The roof is part of the building envelope that protects against rain, snow, sunlight, extreme temperatures and wind. It adds character and value to a home and can be constructed in a wide variety of materials and shapes.
Traditional shingle roofing and clay tiles hold heat and transfer it into a structure, while metal roofs reflect light and heat away from the house.
Shingle Roofs
As one of the most common roofing types, shingle roofs are durable and versatile. They protect homes from harsh weather conditions and provide good insulation to keep indoor temperatures stable. Additionally, a shingle roof will add value to your home’s resale value.
Asphalt shingles are available in several different color options and styles. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes and thicknesses, so you can find the perfect look for your home. Some asphalt shingle products also offer improved performance characteristics like wind resistance and impact resistance.
Premium/designer shingles: This category typically offers a high-end aesthetic in either shape or color options, and many are designed to mimic the appearance of shake, tile or slate while offering top-of-the-line performance properties. They may even be fire-rated, hail resistant or impact-resistant.
Wood shingles: They are generally made from cypress, redwood or western red cedar. They are kiln-dried and are often quartersawn to minimize warping. They are usually shingled with a natural, granulated surface for a classic, rustic look or with a smooth surface that’s produced by hand splitting.
The shingles are coated with mineral granules that deflect harmful, roof-damaging UV rays. They are also waterproof and fireproof. To extend the life of a shingle roof, proper ventilation (consisting of balanced intake and exhaust) and adequate attic insulation are recommended to help prevent ice dams.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofs are a common sight on modern houses, barns and other farm buildings, but they can also work well with just about any architectural style. Residential metal roofs are made of steel, aluminum or copper. Steel sheets are coated in a metallic paint to prevent rust, while aluminum is usually left plain or painted. Copper, which is considered a natural metal, does not require any coatings or paints and weathers with minimal corrosion.
Metal roofing is long-lasting, with lifespans of 40 to 70 years and manufacturer warranties of up to 50 years or more. These roofs also save energy by reflecting the sun’s rays and keeping heat inside during cold months. They’re fire-resistant, too. Unlike shingle roofs, which can be damaged by hailstorms, well-maintained metal roofs are durable and withstand severe weather with ease.
One disadvantage to a metal roof is that it can be noisy in rainstorms (at 52 decibels, compared to 46 for shingles). It’s important to find a reputable contractor who will install the roof properly over plywood sheathing, and make sure that all water leaks are promptly fixed as they occur. Also, since the roof is exposed to the elements, it’s a good idea to sign up for home maintenance programs that can help keep your gutters clear of debris. These programs can ensure that you get your roof’s full life span.
Tile Roofs
Often seen on Southwest-style and Mediterranean-style homes, tile roofs add an exotic sense of romance to a home’s exterior. But they’re good for more than just their looks. Tile roofs are also durable and energy efficient.
Clay, concrete, and slate tiles are available in a wide range of colors, styles, and shapes to complement any architectural style from medieval to contemporary European. They’re heavy and may require extra structural reinforcements, but they last a long time with very little maintenance.
Tile roofs are very attractive to homebuyers because of their durability and strength. Combined with the right landscaping, they can also increase your property value.
Tile roofs are one of the simplest roofing systems to install and require little maintenance. The natural ventilation under the tiles creates an airtight barrier that reduces heat loss and gain, cooling your house in summer and warming it in winter—lowering energy costs by 20%. Like all roof materials, it’s important to work with a qualified and experienced roofing professional for installation and repairs. The TRI Alliance has a list of contractors who have completed a rigorous training program and have passed a certification test on code approved methods for tile roof installation. Homeowners and builders can search the TRI Alliance website to find a contractor near them. TRI-certified contractors must also be able to provide proof of general liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage.
Flat Roofs
Flat roofs are easy to access, which makes them ideal for a variety of roofing maintenance tasks that can be difficult with a pitched roof. A homeowner can easily climb on the flat roof to perform gutter cleaning, inspections and repairs without having to worry about using safety equipment.
Depending on the material used, flat roofs can be durable and long-lasting. However, a properly built flat roof must be angled correctly to facilitate proper drainage, which can prevent water pooling, leakage and other damage.
The main drawback to flat roofs is that they tend to absorb more sunlight than pitched roofs, which can raise energy costs. However, this can be offset by choosing a reflective roof coating.
Many roofing materials can be used for a flat roof, but the most common is EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer), which is a rubber sheet material. This can be reinforced with fiberglass or PVC, which increases its durability and resistance to weather conditions.
Another option is a “cold” flat roof, which has insulation installed below the deck. This can promote condensation and may require ventilation, which can be challenging in tight spaces. In contrast, a “warm” flat roof has the insulation above the deck, which is more suitable for cold climates. A professional can help you decide which type of flat roof is best for your home.