Whether buying or building a house, you must ensure everything meets your quality standards and desired appeal. The roof is one of the most overlooked aspects of the house. Many homeowners only lightly inspect the roof and take the seller’s word for it.
A leaky or damaged roof is one of a homeowner’s biggest headaches. Living comfortably in a house with a damaged roof is virtually impossible.
Whether you want a new roof or to replace the existing one, carefully consider your roofing choices. Today, dozens of roofing solutions are customized for different circumstances.
Finding the best roof for your home will take away the worry for years. Properly maintaining your roof will see it serve you for several decades. These maintenance practices include consulting your local roofing expert to ensure everything is optimal.
So, what is the best roofing material for you? More importantly, what factors should guide your roof selection process, and what are the pros and cons of these roofing materials? Read on for a comprehensive guide to the best residential roofing material for you.
Best residential roofing material
As mentioned above, there is a wide variety of roofing material solutions available today. The right choice depends on factors like your regional weather conditions, personal preference, the house’s architectural design, and your budget.
Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect from every roofing material and its advantages and downsides.
Asphalt shingles
Asphalt shingles are by far the most common on many homes. While their stronghold gradually diminishes, asphalt shingles still cover over two-thirds of roofs. This material rose to popularity because it is durable, cost-effective, easy to install, and comes in various colors. There are two main types of asphalt shingles. These are fiberglass and organic-based shingles. Organic asphalt shingles are more affordable, while fiberglass lasts even longer, is fire resistant, and is lighter.
The advantages of asphalt shingles include the following:
- One of the most affordable roofing materials available
- Resistant to fire
- Lasts for over 30 years when properly installed and maintained
- A wide selection of colors and styles to choose from
- Doesn’t require additional support beyond the standard roof sheathing
The disadvantages of asphalt shingles are:
- Cheaper types fail in extreme weather conditions
- Susceptible to algae and mold growth in shady areas
- Shingles may crack after rapid weather changes
- The lifetime cost can be higher than other options
Metal Roofing
If you trace homes through different generations, you’ll find older houses had metal roofing. Most houses dating 100 years or more likely had the material. Most metal roofing is made from zinc, aluminum, and light steel. Despite its beauty, copper is rarely used because of its high cost.
Benefits of using metal roofing:
- One of the most durable materials and can last from 50 to 100 years
- Lowers your energy bill, especially in summer, as metal reflects solar radiant heat
- Handles snow and rain better than most other materials
- Old metal roofs can be recycled
- While light, metallic roofs can withstand strong impact
Downsides of using metallic roofs:
- Higher installation and repair costs compared to wood roofing and asphalt shingles
- Higher noise pollution, especially without an attic or solid sheathing
- The metal can make it hard to access or leave the house in case of an emergency like a fire
Clay and concrete tiles
This type of roofing material is common in Spanish and Mediterranean architectural styles. These tiles are made from Portland concrete and earthen clay.
These roofs are prevalent in hotter environments. The thick clay and concrete help cool the house. While modern tiles may have different colors, most have a reddish or gray hue.
Advantages of clay and concrete tiles:
- Traditional tiles are reinforced for durability and can last up to 80 years.
- Fire and pest resistant
- Efficient heat regulation, especially in warm weather
- These tiles are recyclable
Drawbacks of using clay and concrete tiles:
- Generally heavier and require additional support
- More expensive compared to asphalt, wood, and metallic materials
Wood
Wooden roofs are an aesthetic and functional option. This distinct material will last for a long time if properly maintained. Shingles and shakes are the two common types of wood roofing.
Benefits of a wooden roof:
- Wood has a natural beauty that stands out
- Contains oils that are resilient to moisture and pests
- Wood can be recycled after use
Disadvantages of a wooden roof:
- Susceptible to fires
- Expensive to repair
What is the best roofing material for you?
As a homeowner, you’re looking for the best roofing solution for your home. For example, Central Florida roofing requires durable material to withstand storms and wind. At the same time, you also need a roof that offers energy-saving solutions.
Alan’s Roofing Inc. is the premier roofing expert in Central Florida. Contact us today to learn the best roofing material for your home. Our professionals are expertly trained to handle everything pertaining to your roof.
