If the time has come to replace a roof, one can easily become overwhelmed when looking into roofing material options. Shingles are the most common roof covering available today. Shingles are sections of material placed over a roof’s underlayment which are meant to protect the structure from the elements.
A new roof is like most home repairs an investment. It is always wise to go into an investment with education and knowledge about all aspects of the major purchase. Today we share a handful of the types of roofing materials that could be considered when replacing your roof.
With a working knowledge of how to consider which shingles will work best, it is just as important to understand the pros and cons that various roofing shingles offer.
Copper. Historical roofing material can last for over 100 years. It is the softest of metal roof materials and so it would be the quietest. Due to its soft nature is easily damaged by hail but will not puncture as easily as the harder metal options. For its longevity and beauty, copper is pricier roofing material.
Aluminum. It is well suited for coastal climates due to its resistance to salt corrosion. Its price tag is less than that of copper but does not fair well with high winds, large hail, or extreme environmental stresses.
Steel shingles. These are the most recycled material used in roofing and are cheaper than aluminum and copper. With a cheaper cost, stell shingles can mimic the more expensive copper and comes with extended warranties, Steel shingles are excellent choices for commercial and residential structures. Additionally, steel shingles have a reputation for faring well in hail and high winds.
Slate tiles. Slate tiles are known for their beauty and durability. They are also durable and resistant to high winds and extreme weather. The longevity of a slate roof is often more than that of the families that live under them and often brings an increased value to the home. Slate tiles are more expensive than other roofing options and require a structure that can support the heavier weight of these fire-resistant shingles. When repairs or tile replacement is needed it can be difficult to find an exact match.
Clay tiles like copper have a long history due to their long sustainability and energy efficiency. They are fire-resistant, can resist damage from up to 2-inch hail, and wind resistant up to 200 mph. Clay tiles are easy to repair when it comes to maintenance but are heavy requiring the proper structure to support them. They are expensive and difficult to install.
Concrete tiles. They are the more affordable option when looking at stone-like roofing materials. They can be made to mimic wood shingles. More affordable than clay, They are wind-resistant to 180 mph, energy-efficient, and fire-resistant with a long lifespan. In contrast to the benefits, the heaviness like that of clay and slate means that the building must be able to support the weight of the concrete. Due to the nature of concrete, color may face exposure to the elements and will require specialty installation.
Cedar wood shake shingles. This natural material offers beauty that keeps natural elements. These shingles can last up to 10 years or more and perform well in hurricane-prone situations, heavy rain, hail, and snow. Traditionally, they are more costly to install and maintain than that asphalt shingles.
Rubber shingles. Boating a resistance to impact, rubber shingles can simulate cedar, slate, and asphalt. They are a good sound insulator, can have a lifespan of up to 50 years, and resist damage with winds up to 160 mph. Rubber shingles are less expensive than copper, slate, or clay, but more costly than traditional asphalt shingles. These will require minimal maintenance during their lifespan. A drawback to consider that that installation is often expensive and requires specialists with minimal options for color.
Asphalt shingles. Of all the shingle options, asphalt shingles are the most widely used for a variety of reasons. They are cost-effective, can blend with any home aesthetic, are easy to install and offer simple repairs when needed. However, they are more vulnerable to wind damage than their heavier counterparts. Asphalt shingles are susceptible to cracking due to temperature extremes and do not have the longevity of some of the pricier shingle options.
There are many factors that will help to assess and determine which type of shingle would fit best. Shingles come in a variety of materials each with its own list of benefits and drawbacks according to things such as budget, climate, and building structure. At Herring Residential, we offer a variety of asphalt shingles and metal roof options depending on the specifications and desires of homeowners. Reach out today to schedule a free estimate for a new roof where we always offer quality service at a fair price.