What Is the Best Roofing Material?
When selecting the perfect roof for your home, it is important to choose materials which will shield it from weather-related hazards while lasting long enough and offering you value for your investment. With so many types of roofing materials to choose from, selecting one may prove to be challenging.
Asphalt
Asphalt shingles have become one of the most widely-used roofing options in North America due to their relatively inexpensive upfront costs and ease of installation. Asphalt shingles also are durable enough for most climates; however, their lifespan may not last as long compared to some other materials.
Budget: 3-tab shingles are typically the least costly option; thicker architectural or dimensional shingles cost more. Higher-end options such as Malarkey offer durability and impressive warranties.
Climate: Different roofing shingles reflect heat from the sun to help keep homes cool, while others can withstand freezing temperatures and high winds. Consult a professional when selecting which material would best fit for your home, as they can assist in understanding costs associated with installing various forms of roof covering as well as maintenance requirements over time.
Slate
Slate roofing material offers homeowners exceptional longevity. When installed correctly, slate can outlive most other materials thanks to its ability to resist water damage, fade damage, mildew growth and temperature fluctuations.
Natural slate offers homeowners many different colors, textures and patterns from which to choose, giving them plenty of options when it comes to decor choices for their home. Plus, its classic sophistication adds great value.
While natural slate roofs are highly resistant to mold, fading, and other common issues, direct impacts may cause it to crack or shatter, potentially costing homeowners thousands in repairs or replacement expenses. Synthetic slate offers similar looks at much lower costs.
Clay Tiles
Clay tiles have the ability to add value and curb appeal to any home while simultaneously acting as natural insulation and helping reduce energy bills by improving airflow, solar reflectance, thermal emittance and moisture content.
Earthen clays are formed into buildings by shaping them with molds and then firing for hardness, making the wall durable in any climate. There is an assortment of styles available and these tiles can even be coated with color pigments to match any architectural style.
Your tile roof's lifespan depends on your maintenance practices and environmental conditions. Clay tiles tend to be heavier than their shingle counterparts, requiring professional installation for optimal results. Because these types of clay tiles interlock on all sides without needing additional closures for eave closures or freeze/thaw cycles, professional installation may also be recommended for areas experiencing frequent freeze/thaw cycles. French tiles offer another viable alternative that interlock on all sides – no closures necessary!
Rolled Roofing
Roll roofing consists of various materials and is suitable for flat or low-slope roofs. Although roll roofing tends to be less expensive than other forms of roofing solutions, there can be certain drawbacks associated with its usage.
As it has thinner composition, thinner plastic may not withstand extreme winds or hail storms as effectively. Furthermore, its lack of insulation may necessitate additional efforts in terms of energy efficiency.
Smooth finish rolled roofing is typically composed of organic felt saturated with hot asphalt for strength and stiffness, providing it a temporary roof solution during repairs or remodeling projects. It can be applied to sheds, workshops, garages or other small buildings but is neither durable or attractive enough for use on homes or other occupied structures.
Membrane Roofing
Membrane roofs combine weatherproofing components, reinforcement and surfacing into one system for maximum weatherproofing protection and low cost installation. They're typically found on flat or very low pitched roofs where traditional shingled or tiled roofing would fail.
EPDM (ethylene propylene diene terpolymer) membrane is an extremely durable black rubber surface that lasts up to 50 years with minimal maintenance costs and easy installation. However, due to being black in colour it tends to absorb heat more efficiently, increasing cooling costs accordingly.
TPO was developed as an energy-saving alternative to PVC roofing material, featuring white membranes which reflect heat to reduce energy costs and energy bills. Like EPDM, TPO comes both fully adhered and ballasted forms; its adhesive qualities enable mechanical fastening or chemical bonding for hot air welding of insulation boards or hot air welding to the membrane surface itself; plus it's suitable as a base layer beneath intensive green roofs.
When selecting the perfect roof for your home, it is important to choose materials which will shield it from weather-related hazards while lasting long enough and offering you value for your investment. With so many types of roofing materials to choose from, selecting one may prove to be challenging. Asphalt Asphalt shingles have become one…