Architectural Shingles
Architectural Shingles | Siding Solutions | Roofing | Charleston
Breathe new life into your Lowcountry home with HEP’s architectural shingles roofing and expert siding solutions. Our Charleston team pairs the classic charm of architectural shingles with cutting-edge moisture barriers, ensuring every roof we install stands up to coastal winds, salty air, and the steamy Carolina sun. We source premium, impact-rated shingles in rich dimensional colors that echo historic Charleston aesthetics while elevating curb appeal and boosting energy efficiency.
Match that timeless roof with flawlessly installed vinyl, fiber-cement, or composite siding that resists warping, fading, and the occasional hurricane gust. HEP craftsmen handle every detail—from precision trim work to hidden fastener systems—so your exterior looks seamless and performs flawlessly. Whether you’re updating a James Island cottage or a Mount Pleasant marsh-front retreat, trust HEP to protect what matters most and make your neighbors do a double-take.
FAQs
What are architectural shingles and how do they differ from traditional 3-tab shingles?
Architectural shingles—also called dimensional or laminate shingles—are a premium asphalt product constructed with multiple layers of fiberglass mat and mineral-surfaced asphalt. Those layers are bonded together to create a thicker, sculpted profile that mimics cedar or slate, adds shadow lines, and boosts curb appeal. Compared with 3-tab shingles, architectural shingles: • weigh roughly 50 % more, giving them greater uplift resistance in coastal winds • carry longer manufacturer warranties (typically 30 years to lifetime vs. 20–25 years) • offer wider color blends and high-definition textures • have higher impact and tear strength, making them less likely to crack during Charleston’s frequent hail and temperature swings. While they cost 15–25 % more than standard 3-tab shingles, the added durability and resale value usually offset the up-front difference.
Are architectural shingles suitable for Charleston’s humid, hurricane-prone climate?
Yes. Most leading brands test their architectural shingles to ASTM D3161 Class F (110 mph) or ASTM D7158 Class H (150 mph) wind ratings, exceeding the 130 mph design wind speed specified in Charleston County’s coastal building code. Their heavier weight, reinforced nailing zones, and self-sealing asphalt strips help them stay put during tropical-storm or hurricane events. Additionally, algae-resistant copper or zinc granules are blended into the surface to stop the black streaks that Charleston’s high humidity can cause. When combined with proper ridge ventilation, these shingles shed heavy rain quickly and keep attic temperatures lower, preventing moisture-related deck rot and mold.
How long can I expect a new architectural shingle roof to last in Charleston?
Service life depends on ventilation, storm exposure, and maintenance, but homeowners in the Lowcountry typically see 25–35 years from a well-installed architectural shingle roof. We use SBS-modified or Scotchgard™ algae-block shingles when requested, which can stretch life expectancy toward the upper end of that range. Annual inspections, prompt shingle repairs after severe storms, and keeping gutters clear of oak and pine debris will maximize longevity.
Can new siding be installed at the same time as my architectural shingle roof replacement?
Absolutely. Coordinating roofing and siding in one project offers several advantages: • One permit and one mobilization reduce overall labor costs. • We can install a continuous weather-resistive barrier (WRB) from the wall plane up to the roof deck, sealing vulnerable wall-to-roof transitions before shingles or siding go on. • Color-matched accessories—fascia, soffit, drip edge, and flashing—are selected together so the exterior looks cohesive. Our crew sequences the work to keep your home weather-tight at all times, typically roofing first, then siding, so rainwater is shed correctly during the process.
Will architectural shingles and insulated siding improve my home’s energy efficiency?
Yes. Architectural shingles with solar-reflective granules can lower roof surface temperatures by 20–30 °F during Charleston’s hot summers, reducing attic heat gain and cutting HVAC run-time. When paired with ridge and soffit ventilation, this can yield energy savings of 5–15 %. For walls, we recommend vinyl or fiber-cement siding installed over 0.5–1 inch foam insulation board or insulated siding panels. This continuous insulation reduces thermal bridging through studs, often adding R-3 to R-5 to the wall assembly and helping interior spaces stay cooler and less humid.
How much do architectural shingle roofing and siding upgrades cost in Charleston, and do you offer financing?
Pricing varies with roof pitch, tear-off layers, and siding material, but local averages are: • Architectural shingle reroof: $4.50–$6.50 per square foot ($9,000–$13,000 for a 2,000 sq ft roof) • Premium vinyl siding with 0.5-in foam backer: $7.00–$9.50 per square foot of wall area • Fiber-cement siding (James Hardie): $9.00–$12.00 per square foot. We provide free, itemized estimates after a site visit. To make the investment manageable, we partner with regional lenders to offer zero-down, low-interest financing up to 120 months, plus we guide you through possible insurance claims and local energy-efficiency rebates.