Picking out the right roofing material is a significant decision for every homeowner. The material you choose will affect several important aspects. For instance, it will impact the aesthetic appeal of the roof, as well as its durability and cost.
When choosing the ideal roofing material, you should look for something that can complement the architectural style of your home. Not only that, but it is also paramount that the roofing material you choose is able to withstand local weather conditions and fit within your budget. Here is a list of seven of the best roofing materials you might want to consider for your home.
Asphalt Shingles
When it comes to popular roofing materials, asphalt shingles just have to be mentioned. As they are cost-effective and easy to install, they quickly become everyone’s favourite. They also come in a variety of colours and styles, making it easy to match almost any home design.
Their only disadvantage is that they have a shorter lifespan compared to the other materials. However, since they are so easy to install and repair and suitable for most climates, people usually opt for asphalt shingles for their roofs.
Metal Roofing
Another very popular roofing material is metal roofing. Known for its extreme durability and longevity, metal roofing can last up to 70 years. Made from materials such as steel, aluminium, copper, and zinc, it can be fashioned into shingles, panels, or tiles.
These long-lasting metal roofs are ideal for climates with regular rain, snow, or even heavy winds. Since they reflect solar heat, they successfully reduce cooling costs. Lightweight and fire-resistant, metal roof will require minimal maintenance. However, the only con is the possible higher upfront cost.
Clay and Concrete Tiles
There is no better way to achieve a timeless and classic look than by using clay and concrete tiles for your roof. These tiles are typically seen on Mediterranean, Spanish, or South-western-style homes. Lasting around 50 years, clay and concrete roofs show impressive durability.
These roofs aren’t for any house. On the contrary, due to their heaviness, they require a reinforced roof structure. For that reason, installation of the roof may be complex and costly. On the other hand, due to their longevity, resistance to fire and pests, and energy efficiency, they’re still great roofing material choice.
Slate Roofing
One of the most durable roofing materials in the market is slate. Made from natural stone and available in various colours and sizes, slate roofing is perfect for both upscale and historic homes that might need high-quality heritage roofing.
Slate roofs can exceed an entire century, making them some of the most durable roofs today. Even though they require a bit more time and effort during installation, they require minimal maintenance later.
Wood Shingles and Shakes
Materials that will go well with a natural and rustic house are wood shingles and shakes. They are ideal for houses done in certain architectural styles such as Cape Cod and Craftsman. Their natural appearance and aesthetics make them pretty popular roofing materials.
Typically, they are made from cedar, redwood, and pine. The shingles are usually machine-cut, while the shakes are hand-split in order to achieve a more textured look. Unfortunately, they are prone to mould and rot, so they should be used only in certain, less damp climates.
Synthetic Roofing Materials
Rubber, plastic, and polymer composites are all synthetic roofing materials. They mimic the appearance of traditional materials such as slate, wood, and tile. However, the biggest difference between the traditional and synthetic materials is that the latter come in much lower prices.
Not only the price, but the weight of the material is much lower too. While this is a cost-effective alternative to natural material, it should be mentioned that the materials still provide durability and simple installation.
Solar Tiles
Finally, solar tiles are a modern and innovative solution. Also known as solar shingles, they are designed to combine functionality of a roof with solar energy production. They look just like traditional roofing materials but they can generate electricity too.
High initial cost and professional installation are some of the potential cons when it comes to solar tiles. On the other hand, renewable energy generation and electricity costs reduction, as well as sleek integrated appearance, and increased property value make them valuable investments.
Conclusion
There are numerous roofing materials on the market today. To pick the right one, consider your budget, specific needs of your home, and your long-term plans. Each of these materials offer plenty of advantages and some potential drawbacks, so make sure to choose carefully!
