Every roof has to start somewhere, and that somewhere is at the appropriately named starter shingle (also called starter strip). Starter shingles are the initial shingle products installed on the roof, just before the first course of the finish shingles, which will comprise the visible parts of the roof.
Alexandria, La Roofing Solutions: Expert Residential and Commercial Roofing Services
Alexandria, La Roofing Solutions: Expert Residential and Commercial Roofing Services
Asbestos Removal, Slate, Metal, and Asphalt Shingle Roofing Experts
Why Alexandria, Louisiana Needs Expert Roofing Services:
Mix of hot summers and occasional cold snaps can stress roofing materials.
Increased chance of tornado damage necessitates sturdy roofing solutions.
Growing suburban areas create demand for new residential roofing installations.
Expanding business districts require expert commercial roofing services, including TPO and Mod-Bit.
Types of Commercial Materials
Mod-Bit
Modified bitumen (mod bit) roofing is a popular choice for flat or low-slope roofs, known for its durability, versatility, and ease of installation. It is a type of asphalt-based roofing system that incorporates polymer modifiers to enhance its performance.
TPO
Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) roofing is a single-ply roofing membrane widely used in commercial and industrial applications due to its excellent performance characteristics and cost-effectiveness. TPO is known for its energy efficiency, durability, and ease of installation.
Types of Mod-Bit
Modified Bitumen (Mod Bit)
SBS (Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene)
– Adds rubber-like flexibility to the asphalt, enhancing its ability to withstand temperature variations.
– Often installed with cold adhesive or hot asphalt, but can also be torch-applied.
APP (Atactic Polypropylene)
– Adds plastic-like properties to the asphalt, improving its resistance to UV radiation and high temperatures.
– Typically installed using a torch to melt the material and bond it to the roof surface.
1. Durability: Modified bitumen is highly resistant to weathering, UV radiation, and physical damage, making it suitable for various climates.
2. Flexibility: The polymer modification improves flexibility, allowing the material to expand and contract with temperature changes without cracking.
3. Waterproofing: Provides excellent waterproofing properties, ensuring a watertight seal and protecting the building from leaks.
4. Ease of Installation: Can be installed using different methods, such as torch-applied, cold-applied, self-adhered, or hot-mopped, offering versatility in application.
5. Maintenance: Generally low-maintenance, requiring regular inspections and minor repairs to ensure longevity.
1. Torch-Applied: Involves heating the underside of the membrane with a torch to melt the bitumen and adhere it to the roof surface.
2. Cold-Applied: Utilizes adhesive products to bond the membrane to the roof without the need for heat.
3. Self-Adhered: Features a peel-and-stick application method, simplifying installation and reducing the risk of fire hazards.
4. Hot-Mopped: Uses hot asphalt to adhere the membrane, similar to traditional built-up roofing systems.
1. Base Sheet: The initial layer, often mechanically fastened or adhered to the roof deck.
2. Ply Sheets: Multiple layers of reinforced modified bitumen sheets, providing strength and durability.
3. Cap Sheet: The top layer, typically granule-surfaced to provide UV protection and aesthetic appeal.
4. Flashing: Critical components around roof penetrations and edges to ensure a watertight seal.
1. Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of applications, including commercial, industrial, and residential buildings.
2. Energy Efficiency: Available in reflective “cool roof” formulations that reduce heat absorption and lower cooling costs.
3. Cost-Effective: Offers a good balance of performance and cost, making it an economical choice for flat or low-slope roofs.
4. Repairability: Damage can often be repaired without the need for complete roof replacement, extending the roof’s lifespan.
– Regular inspections to check for signs of wear, damage, or ponding water.
– Clearing debris from the roof surface and drainage systems to prevent water accumulation.
– Promptly addressing minor issues, such as small tears or blisters, to prevent more significant damage.
TPO
Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO)
- Energy Efficiency: TPO roofing is highly reflective, which helps reduce heat absorption and lowers cooling costs. This makes it an attractive option for “cool roof” applications.
- Durability: TPO membranes are resistant to UV radiation, chemical exposure, and punctures, offering long-term durability and protection.
- Seam Strength: The heat-welded seams of TPO are typically stronger than the material itself, providing excellent waterproofing and reducing the risk of leaks.
- Flexibility: TPO remains flexible in both hot and cold temperatures, accommodating building movement and thermal expansion without cracking.
- Eco-Friendly: TPO roofing is often recyclable, contributing to reduced environmental impact.
- Mechanically Attached: The membrane is fastened to the roof deck using screws and plates, allowing for quick and easy installation.
