What is the Best Roof Material?
When choosing the perfect roof for you home, it's important to choose materials that will shield your home from weather-related dangers while lasting long and giving you value for your money. Selecting the right roofing material can be difficult with so many options available.
Asphalt
Asphalt shingles are a popular choice for roofing in North America because they are relatively inexpensive and easy to install. Asphalt shingles can withstand most climates but their lifespan may be shorter than other materials.
Budget: 3-tabs are usually the least expensive option. Thick architectural shingles or dimensional shingles will cost more. Malarkey, for example, offers durability and impressive warranty.
Climate: Different roofing materials reflect heat from the sunlight to keep homes cool. Others can withstand high winds and freezing temperatures. Consult an expert when choosing the right material for your roof. They will help you understand the costs of installing different types of roof coverings as well as maintenance needs over time.
Slate
Slate roofing materials offer homeowners exceptional longevity. When installed correctly slate roofing can outlast most other materials due to its ability resist water damage and mildew growth.
Natural slate comes in a wide variety of colors, patterns and textures. This gives homeowners a lot of options when it is time to decorate their home. Plus, the classic sophistication of slate adds value.
Natural slate roofs may be resistant to mold growth, fading and other common problems, but direct impacts could cause them to crack, shatter or break, costing homeowners potentially thousands of dollars for repairs or replacement. Synthetic slates offer similar looks for a much lower price.
Clay Tiles
Clay tiles are a great way to add curb appeal and value to your home. They can also act as natural insulation, reducing energy bills and improving airflow.
Earthen clays that have been shaped with molds then fired for hardness are used to create durable walls in any climate. There are many different styles of tiles available, and they can even be coated in color pigments to suit any architectural style.
Your tile roof's life expectancy depends on your maintenance and environmental conditions. Clay tiles are typically heavier than their shingle equivalents and require professional installation for best results. Professional installation is recommended in areas with frequent freeze/thaw cycle because these types of tiles interlock all around without the need for additional closures. French tiles are a great alternative because they interlock on both sides.
Rolled Roofing
Roll roofing comes in different materials and is ideal for low-slope or flat roofs. Although roll roofing is often less expensive than other types of roofing solutions, its use can have some drawbacks.
Due to its thinner composition, it may not be as resistant to extreme winds or hailstorms. In addition, the lack of insulation can require extra energy-saving efforts.
The rolled roofing with a smooth finish is made of organic felt that has been saturated with hot asphalt. This provides it with strength and stiffness. It can be used for sheds and small buildings such as garages, workshop or workshops. However, it is not durable enough or attractive to be used on homes or occupied structures.
Membrane Roofing
Membrane roofing systems combine weatherproofing, reinforcement and surfacing in one system to provide maximum weatherproofing protection at a low cost. They're usually found on flat roofs or roofs with very low pitches where traditional shingled roofing or tiles would fail.
EPDM (ethylenepropylenediene terpolymer), a black rubber membrane, is extremely durable and can last up to fifty years. Installation is simple and maintenance costs are minimal. Black rubber tends absorb heat more effectively, which increases cooling costs.
TPO was developed to be an energy-saving alternative for PVC roofing. The white membranes that reflect heat reduce energy costs. TPO, like EPDM, is available in both fully-adhered and ballasted forms. Its adhesive properties allow hot air welding insulation boards to the membrane surface or mechanical fastening.
When choosing the perfect roof for you home, it's important to choose materials that will shield your home from weather-related dangers while lasting long and giving you value for your money. Selecting the right roofing material can be difficult with so many options available. Asphalt Asphalt shingles are a popular choice for roofing in North…