Several roofing materials are available on the market if you’re planning to build a house or replace an old roof system. You can choose asphalt shingles if you want a cost-effective type, or go for slate or clay if you’re eyeing long-term durability. Depending on your contractor’s roofing services, solar shingles and green roofs are also viable, though expensive options.
Before choosing the best roofing for your home, take the time to weigh the pros and cons of each material. Consider not only your aesthetic taste but also pivotal factors such as your budget costs, house structure, and the climate in your area.
Shingles
As the most common roofing material, composite asphalt shingles are present in almost 90% of American houses. Most homeowners prefer them due to their low price, sturdy structure, and hassle-free installation.
Standard asphalt shingles can last up to 30 years, plus they are recyclable and often turned into pavement. Available styles, such as architectural and three-tab shingles, vary in color and quality. Here’s an overview of this roofing variation:
- Reasonable price
- Accessible in most stores
- Low-maintenance
- Suitable for most climates
- Recyclable
- Color fades over time due to sun exposure
Metal Roofing
Metal sheets and shingles are popular due to their economical price, appealing aesthetic, and versatile look. Though their lifespan varies based on the material and design, most metal roofs typically last up to 80 years.
You can choose from two style options: standing seam and metal shingles. Like shingles, there are advantages and disadvantages to this type of roofing:
- Durable
- Lightweight
- Can imitate the appearance of asphalt, slate, or wood
- Low-maintenance
- Requires soundproofing to reduce noise
- Poor installation can cause warping or ripples
- Requires specialized roofing services
Wood Roofing
Homeowners who prioritize curb appeal may find wood roofing a suitable choice. This material enhances the beauty of most homes, especially evident in Craftsman, Cape Cod, and Tudor styles. Another benefit of this roof type is that it repels insects, particularly the cedar, pine, and redwood variations. Wood roofs can be installed in two ways: shingles or shakes.
In wet climates, wood roofing has a short lifespan due to constant water damage. In areas with dry climates, though, wood roofing can last up to 50 years, but roof treatment may be necessary for fire-prone states like California. Here are other notable features of this material:
- Beautiful aesthetic
- Environmentally-friendly material
- High-maintenance
- Prone to water damage, mildew, mold, and rot
- Treatment with fire retardants and chemical preservatives may be necessary
Clay Tiles
One of the oldest rooftop materials is clay, which dates back to 5,000 years in China. Installation of earthenware tiles is very costly, though its structural resiliency outlasts other roofing variations. Clay roofs are popular in locations with high temperatures, as they are fire-resistant and can withstand strong winds. If you’re eyeing this material for your home, here are some things to take note of:
- High curb appeal
- Low-maintenance
- Natural materials
- Proves interior temperature regulation
- May easily break with heavy impact
- Material’s weight may require extra structural support
Slate Roofing
Much like clay, slate is highly durable and resistant to natural elements. While expensive, this roofing material can withstand extreme temperatures, high winds, and strong impact from hail and falling debris. It is also long-lasting, with a lifespan that reaches 50 to 200 years.
Natural and quarried slate are some roofing options available on the market. If you prefer more affordable choices, you can choose synthetic alternatives such as fiber cement or bituminous tiles. For the most part, natural and synthetic slate share the same pros and cons:
- Extremely durable
- Lasts a long time
- Low-maintenance
- Expensive
- Material’s weight may require extra structural support
Green Roofing
Eco-conscious individuals would enjoy a green or living roof. This system installs a layer of vegetation, such as grass or wildflowers, on your roofing that assists pollinators. Green roofing is also an all-around choice with many benefits, as it absorbs heat, decreases rainwater runoff, and lasts as long as 30 to 50 years. Check out this outline to learn some key features of living roofs:
- Long-lasting
- Helps the environment
- Needs water maintenance and routine gardening
- Weight and water require extra structural support
- Requires specialized roofing services
Get Professional Roofing Services For Your Home
Whether you want stylish, affordable, or sustainable roofing, working with a proficient installer will guarantee the best results for your home. Reach out to a licensed contractor today if you need quality roofing services. Experts can assist you with installations, repairs, maintenance, and upgrades, and they can ensure that your roof system is in tip-top condition.
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