One of the hardest decisions as a homeowner is knowing which roofing material best suits the needs of your home. There are many factors to take in when making this decision such as curb appeal, longevity, cost, your homes structure, and much more.
But where to start?
Before making your choice, consider the lifecycle cost of your roofing material. Some materials, although initially more expensive, require less maintenance and have a longer life expectancy than others.
Here are some of the roofing choices available to you:
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most popular choice for roof coverings in America. The positive aspects of asphalt shingles include low installation and maintenance costs. Roofs made out of these shingles come in different grades. The better the grade, the longer the life expectancy, which can range from 15 to more than 30 years. The asphalt covering is actually a composite made up of either a fiberglass or rag mat with asphalt, which is covered with colored mineral granules. Asphalt shingles come in a variety of colors and styles. Individual shingles may be replaced if damaged. An additional advantage of asphalt shingles is that in certain circumstances, they can be installed over an existing roof of asphalt shingles, eliminating the need to remove the old roof.
Asphalt shingle roofing advantages:
- Inexpensive
- Range from low-cost 3-tab shingle to architectural shingles with extra durability
- Many colors, types, and manufacturers
- Suitable for most residential applications
- Easy to repair
- Fire resistant
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is fast becoming a preferred material across the country. New alloys and coatings make metal roofing panels more durable, with extended lifecycles that can exceed shingles or shakes. Innovations in metal roofing paint systems and coating technology have significantly enhanced the performance of metal roofs. Today’s metal roofs use a coated steel substrate which virtually eliminates worries about rust and corrosion, and resist fading, chalking, and cracking under even the toughest conditions. Plus metal roofs can be architecturally dramatic and colorful.
Metal roofing advantages:
Available in different looks including cedar shingles, slate, or standing seam
- Choice of many colors
- Light weight
- Durable
- Long life span (at least 50 years)
- Low maintenance
- Can be installed over existing roofs
- Excellent performance in high wind, hail and rain
- Environmentally friendly
Slate Roofing
This material is extremely durable and graceful, coming in a variety of looks, while offering low maintenance costs. Typical colors are grey, black and red. Like tile, slate carries the onus of extra weight and this high-quality roofing material can be expensive. However a slate roof can last over 100 years with little or no maintenance.
Slate roof advantages:
- Beautiful, distinctive appearance
- Fireproof
- Long life span
- Low maintenance
Tile Roofing
This material is known to withstand hail, high winds, and even fire. Tiles are also impervious to rot, rust and insect damage and will never decay, which makes them a great choice in the long scheme of things.
Tile roof advantages:
- Durability. When installed correctly, concrete tile roofs can withstand hail stones as large as 2″.
- Longevity. Can last hundreds of years. …
- Fireproof
- High-wind resistant
- Recyclable
- Breathable
- Low Long-term Cost
Choosing which type of roof is right for you will depend upon numerous factors, including your budget, taste and needs. Let Foothills Roofing help you choose the right roofing material that will deliver the best protection and value.
Recent Comments