If you find yourself needing a roof replacement there are a couple of options. You will find a number of different roofing materials that you will be able to choose from. You will want to educate yourself on the different types so that you can have a meaningful and well education conversation with your contractor when the time comes for that.
Varying roofing materials will have their own lifespans and costs as well as a number of other characteristics that will cause them to provide both pros and cons. With an investment as big and as important as a roof you want to make the best decision. Here we will look at the most popular roofing types and all their advantages so you can make the best choice for your needs.
Asphalt 3-Tab Shingles
This roofing type is possible the most popular when it comes to roofing material. It has been a popular choice for many decades thanks to its durability. This roofing option features shingles made from fiberglass and asphalt as the base. The base is then covered with protective granules that bolster its durability. This type of roofing is also very affordable and is among the easiest type when it comes to installation. These tiles can be installed over your existing shingles as long as the roof deck on your building is in good condition.
This roofing type is safe as it is considered to be Class A fire-resistant with the ability to withstand fire fora approximately two hours. If you live in an area that is fire-prone there may be better options out there when it comes to fire resistance. If you choose this type of roofing you can expect them to last for 20 to 50 years and you will be able to find them at your local home improvement store quite easily.
Asphalt Architectural Shingles
Asphalt Architectural shingles are similar to the 3-Tab asphalt shingles discussed above. They are made from the same type of materials and are recyclable. The only difference is that with these architectural tiles, an extra layer is added to provide a better aesthetic appeal as well as to increase durability. The added layer gives this roofing type an added 10 years minimum so you can look for these lasting at least 30 years and up to 50 years.
Wood Shingles
Wooden Shingles are often called Shakes and are a type of roofing that has been around for centuries but are still quite common in use today. This option is quite durable as it is made most often from hardwoods. There are also options made from composite wood materials. Their lifespan is longer than asphalt roofing as they can last a minimum of 25 years. In warmer climates, you can find these roofs lasting a minimum of 30 years. Note that the life expectancy is based on the type of wood that is used to make these shingles as well as the thickness of the shingles and the climate of your local area.
One of the best attributes of wooden shingles apart from their lifespan is their aesthetic appeal. These will provide a natural look and also weigh less than your other roofing types. They still offer the appropriate strength and moisture protection necessary for a fully functioning roof. These roofing options are environmentally friendly as they are made from wood and have that biodegradable nature.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofs are the option that offers the longest lifespan. You can expect these roofs to last anywhere between 40 and 80 years. Bear in mind that the climate conditions in your region will affect their lifespan. Modern metal roofing options are quite versatile. You can find metal roofing that can match pretty much any architectural style and in a variety of colors.
Today’s roofing options are attractive and can be made fro metals such as aluminum, copper, or steel.
Aluminum panels are naturally corrosion and rust-resistant.
Most steel panels are coated with a metallic coating and then completed with a painted finish. This is to prevent rust while also improving the aesthetic appeal of the roof.
Metal roofing options offer fire resistance and in most areas having metal roofing can lead to the lowering of your insurance rates. Metal roofs also have the ability to increase the resale value of your home.
Slate Shingles, Concrete Tile, and Clay Tiles
These options are among the most durable roofing types you can find as their lifespans are approximated at a minimum of 100 years. These types of roofing materials are non-combustible and tend to be extremely fire resistant. They will not rot and are resistant to insects
When you invest in a tiled roof, you can reduce your energy bill significantly. The inherent qualities contained in tile shingles allow for energy reduction.
Which roofing type sounds like the best choice for your needs? What roofing type do you currently have on your home and what kinds of problems are you facing? We’d love to hear from you, drop a comment down below.
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