Selecting the best roofing material for your home includes knowing the various options and your budget. You’ll make the right decision for your location and type of home once you learn about the pros and cons of types of roofing materials.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most common type of roofing material due to their lightweight design and affordability. They’re also readily available and easy to install. Asphalt is known for its wind and fire resistance.
The downsides of asphalt shingles are their shorter lifespan of approximately 20 years, and that they are not considered to be eco-friendly, although they can be recycled in some areas.
Wood Shingles
While wood shingles are less common, they are known for their durability and can last up to 25 years. This roofing material is a popular choice because of its natural look. The wood used to make these shingles is heavier than asphalt but lighter than clay, yet it still offers a high level of moisture protection.
Wooden roofs require maintenance including periodically applying fire-resistant chemicals along with fungicide treatments to help prevent the roof from cracking, drying out, and warping.
Metal Types of Roofing Materials
Metal roofing is lightweight and available in a variety of materials, ranging from steel and aluminum to copper. Metal has a relatively long lifespan, lasting between 40 to 80 years. Metal is low-maintenance and can help reduce utility bills by increasing energy efficiency. Metal is also fire-resistant which makes this type of roofing a popular choice for homeowners.
A metal roof can be quite expensive depending on the size of your home and type of metal; however, due to its ability to resist fire, you may qualify for lower insurance rates in some areas. Metal roofs don’t usually appeal to homeowners who want a traditional look, but metal roofing is available in over 100 colors and many different styles that work with almost any home.
Clay Roofing Tiles
Clay tiles are one of the most durable roofing materials and can last up to 100 years due to the kiln-fired process that tightly binds the molecular structure of its elements together. One of the best features of clay tiles is their ability to absorb heat, which makes this roofing material perfect for hotter climates and energy conservation.
These tiles are also desirable for their unique appearance reminiscent of rooftops fashioned in the Italian and Spanish style. Clay tiles are costly and fragile during severe weather events, and a home will require enhanced structural support to withstand the weight of the tiles.
Different Types of Roofing Materials
Roofing materials are diverse and come in a wide variety of textures and colors with varying levels of resistance to the elements. Some of these materials include wood shingles, clay tiles, metal, and asphalt shingles, which all have benefits and drawbacks. Your type of home, local climate, and budget will help you select the right roofing material for your property.
Cole’s Inspection Services provides inspection services to customers in Statesville and the surrounding area of North Carolina. Contact us to schedule an appointment.