Choosing which roofing material to use in your home can be challenging for a home construction or renovation project. The main trouble arises from the fact that there are so many options and such little knowledge about their properties available to most people.
We should consider various factors when making this crucial choice, such as the material’s durability, longevity, aesthetic appeal, weight, roof repair and maintenance burden, affordability, etc. To help you figure out which roofing material will work best for you, here’s a quick look at some of the most popular and effective options available out there.
Asphalt Shingles
These are the most popular roofing materials in the United States for a variety of reasons. Most notably, shingles have the ability to withstand a wide range of climatic conditions. While you can find multiple brands of asphalt shingles on the market, there are three main categories, including:- Architectural Shingles: These provide a sophisticated, hand-crafted appearance that closely resembles wood or natural slate at a fraction of the cost.
- 3-Tab Shingles: These fiberglass shingles create a uniform appearance once laid out in their typical long rows on a rooftop. They are popular due to their low purchase and installation costs. They do often come with weaker warranties compared to other types of asphalt shingles.
- Luxury Shingles: For those not worried about cost, these shingles will provide a high-quality aesthetic effect while offering superb protection. They will stand up against inclement weather elements such as high winds, algae, fire, and general wear and tear over time.
Clay and Concrete Tiles
These are some of the most durable and long-lasting tile options available, and their aesthetic appeal also makes them rank high in the eyes of builders.- Clay Tiles: These are made of natural, recyclable, and energy-efficient materials. While clay can last for hundreds of years with minimal maintenance and is considered one of the most aesthetically pleasing roofing options, its high initial costs put many potential buyers off.
- Concrete Tiles: This offers a cheaper alternative to clay tiles while providing the same protection against harsh climatic conditions.
Metal Roofing
Although metal roofing options have long been considered more commercial rather than residential roofing options, increasing numbers of people are choosing to have metal roofing installed in their homes thanks to their numerous advantages. The most common types of metal roofing materials are:- Copper: Although this is one of the most expensive options, copper can last for hundreds of years. It reflects radiant solar heat and is entirely recyclable but is susceptible to physical damage, making it ideal for stable, dry climates.
- Aluminum: This is a relatively cheap option that provides a cost-effective, long-lasting, reusable alternative that will withstand corrosion, making it an excellent choice for homes in coastal, hurricane-prone regions.
- Galvanized Steel: Steel offers a versatile roofing solution that will suit commercial and residential properties.