- Fully Adhered: The membrane is bonded to the substrate using adhesive, providing a smooth appearance and enhanced wind uplift resistance.
- Ballasted: The membrane is held in place by a layer of ballast, such as river rock or pavers, reducing the need for fasteners or adhesives.
- TPO Membrane: The primary waterproofing layer, available in various thicknesses (typically 45 to 80 mils). It is usually white or light-colored for high reflectivity.
- Insulation: Installed beneath the membrane to improve energy efficiency and provide a stable substrate.
- Cover Board: A rigid layer placed over the insulation to protect it and provide a smooth surface for the TPO membrane.
- Fasteners and Adhesives: Used to secure the membrane to the roof deck or insulation.
- Flashing: Ensures watertightness around roof penetrations and edges.
- Cost-Effective: TPO roofing offers a good balance of performance and affordability, making it a popular choice for many building types.
- Ease of Installation: Available in wide rolls, TPO membranes can be quickly installed, reducing labor costs and installation time.
- Reflectivity: High reflectivity helps lower building cooling costs and contributes to energy savings.
- Low Maintenance: TPO roofs require minimal maintenance, with periodic inspections and cleaning to ensure long-term performance.
- Versatility: Suitable for various roof designs, including flat, low-slope, and some steep-slope applications.
- Regular Inspections: Conduct periodic inspections to check for signs of damage, such as punctures, tears, or seam issues.
- Cleaning: Clean the membrane surface to remove dirt, debris, and algae, which can affect reflectivity and performance.
- Repairs: Address any minor issues promptly to prevent them from developing into more significant problems. Heat welding can be used to repair damaged areas effectively.
Residential Roofing

The Correct Application Leads To Warranties Workmanship
To supplement industry and manufacturers standards, we diligently incorporate top-notch installation methodologies, referred to as “Code Plus” installation techniques. We conduct extensive onboarding training and monitor installation projects closely to insure reinforcement of these practices with our workforce. Utilizing our evolving and up-to-date internal education system, our staff is trained from the beginning in all components of the roof and manufacturer specifications. Our commitment to excellence in both quality and skilled work allows Shingle Solutions to offer a full range of manufacturer warranty options from all major manufacturers.







Starter shingles
Starter shingles
Ice & Water Shield
Ice & Water Shield
Ice & Water Shield protects roofs from leaks. It is installed under the felt in valleys and along edges. In northern states, it is required for protection against ice dams.
Synthetic Underlayment
Synthetic Underlayment
Synthetic underlayment (formerly roofing felt), prevents rain squalls or water from penetrating beneath the shingles and causing roof decking rot. Synthetic underlayment is nailed to the roof decking. Since this material is so versatile and durable, Shingle Solutions uses Synthetic Underlayment as a tarp replacement, when needed.
Shingles
Shingles
Older homes have 3 tab shingles, but newer homes now have dimensional or architectural shingles. In general, these shingles provide a wind resistance of 80 – 120 mph winds and are about 2x heavier than 3 tab shingles. These shingles are preferred by Shingle Solutions because of their better quality and longer warranty.
Ventilation Systems
Ventilation Systems
Ridge Vents OR Turbine Vents (Whirlybirds) are installed to allow heat to escape and properly ventilate the roof. If your roof has both, your roof was most likely improperly installed.
Hip & Ridge Shingles
Hip & Ridge Shingles
Hip and ridge cap shingles are the new industry gold standard. This type of shingle is a better looking, higher-quality, more wind-resistant product as compared to the older 3 tab shingle type.
Your dream roof is only a decision away! Once you decide that your roof needs replacing, look no further than Shingle Solutions to walk you through the selection process. If it is manufactured, we will find a way to provide it. Afterall, happy homeowner = happy roofer!
Residential Roofing Materials
Shingles
Asphalt shingles are a popular roofing material widely used in residential construction due to their affordability, ease of installation, and versatility. Composed of a base material, typically fiberglass or organic mat, coated with asphalt and embedded with granules, these shingles offer durability and weather resistance.
Metal
Metal roofing is an increasingly popular choice for both residential and commercial buildings, known for its durability, longevity, and modern aesthetic. Made from various types of metals such as steel, aluminum, copper, and zinc, metal roofs offer a range of styles and finishes to complement different architectural designs.
Slate
Slate roofing is a premium roofing material known for its natural beauty, exceptional durability, and long lifespan. Made from natural stone, slate tiles provide a distinctive, elegant look that enhances the architectural appeal of both traditional and contemporary buildings.
