Roofing might not be as exciting as choosing backsplash tile, but it’s a vital part of your homes structure and design. With this guide, we hope to supply you with the information you need so you can make an informed decision about which roofing option is best for your home.
Roofing might not be as exciting as choosing backsplash tile, but it’s a vital part of your homes structure and design. With this guide, we hope to supply you with the information you need so you can make an informed decision about which roofing option is best for your home.
Types of Roofing Materials
Roofing materials not only vary widely in price, but they also vary in colors, longevity, durability, and ease of installation. The key features to keep in mind are budget, wind resistance, temperature durability, fire resistance, and aesthetic.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt is one of the most popular and affordable types of roofing. This type is durable, wind-resistant, and has a high fire rating. They’re available in a wide range of styles, including those that resemble wood, slate, and tile. On the downside, they don’t last as long as other options, they aren’t as environmentally friendly, and they can only be installed on pitched roofs.
Clay Tiles
Clay tiles are a unique option that are molded into many different shapes. They are often lighter in color, which allows them to stay cooler than darker materials. Clay tiles are also ideal for those looking for an environmentally friendly choice, or for those living in hot climates. They have a very long lifespan and can last up to 80 years. One con of clay shingles is that they are expensive to install. They are heavier than other options and might even need structural support to be added to the existing roof. They are not ideal for colder climates since cooler temps can crack the clay, and roof leaks can occur even with tiny cracks or holes in broken tiles.
Wood Shakes
If you’re looking for a classic look, wood shakes are an excellent option. However, due to the fire hazard they bring, they are not permitted in all areas. On the upside, they are environmentally friendly and very durable. They are also energy efficient and can help you save money on those pesky bills. A few downsides are their susceptibility to mold and pests such as termites. They are also more challenging to install than other shingle options and might raise the cost of labor.
Metal Roofing
Ideal for those living in high wind areas, metal roof options can be affordable and are excellent for steep or flat roofs. Low-galvanized metal roofing is less costly, but they can also be made with higher-end metal like copper, tin, zinc, and aluminum. Metal roofs have been known to last for up to 50 years, and there’s an additional option to have rubber applied to extend their lifespan even more. It’s important to note that they are loud during rain or hail storms but some might enjoy this feature.
Slate Shingles
They can last up to 100 years and are resistant to water and other types of damage. Slate also comes in unique color options such as green, black, gray, and red. This allows you to customize your roof to suit your aesthetic. However, slate shingles are among the most expensive options for roofing and will also be costly when repairs are needed. Not many roofing companies specialize in slate, and it could be hard to find a company to care for it.
Composite/Recycled Shingles
Only slightly more expensive than asphalt but much better for the environment, composite shingles are made of a mixture of old and new shingles. They are often referred to as recycled shingles. They can be made to mimic all shingle types, and they are often lighter than asphalt and therefore easier to install. The downsides to composite shingles are their price tag compared to asphalt, and they do not last as long or hold up as well in colder climates.
Solar Panels
Solar shingles are the most expensive option by far but they are the obvious choice for those looking for an environmentally friendly roofing material. Solar shingles are almost twice as expensive as an asphalt shingle roof. Although prices are dropping as technology improves, they are still a heavy investment. Solar shingles also have a sleek, high-end slate look making them ideal for modern style homes. The cons are their high price tag, the need for a professional installer, and only work well in sunny climates.
Although the investment of a new roof is intimidating and not as fun as, well, almost anything, choosing the right roofing material for your home is vital to its longevity. There’s a lot to consider when deciding which type of shingle to install on your roof, but we hope you feel more empowered to make an educated decision with this information. If you have more questions, or you’re ready to start your home remodel, contact us here!