Homeowners have a wide array of roof options to choose from today. Each material offers advantages and disadvantages, but what’s important is finding the right type of roofing for your structure.
The most common roofing materials used for homes are asphalt shingles and metal. Metal roofs can range from simple panels to shingle lookalikes that are often a better choice for high-wind regions.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are one of the most common roof coverings in North America. They are inexpensive, easy to install and come in a wide variety of colors and styles.
Essentially asphalt shingles are made of a felt or fiberglass mat that is saturated with an asphalt material. The asphalt is designed to seal the fibers and protect it from the elements. The asphalt also has coarse mineral granules pressed in that give the shingle its color and offer added protection against weather and fire.
The granules also help reflect the sun’s heat off the shingle, which can add to energy savings in homes with a good solar roof system. The shingles are nailed to the roof and each other, and there is adhesive on them that helps hold them in place during wind storms.
Asphalt shingles can be divided into two categories – architectural or dimensional shingles and three-tab shingles. Architectural shingles are the most popular and can have a random or natural looking pattern or be engineered to mimic the look of wood shake or slate roofing. They are more expensive than three-tab shingles but have better manufacturer’s warranties.
Wooden Shingles or Shakes
Wooden shingles and shakes are natural roofing materials that protect houses from the elements. They also add a rustic aesthetic to the house. Both are very durable, but must be maintained regularly to avoid rot and insect infestation. Cedar is one of the most common types of wood used for roofs and siding.
The main difference between shingles and shakes is how they are manufactured. Wood shingles are sawn and exhibit some cross grain, while shakes are hand split and follow the grain more closely. This results in a textured appearance for shakes versus shingles that look much smoother and uniform.
Wood shingle styles include heavy split and resawn, medium split and resawn and tapersawn. The first two are the most rugged and rustic, while the last is sawn on both sides for a semi-textured appearance. Shakes can be cut with an edge or flat grain, which affects their stability over time. An edge grain is the best option, as it is unlikely to distort over time. A flat grain is less stable and may split when nailed.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofs, once a familiar sight on barns and sheds, are enjoying a revival of popularity. Often made of tin or galvanized steel, they come in a dizzying array of colors and finishes that rival the choices for asphalt shingles.
Panel types vary, but most metal roofing panels are either corrugated or standing-seam applications. Standing-seam options look like long sheets of painted steel with vertical seams, whereas corrugated styles offer wavy or flat panels that fit into many architectural designs. Some products receive a coating of stone granules that softens the appearance of metal and reduces the sound of rain or hail hitting the roof.
Although they are more expensive upfront, metal roofs usually last twice as long as an asphalt shingle roof and improve the home’s energy efficiency. They also resist damage from wind, fire, and moisture better than other roofs. A tin and lead-coated metal roof, once popular in Europe, develops a protective patina that fades to a soft blue-green over time. Copper is the most expensive metal roof material, but its beauty adds to a house’s resale value.
Synthetic or Polymer Tiles
The ageless appeal of Spanish slate tile or cedar shakes can add a luxurious, distinctive beauty to any home design. However, those looking for the classic style without the challenging installation or the hefty price tag often turn to synthetic or polymer tiles.
These look-alike roofs are made from a mix of rubber and plastic materials, which make them significantly lighter than authentic slate and less expensive to install. They also hold up well to the elements, enduring heavy rains, hailstorms, and extreme heat with minimal wear and tear. And they’re designed with advanced ultraviolet inhibitors, which protect against sun damage and fade.
Aside from being incredibly durable, synthetic slate roofs have other great features. They’re typically one-fourth the weight of genuine slate, which reduces the load on the roof structure and cuts down on shipping and installation costs. They’re also impact-resistant and fireproof, and many carry a Class A fire rating (meaning they are effective against exposure to external flames). In addition, most contain impact modifiers and have built-in safety features like vapor barriers and air vents that help reduce energy use and prevent condensation.
Rolled Roofing
A rolled roof is one of the most affordable roofing options. This is partially due to the fact that this type of roof does not require the use of specialized tools or equipment for installation. However, homeowners should always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to minimize potential problems during or after the installation process.
Roll roofing is ideal for low-incline roofs and can typically be purchased at any home improvement or hardware store. Unlike shingles, which must be applied one at a time, a square of rolled roofing can be laid in a matter of minutes. It is also much easier to transport than shingles and requires no special machinery to move to the roof.
While this type of roofing can be durable, it does not stand up well to high winds and hailstorms. In addition, it does not offer the same color and design options as other types of roofing. Therefore, homeowners who are concerned about aesthetics should opt for another roofing material. In addition, homeowners should regularly remove debris, such as leaves and branches, from the roof to prevent moisture buildup.