The Visual Appeal and Practicality of Hexagonal Shingles

The Unique Appeal of Hexagonal Shingles

When it comes to roofing materials, most homes traditionally opt for the standard rectangular asphalt shingle. While these shingles certainly get the job done, they can also look rather boring and uniform. If you're looking to give your roof a more unique and eye-catching look, hexagonal shingles offer a great alternative.

What are Hexagonal Shingles?

As the name suggests, hexagonal shingles are shingles cut into the shape of a hexagon, featuring six equal sides and angles. Unlike the flat, overlapping look of square shingles, the angled shape of hexagonal shingles allows them to resemble scales or petals when installed on a roof. This gives them a more organic and visually appealing look compared to traditional shingles.

Benefits of Hex Shingles

There are several major benefits that make hexagonal shingles worth considering for your roof:

• Unique aesthetic - The unusual shape immediately grabs attention and stands out.
• Natural appearance - The shingles resemble flower petals or scales, complementing landscaping.
• Energy efficiency - The gaps between shingles promote air circulation.
• Weather resistance - Overlapping and interlocking design sheds water easily.
• Durability - Made to withstand extreme weather changes without cracking or deforming.
• Customization - Available in wide range of colors to match your home's style.

Types of Hexagonal Shingles

Hex shingles can be made out of various materials, each offering their own benefits:

Asphalt

The most affordable option, asphalt hexagonal shingles are durable, waterproof, and easy to install. They come in a medley of colors, shapes, textures and are fire resistant.

Metal

Hexagonal metal shingles, such as steel, copper or aluminum, have an extremely long lifespan. They enhance energy efficiency, are eco-friendly, and resistant to fire and insect damage. However, they also come with a higher upfront cost.

Cedar/Shake

Made of naturally rot-resistant cedar wood, these hexagonal shingles have a gorgeous look and aroma. They offer good insulation and can handle all weather conditions once properly treated and maintained.

Composite

Composite hex shingles blend recyclable materials like plastic, rubber, and/or wood pulp fibers. More lightweight than traditional materials and easy to install, they still provide durability and weather resistance.

Installing Hexagonal Shingles

Installing hexagonal shingles takes careful planning, skill, and time. It's generally not a DIY job for amateurs. The unique shape and intricate installation process for interlocking the shingles calls for an experienced professional roofer. They will:

• Calculate the slope, layout, and number of shingles needed for proper coverage.
• Install starter strips and specialty flashing around vents, chimneys etc.
• Precision cut shingles to size and lay them in an overlapping staggered pattern.
• Use nails/screws specially made to handle the hexagon shape without splitting the sides.
• Seal and inspect finished shingles to ensure waterproof, weather-tight roof.

This meticulous process results in a gorgeously dazzling hexagonal shingle roof that will hold up for decades. Any added costs are worthwhile when you consider the boosted curb appeal and resale value they provide your home.

Hexagonal Shingles - An Eye-Catching Choice

Tired of looking at the same old boring shingles on every home? Installing unique hexagonal shingles on your roof ensures your home stands out with a beautifully intricate design. Complementing nature with an organic, scaled appearance, they immediately catch the eye amidst ordinary rectangular shingles. Being extremely durable and energy efficient, they also check off all the practical boxes a homeowner could ask for. For anyone seeking exceptional style merged with outstanding performance, hexagonal shingles are a fantastic alternative roofing option.

FAQs

What are the benefits of hexagonal shingles?

The benefits of hexagonal shingles include: a unique aesthetic, natural scaled appearance, energy efficiency from air circulation between shingles, weather resistance from overlapping design, durability to withstand weathering, and customization from available color options.

What materials can you get hexagon shingles in?

Popular hexagonal shingle materials include: affordable and durable asphalt, long-lasting and eco-friendly metals like steel/copper/aluminum, rot-resistant and attractive cedar wood shakes, and lightweight composite plastic/rubber blends.

How are hexagonal shingles installed?

Proper installation of interlocking hexagonal shingles requires an experienced roofer as the shapes call for careful slope/layout calculation, cutting shingles precisely to size, and using specialty nails to handle the hexagon shape without cracking.

How much do hexagonal shingle roofs cost?

Pricing depends on shingle materials, roof size, accessibility, and labor. While more expensive than standard shingles, increased curb appeal and resale value help offset costs. Many find the visual impact worthwhile for a showpiece roof.