The Pros and Cons of All Types of Roofing Materials…

Not all roofs are created equal. Some can last for decades, while others might need to be replaced every ten years or so. The longevity of a roof is determined by the type of material, quality, installation, and regular maintenance done over time. The following will discuss the roofing materials that last the longest and tell you how to reduce the long-term cost of maintenance for your roof…

The pros and cons of all types of roofing materials…

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing is a broad term that encompasses different materials, including steel, aluminum, and copper. Metal materials are available in a wide variety of styles and more than 100 colors that complement almost any architectural style. Metallic coatings and factory-installed paint can also increase durability. Metal roofs are noted for their extended lifespans— lasting 60 years. Metal roofs are expensive and are not appropriate for every home design. Homeowners will need to find a highly qualified licensed and experienced contractor who specializes in metal roofing.

Clay Roofing

Tiled roofs are beautiful and durable. They are also expensive and heavy, but that is perhaps to be expected from a roofing material that can last 100 years. Traditionally, most roofing tiles were made from slate or a fired clay or terracotta product, but today’s roofing tiles are very often made from molded, tinted concrete. Roofing tiles can come in many shapes: curved, flat, fluted, or interlocking, and in many styles. Your roof structure must be able to handle the weight of a tile roof, which may be as much as 2,000 pounds per square for a clay tile and 700 pounds per square for a concrete tile. An asphalt roof, by comparison, weighs only around 275 to 425 pounds per square.

Wooden Roofs

Wood has a longer life span than asphalt roofing— lasting up to 25 years. The lifespan of your cedar shingled roof is highly variable depending on your local climate, the type of wood used, and the thickness of the cut. Cedar and wood shingles weigh less than other roofing types, like clay or slate, but still offer strength and moisture protection. Wooden shingles can be more expensive than other roofing types. Wooden shingles require additional, periodic fire retardation. Wooden shingles and shakes require periodic treatments with preservatives and fungicides in order to keep the roof from drying out, warping, cracking, and attracting mildew.

Slate Roofing

Slate is a gorgeous roofing material that has been held in high regard by architects for centuries thanks to its classic, clean lines. And slate offers more variety than homeowners realize. Slate is available in a variety of colors (such as gray, green, and red), thicknesses, and widths. The materials for a slate roof are much higher than a standard asphalt shingle roof. Slate costs more to manufacture, and as a result, costs more to purchase. Because they are made of stone, slate roofs are incredibly heavy, weighing up to 4x as much as an asphalt roof.

Asphalt Shingle Roofing

Asphalt shingles are affordable to install. They can be applied directly over old shingles, providing the roof deck is in good condition. Asphalt shingles are considered Class A fire resistant— withstanding a fire burning for up to two hours. When purchasing the best shingles for your roof, it is wise to do your homework on what companies have longevity in the industry.

Roof Maintenance Is More Important Than The Roof Type

It is wise to purchase a roof maintenance contract where your roof is inspected yearly. You can extend the life of your roof by hiring a contractor that is trained to install the roofing system when you need to purchase a new roof. A professional will be able to advise you about the best roof for the weather conditions in your area. At least once a year, it is wise to hire professional and qualified roof repair contractors to perform a thorough inspection of your roof and perform any essential repairs. While some homeowners choose to perform roof maintenance themselves, this option comes with serious risks.

Roof Maintenance Tips…

Keep Your Gutters Clean

Trim Back Trees and Landscaping

Check for Cracked or Missing Shingles

Remove Moss and Mold

Look for Leaks in the Attic and Ceiling

Ensure Strong Insulation

Get a Roof Inspection

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