8 Types Of Roof Materials To Consider For Your Home
Are you getting ready to have your roof replaced? There are many types of roof materials available to you, so you can pick one that’s perfect for your needs. Not sure which one would be the right one for you?
Here’s what’s available to you now, and what makes those materials right for your home.
1. Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are very much considered the standard for roofing, and you’ll see them being used on so many homes in your area. They have a lot of benefits, the biggest being that they’re one of the cheapest options for roofing. When you’re having your roof replaced it’s going to be an expensive job, so any way you can bring it in under budget is welcome.
They’re also a great option in most climates, so you’ll be able to protect your roof with asphalt shingles easily.
That cost effectiveness comes with a price though, as they are one of the shortest lived roofing materials on this list. On average, with proper care an asphalt shingle roof will last around 20 to 30 years. That means you will likely need to replace it again within your lifetime, so keep this in mind.
2. Rubber
You may not have considered rubber as a roofing material, but it’s something that more and more people are using for their homes. There are a few reasons why you’d want to consider it.
Firstly, it’s a more environmentally friendly version of roofing, as it’s typically made with recycled plastics and rubbers. That’s great for anyone trying to renovate their home more sustainably. It’s also cheaper than some other options on this list, with prices averaging out at $3 to £6 per square foot.
If taken good care of, you can also expect a rubber roof to last for around 50 years, too. Be aware though, when it’s first installed it does have a rather unique odor. For some, that may be a real issue.
3. Metal
Metal roofing is increasingly becoming popular with home owners, as it offers you a lot of benefits. While you may be picturing commercial metal roofs, ones designed for residential use will blend right in with your home. They can even be made to mimic other styles, such as shingles or tiles.
They’re also a very hard wearing and long lasting roofing material. If you take good care of a metal roof, you can expect it to last for up to 70 years in some cases.
As you’d imagine though, a metal roof is more expensive than other options out there. You’ll also need to ensure you have the right insulation under the metal to prevent noise during rain.
4. Slate
Slate is a popular option for roofing, as it looks so good on homes. As it’s a natural material, each slate tile will be different and give your home a unique look.
Another bonus is that it’s waterproof and fire resistant, as well as naturally being resistant to mold, too. As such, slate makes a brilliant roofing material. They can last for up to 100 years too, if well taken care of.
Like metal, thanks to these benefits slate is a more expensive roofing material. Also, you’ll want to remember that it’s very heavy, so your roof will need to be reinforced if you want to install it.
5. Clay Tiles
Clay tiles are always a popular choice in warmer climates, as they have a lot of benefits. They’re highly durable, being able to take on hurricanes, high speed winds, earthquakes, and more. They also add a lot of aesthetic appeal to your home.
Another key benefit is that a clay tile roof can easily last up to 50 years, again if you take good care of it. That makes them a very tempting choice.
With those extra benefits comes added cost, as you would imagine. They’re also very heavy, so your roof will need reinforcement before you have them installed.
6. Concrete Tile
Do you want an option like clay tile, but at a reduced cost? Then concrete tile can give you what you’re looking for.
These tiles are installed in the same way as clay tiles, and give you all the same benefits, but they’re cheaper to produce. You can get them in a variety of styles too, so you can pick out tiles that give you the right look for your home.
Unlike clay though, concrete is porous and will absorb water if not taken care of, so keep that in mind. You’ll also see that it’s even heavier than clay, so you’ll need your roofer to inspect your roof and ascertain whether it can be reinforced to take the weight.
7. Wooden Shingles Or Shakes
If you’re looking for a more traditional style for your roof, then wooden shingles and shakes will be just what you need. Wooden shingles are thin and wedge shaped, while shakes are thicker wedges with a rougher texture.
For those living in drier climates, you’ll be able to get up to 60 years out of this material when you take good care of it.
The issue is that in some areas, you won’t be able to install wooden shakes or shingles. In some states for example, they don’t meet fire codes so they won’t be available to you. Also, if you live in a wetter climate, you’re likely to only get 20 to 30 years out of your investment.
8. Built Up Roofing
Built up roofing, also known as BUR, is typically designed for flat roofs. It’s installed in multiple layers of felt that are saturated with asphalt.
As it offers a multi layer roof, you’ll get great protection against the elements with this material. It’s also rather inexpensive. It’s a shorter lived material though, lasting 20 – 30 years.
Types of Roof Materials Conclusion
These are just a few of the options you have when you want to get a new roof installed. Talk to your roofer today about which of these options would be best for you.
And if you live in Virginia areas such as Middleburg, Winchester, Leesburg, or Warrenton, we’ll be happy to help you with your metal roofing needs.
