There are many roofing materials on the market. The type that’s best for your home depends on your local climate and aesthetic preferences.
Asphalt shingles are economical, long-lasting and resistant to high winds. Fiberglass shingles are also inexpensive, resist moisture and withstand damage from hail. Metal roofs are durable and shrug off heavy snow well.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular roof coverings because they offer versatility, affordability and low maintenance. They are easy to install and can be matched to almost any architectural design.
Shingles come in a wide variety of colors and textures, giving you the ability to customize your home’s aesthetic. They can also be made energy efficient, reducing the amount of heat they absorb from sunlight.
There are two types of shingle base materials, organic and fiberglass, with the former using cellulose fibers and the latter using glass fibers. The base is then saturated with asphalt and surfaced with ceramic-coated opaque mineral granules to protect the roof from UV rays, add color and enhance the appearance of the roofing system. The granules help shield the roofing from hail and provide fire resistance, and the underside is coated with a layer of sand, talc or mica to prevent shingles from sticking together.
Metal
Metal roofing is becoming more popular in homes thanks to its durability and style options. It’s also a great choice for coastal areas due to its resistance to salt corrosion and wind damage. There are several different types of metal roofing, including shingles and sheets that connect together like a standing seam.
Steel roofing is the most common type of metal roof. It comes in a variety of colors and panel profiles, and can be cost-effective. It can withstand harsh weather conditions and mildew growth, as well as high winds.
Aluminum is another popular option for its longevity and appearance. It resists corrosion and can be made to look almost identical to shingle roofs with coatings. There are also options like copper that offer a unique appearance and can add value to your home. Zinc is a durable alternative to copper and can develop a patina that helps protect it from harsh weather.
Wood
Often made from cedar, wood shingles and shakes offer a rich aesthetic and beautiful natural appearance. These shingles are budget friendly and provide a warm look that complements many home styles and colors. They also have the advantage of aging gracefully to a distinguished brown or gray color over time. Additionally, this material offers natural preservatives that prevent decay and protect against insect infestation and humidity.
Wood shingles and shakes are available in a wide variety of wood species, colors and grain cuts (edge, slash, and taper). They can also be enhanced with fire retardant chemicals and treated to resist mold, mildew, fungus and rot. Although, their biggest disadvantage is their susceptibility to fire, which can require a higher home insurance premium. Also, they may require more maintenance and upkeep than other roofing materials. Choosing a synthetic wood roof may help alleviate some of these drawbacks.
Clay Tiles
Clay tiles are a beautiful roofing material that adds a distinct Mediterranean style to a home. They provide good airflow and natural insulation, reflecting heat away from the house in summer and trapping warm air inside in winter.
Also known as terra cotta, structural terra cotta, and hollow tile, clay tiles are molded while in a plastic state then fired in kilns, often with coloring admixtures added at peak firing temperatures. This roofing material can be applied in a wide variety of styles and textures to complement different architectural types from colonial to contemporary.
Because of their weight, clay tiles require reinforced framing and sheathing to support the load. A qualified roofing professional can help homeowners determine whether their structure is adequate or if additional structural upgrades are necessary for a tile roof installation. A clay roof is more expensive than an asphalt shingle roofing, but offers a longer lifespan due to its durability and aesthetics.
Concrete
A concrete roof sounds a little intimidating at first glance, but it’s actually very durable. It’s also energy efficient, reflecting sunlight to keep homes cool in hot climates and absorbing thermal heat in winter to minimize heating costs.
Homebuilders are increasingly turning to concrete for their roofs because it can withstand extreme weather conditions like hurricane-force winds and hail damage. Concrete roofs are also incredibly long-lasting, averaging two decades or more and carrying lifetime non-pro-rated warranties. They’re also less expensive to repair than asphalt shingle roofs, and their long lifespan cuts down on landfill waste.
Although they are fire-resistant and impervious to rotting, concrete roofs can still be damaged by falling trees or debris, severe hail, and foot traffic. It’s important to discuss the possibility of structural reinforcement with a contractor before installing a concrete roof.
Slate
A slate roof is beautiful and long-lasting. Its aesthetic appeal can increase a home’s curb appeal and value, making it an attractive feature to prospective buyers.
Slate is a metamorphic rock that originated as mudstone and underwent changes in temperature and pressure over time. It can be found in various colors and tones, depending on its mineral composition. Hematite creates purple tones, and chlorite produces green shades. Slate can be cut into different thicknesses for various uses, including flooring, roofing and blackboards.
While slate roofs are durable and can last up to 200 years, it is important for homeowners to regularly check the condition of their rafters. This can be done during annual roof maintenance and inspections. This can help address issues like water damage, sagging rooflines and rotted rafters before they become more serious. It is also recommended to hire professional roofers that are familiar with the challenges of working with this unique material.