher initial investment.
Top Driftwood Shingle Brands
If you decide driftwood shingles suit your home, research reputable brands offering quality and variety:
Oakridge Shingles
Known for durability and authentic driftwood look. Offered in a wide selection of grays, browns, and woodsy hues. Cost is $450-$750 per square installed.
Timberline HD
A top brand choice with "streaked" appearance in natural, weathered colors. Costs around $375-$850 per square installed.
Epoch Composite
Composite rather than asphalt, providing extreme longevity. On par cost-wise with other high-end brands at $550-$950 per square installed.
Installation Process and Considerations
Proper installation is key to maximizing the lifespan and performance of any roof, and driftwood shingles are no exception. Here are important factors to consider:
Hiring a Professional
Due to their weight, driftwood shingles should be installed by an experienced roofing contractor rather than DIY. Look for expertise specific to wood and composite roofing.
Prepping the Roof Deck
The roof deck must be inspected for issues and properly waterproofed per manufacturer specifications before shingle installation.
Underlayment
Synthetic underlayment is recommended over roofing felt for better moisture protection.
Nail Type
Driftwood shingles require stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanized nails to prevent corrosion and maintain the roof's integrity.
Flashing Details
Proper flashing installation around joints, vents, and valleys is crucial to prevent leakage and moisture damage.
Maintenance and Care
While durable, driftwood shingles do require some periodic maintenance:
- Annual inspections to spot any wind damage or warped shingles
- Regular cleaning to remove moss and debris
- Re-coating sealant every 7-10 years
- Immediately replacing cracked, loose or blown-off shingles
Design Options to Customize Your Roof
Beyond choosing colors and patterns, you can further customize the look of driftwood shingles:
Mix and Match
Use driftwood shingles on visible roof surfaces, while choosing a more affordable option for rear/less visible sections. Or, combine driftwood shingles with metal or slate.
Decorative Elements
Consider copper flashing for enhanced aesthetics. Decorative vents and finials can complement the rustic vibe.
Shingle Shape and Pattern
Alternate between waved and staggered edge placement. Geometric patterns like diamond also add flair.
While driftwood shingles cost more upfront, their benefits outweigh the difference:
- Higher durability equates to cost per year
- Energy savings compared to dark asphalt shingles
- Increased resale value of home
Overall, driftwood shingles offer captivating curb appeal and long-lasting performance. Evaluate all factors carefully to determine if they are the right fit for your home.