Are you thinking about replacing your old roof with a brand new one? Well, you must have thought about it already, and you must have realized that the existing roofing structure has to change. Or, perhaps you’re building a brand new home or building self development, and you’ve come to the part of choosing the roof.
Whatever the case is, one thing is for sure. You will want to choose the right materials, as well as work with the right professionals to get great installation services. As mentioned here, you want the top quality products and a flawless installation. Of course, the quality of the products will, as you may have imagined it already, depend on the materials you will choose.
So, what we are going to do right now is talk about some of the most common roofing materials, discussing both their pros and their cons. This way, you will get to understand the advantages of the different types of roofs you can choose nowadays, and thus finally choose the right one for you. Let us, thus, take a look at those various materials.
Metal
Let us begin with one of the most common options – the metal roof. They are durable and have quite a long lifespan, and they are also resistant to all kinds of weather conditions. Furthermore, they are energy-efficient, and require little to no maintenance, which further adds to their longevity. Their disadvantage lies in the fact that they can be a bit noisy during heavy rain, as well as that the metal can expand or contract when the temperature changes, which can lead to some problems in the future. Additionally, the additional cost of installing these is a bit higher, but it certainly pays off.
Clay
Clay, as the natural option, offers an elegant and classic look that is bound to be appealing. Furthermore, clay tiles tend to be extremely durable, and they can last more than 50 years.
Another great thing is that they are non-combustible, that is, fire-resistant, which makes them great for certain areas prone to fires. On the other hand, these are more expensive than other options, and they also require strong structural support to be build, as clay is heavy, and they can break if struck by certain heavy objects.
Read more about the materials: https://www.wikihow.com/Estimate-Roofing-Materials
Ceramic Tiles
Ceramic tiles are, as you may have guessed it, made of fireclay. Once again, they are highly long-lasting and durable, and they provide for great insulation. Yet, they can break or crack on impact, and they tend to be more expensive than some other options.
Asphalt Shingles
Now, here is the option known as one of the most cost-effective ones – asphalt shingles. They are perfect for budget-conscious owners, as they are not only affordable, but also quite stylish and versatile, as well as easy to install. The lifespan of these roofs is a bit shorter compared to the ones talks about above, but they can still last anywhere between 15 and 30 years. Another disadvantage is that they are prone from damage by wind or hail, or other extreme weather conditions.
Slate Roofing
As one of the most durable materials, slate will last for more than 100 years. Furthermore, this natural stone is fire-resistant, and it offers a unique and elegant appearance that will boost the value of your home.
On the other hand, it is one of the most expensive materials, and it is very heavy, meaning it will require additional structural support.
Wooden Shingles
For a rustic, natural look, you should go with wooden shingles. Compared to other materials, it will offer better insulation, and it can also be an eco-friendly option, depending on the type of wood you choose. Yet, maintaining it can be difficult, and wood is susceptible to fire, which is another con to consider.
Rubber
Highly durable and flexible, rubber is perfect for roofs of unusual shapes. Furthermore, it is quite affordable. Yet, rubber may not be as aesthetically appealing as other options.
Composite Roofing
A combination of different materials, this solution can be durable, as well as eco-friendly. But, this solution tends to be a bit expensive. Furthermore, the material can break on impact.
Solar Tiles
If looking for an eco-friendly and cost-efficient option, go for solar tiles. They generate electricity and will, thus, reduce your energy bills. Therefore, they can also increase the value of your property. The downside is that the initial costs are higher. Plus, their efficiency will depend on the amount of sunlight you’ll be getting.
Green Roof
Another eco-friendly option is the green roof. They provide for good insulation, they absorb rainwater, and they offer a unique appearance that is often quite attractive. But, their installation is more expensive compared to other solutions, and it also requires regular maintenance, which can be a bit of a downside.