When you install a new roof, it is an opportunity to improve your home’s aesthetic appeal and increase its value. Choosing the right roofing material can take your home’s exterior to a new level, and communicate your style to the neighborhood. You are not just upgrading your roof, you are upgrading your home.
A roof is often an afterthought for many homeowners. It not only keeps your home dry, it is intrinsic to a home’s look and feel. Therefore, it is important to consider the many options. There are the traditional asphalt shingles, but also options like clay and concrete tiles, metal roofing, slate, wood shingles, and even synthetic options.
Asphalt Shingles — Roughly 80 percent of the residential housing market uses asphalt shingles. It is not only the most popular, it is economical and the easiest to install. However, it does have a shorter lifespan than some other materials.
Clay and Concrete — These tiles are heavy and brittle, but are fire resistant and last for a very long time. They are also very low maintenance. The clay tiles are expensive, but concrete is a less expensive option and just as durable.
Metal Roofing — Metal panels and shingles are resistant to extreme weather and windy conditions. While more expense than asphalt, metal options are moderately priced overall. The level of durability depends on the material, either steel, aluminum, copper, or zinc alloy.
Slate Roofing — The roofing material with the most elegance and beauty is slate. Like clay and concrete, slate roofing is brittle. However, it is very resistant to strong wind and fire. While slate is very expensive, it can last up to 100 years or more.
Wood Shingles and Shakes — If you want a natural look, wood shingles and shakes is the option for you. While cedar is the most common, other rot resistant woods are available. The one downside is wood is not very fire resistant. However, there is a fire-retardant treatment.
Synthetic Roofing — If you looking to go high-tech, consider synthetic roofing options like rubber, plastic and polymer roofing. These products come in styles and colors that resemble slate, clay, or wood. However, they are not heavy or brittle like slate, and they are more fire resistant than wood. The price is slightly more than wood, but much less than slate, and can last 50 years or more.
If you would like to talk about choosing new roofing for your home, or need more information, please contact us.