Explore These Popular Roofing Choices for Your Home
A roof is among the most prominent features of a home or a building that significantly impacts its curb appeal, style, and appearance. The prime objective of a roof is to weatherproof the house and protect it from other external hazards. Various roofing choices, ranging from natural materials (wood, slate) to manufactured products (metal, plastic polymers, and asphalt), are available. Therefore, homeowners looking for the right roof for their new home or updating their existing roof have many options. Cost, durability, sustainability, energy efficiency, and longevity are the crucial elements to consider while choosing a new roof.
It is critical to choose the best roofing material as it makes a considerable difference to the look and functionality of the roof. Let's explore the most popular residential roofing choices available to homeowners:
Asphalt composite shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most common and popular residential roof type, both among homeowners and roofers. Their popularity is due to their durability, wide availability, and cost-effectiveness. Asphalt shingles (or composite shingles) are made of fiberglass or organic paper fiber mat covered with asphalt and coated with mineral granules. The roofing material is available in varied colors and styles and provides considerable waterproofing, ease of installation, and can withstand extreme temperatures. Asphalt shingles last between twenty to thirty years.
Metal shakes or shingles
Metal roofs are becoming increasingly popular due to low-maintenance requirements, high energy efficiency, lightweight, eco-friendliness, strength, durability, recyclability, and resistance to insects, termites, and extreme weather conditions. Metal roofs are made from stainless steel, zinc, copper, and aluminum and are available in panels and shingles. However, metal roofs are a bit expensive and need a highly trained and experienced professional for installation.
Clay and concrete tiles
Tile roofs look unique and beautiful, and in some instances, can even last for centuries. Clay or concrete tiles come in various colors and profiles and are known for their resistance to rain, mold, fire, and decay. Tile roofs are heavy and expensive to install but easy to maintain. They are suitable for hotter climates as they keep the homes cool. Clay tiles can either be glazed or unglazed. Tiles are fragile and susceptible to damage from wind or foot traffic.
Slate shingles
Slate shingles are ideal for upscale homes requiring a sophisticated appearance. Available in different styles and colors, slate roofs can easily last over a hundred years. Slate is one of the oldest and the most expensive roofing materials. It is very durable, fireproof, and can stand up to the most inclement weather conditions. Slate roofs are heavy and labor and cost-intensive to install.
Flat roofs
Flat roofs are easy to access and have a slight slope for efficient water drainage. Although they are high in demand for commercial buildings, several homeowners also love their charm, safety, and ease of installation. However, flat roofs don't last longer than other roofing types and require a lot of maintenance. Built-up roofs (BUR), modified bitumen roofs, and rubber membrane roofs are the popular flat roof types.
Wood shingles or shakes
Wooden roofs offer an attractive look but are expensive and unfit for areas prone to high moisture and wildfires. Wood roofs last about twenty years in damp climates and up to sixty years in dry climates. Wood shingles and shakes made from cedar or redwood are eco-friendly roofing choices.
Green roof
Green roofs are the latest in roofing technology, comprising a layer of vegetation over a waterproof material and adequate drainage. They put back the oxygen in the air and provide natural thermal insulation. Green roofs require regular maintenance to last longer.
Get the best roof for your home
Several factors affect the decision to choose the right roof for the home, including the budget, personal preference, climatic conditions, and the home's architectural style. Get in touch with an expert to decide on the best roofing type for your house. They will consider your home's unique requirements and ensure a quick and efficient installation.
