Is getting your roof replaced one of your new year’s resolutions? There are lots of different types of roof covering, so one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is which one you want. Here’s what you need to know about all the best roof cover types. They all have their benefits and drawbacks, so it’s all about understanding what’s best for your home.
1- Asphalt Shingles
These are, by and large, the most common roof covering in the US right now. They’re made of a mix of fiberglass, asphalt, and mineral composite, giving you a range of colors depending on the mixture used. The look of the shingles can be adapted further by choosing architectural or three tab shingles. There are a lot of benefits of asphalt shingles that make them so popular. The biggest reason people pick them is that they’re highly affordable. They’re one of the cheapest options on the market, so they should work for most budgets.
Plus, they’re a low maintenance roofing type that’s easy to install. Any roofer will have lots of experience installing them, and if a shingle were to break or come away, they’re simple to replace. With shingles, though, you will see that they’re one of the shortest lived types of roof covering out there. With good care, they should last around 30 years. They’re also prone to fading thanks to sun exposure, so you’ll need to take this into account when considering them.
2- Metal Roofing
Metal roofing was often considered the classic commercial roofing option, but now they’re often used for residential buildings too. They are often installed in large sheets or panels, with standing seams that connect them and seal the roof against the elements. However, you can get metal roofs that imitate all kinds of materials, including slate tiles, wood, and more. Metal roofs have become very popular because they’re a long lasting roofing product. Depending on the type of metal roofing you get and how well you maintain it, they can last for up to 70 years.
Plus, they’re great for resisting leaks as they have fewer seams in them. As such, you’ll only ever have to replace the roof once in your lifetime. Of course, as they’re so long lasting, they will be more expensive than other types of roof covering. For some people, that means that a metal roof is out of their budget. They also require more specialized installation, making it somewhat harder to find the right roofer in your area.
3- Clay Tiles
Clay tiles are potentially one of the oldest types of roof covering out there, dating back at least 5,000 years. It’s one of the most popular roofing types in hotter climates, as they’re so fire resistant and can help regulate the temperature inside the home. That will allow you to keep those energy costs down.
As a roofing type, they look great, really offering some great curb appeal. That’s something you’ll want to keep in mind if you’re considering selling the home at some point in the future. They’re also another good low maintenance option. If you are considering clay tiles, you’ll need to remember that they are a very heavy roofing option, so your roof will need to support their weight. Plus, they are vulnerable to impact, so storms can easily break tiles.
4- Slate Tiles
A slate tile roof is comparable to a clay tile roof, so consider one for your home. They’re another long lasting roofing type, as they are fireproof, resistant to impact, and aren’t affected by high winds or temperatures. There are several types of slate that you can get for your roof, too. There are natural slate, quarried slate, or even synthetic types too. The synthetic slate styles are often much more affordable while still offering the same benefits, so they’re worth considering.
Just like clay tiles, these tiles will be heavier than other types of roof covering. If you want to have them installed, you may need to have your roof reinforced first. Plus, they are more expensive than other options, so you’ll want to keep this in mind.
5- Wood Roofing
There are many options for you when it comes to wood roofing, as you can get your roofing made in several different types of wood and pick either shakes or shingles. This gives you much control over how the roof looks and allows you to create a style that suits it perfectly.
Wooden roofs are great for many homeowners as they’re a fully natural material. When they are eventually replaced, there’s no need to worry about them being put into landfill and creating waste. They’re another good roofing type for those looking for curb appeal, too. As they’re wooden, these roofs will need a lot of maintenance to keep them in good condition. For example, you may need to spray them with fire retardants and chemical preservatives. They will also not be good for those living in wet climates.
6- Green Roofing
If you want to try a roofing style that’s somewhat different, then green roofing will be for you. These roofs are covered with vegetation, often grass, but they can also be native wildflowers and other plants. These are becoming more popular as homeowners want their homes to be more sustainable. As you’d imagine, there is a lot more maintenance that you need to do with a green roof. Your roof will also need to be reinforced to support the weight and the water needed to keep it green.
Conclusion
These are just some types of roof covering you’ll want to consider for your roof. There are many choices, so you can pick something that really works for your needs. Which roof would be best for your home?