Types of Asphalt Shingles
Three-tab Shingles
The most basic and economical type, featuring a flat appearance with cut-outs to give the illusion of three separate pieces.
Architectural (Dimensional) Shingles
Thicker and more durable than three-tab shingles, these have a layered, dimensional look that adds depth and character to the roof.
Luxury Shingles
Designed to emulate the appearance of high-end materials like slate, providing enhanced aesthetics and performance.
1. Affordability: Asphalt shingles are cost-effective, making them an attractive option for homeowners.
2. Ease of Installation: Their lightweight nature and design allow for straightforward installation, reducing labor costs.
3. Variety: Available in numerous colors, styles, and textures, asphalt shingles can mimic more expensive roofing materials like slate or wood shakes.
4. Durability: Resistant to wind, fire, and algae, high-quality asphalt shingles can last 20-30 years or more with proper maintenance.
5. Energy Efficiency: Reflective coatings on some shingles help reduce heat absorption, contributing to energy savings.
Installation involves layering shingles from the bottom edge of the roof upwards, overlapping to create a watertight seal. Proper ventilation and underlayment are crucial to prevent moisture buildup and extend the roof’s lifespan. Regular maintenance includes inspections, cleaning gutters, and replacing damaged shingles to ensure long-term performance.
Types of Metal Roofing
Standing Seam
Features vertical panels with raised seams that interlock to provide a sleek, modern look and excellent weather tightness.
Metal Shingles
Designed to mimic the appearance of traditional shingles, slate, or tile, offering versatility in design while maintaining the benefits of metal.
Metal Tiles
Provide the aesthetic of traditional clay or concrete tiles with the durability and lightweight nature of metal.
Corrugated Metal
Recognized for its wavy pattern, this type is commonly used in agricultural and industrial applications but is also gaining popularity in residential settings for its unique look.
1. Durability: Metal roofs can withstand harsh weather conditions, including heavy snow, rain, high winds, and hail. They are resistant to cracking, shrinking, and eroding, providing reliable protection.
2. Longevity: With proper installation and maintenance, metal roofs can last 40-70 years, significantly longer than traditional asphalt shingles.
3. Energy Efficiency: Reflective coatings on metal roofs reduce heat absorption, helping to keep buildings cooler in the summer and lowering energy costs.
4. Environmental Friendliness: Metal roofing is often made from recycled materials and is fully recyclable at the end of its life, making it a sustainable option.
5. Fire Resistance: Metal roofs are non-combustible and have a Class A fire rating, the highest level of fire resistance.
6. Lightweight: Compared to other roofing materials, metal is lightweight, which reduces the structural load on buildings and can simplify installation.
Installation of metal roofing requires specialized tools and expertise to ensure proper fitting and sealing. Metal panels or shingles are typically fastened with screws, and seams are sealed to prevent leaks. Underlayment and insulation are important to enhance performance and comfort.
Maintenance is relatively minimal compared to other roofing materials. Regular inspections to check for loose or damaged panels, cleaning debris from gutters, and ensuring that protective coatings are intact can help maximize the roof’s lifespan.
Types of Slate Roofing
Natural Slate
Quarried from natural stone, available in a range of colors such as gray, black, green, purple, and red. Each tile has unique veining and texture.
Synthetic Slate
Made from composite materials designed to mimic the appearance of natural slate. These offer a lighter and more cost-effective alternative while providing similar aesthetics.
1. Aesthetic Appeal: Slate roofs are highly regarded for their timeless and sophisticated appearance, available in various colors and textures to complement different architectural styles.
2. Durability: Slate is one of the most durable roofing materials, capable of withstanding extreme weather conditions, including heavy snow, rain, wind, and hail.
3. Longevity: Properly installed and maintained slate roofs can last over 100 years, significantly outlasting other roofing materials.
4. Fire Resistance: Natural stone is non-combustible, providing excellent fire resistance and enhancing building safety.
5. Low Maintenance: Slate roofs require minimal maintenance due to their resistance to mold, mildew, and insect damage.
6. Environmental Friendliness: Slate is a natural material with a low environmental impact. Its long lifespan reduces the need for frequent replacements, minimizing waste.
Slate roofing requires skilled craftsmanship and specialized techniques to ensure proper placement and longevity. Tiles are typically installed using copper or stainless-steel nails to prevent rust and corrosion. A solid roof deck and appropriate underlayment are essential to support the weight of the slate and prevent water infiltration.
Cleaning debris from gutters and ensuring proper drainage can prevent water damage. Professional repairs are recommended to address any issues promptly and maintain the roof’s longevity.