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0 The roof is the most important part of your house. Apart from the walls, it is the roof that keeps you safe and covered during extreme weather conditions. Therefore, the materials you choose for your roof must be durable, reliable, and sustainable. Since there is a wide variety of roofing materials out there for you to consider, it is only right that we discuss them in detail so that you are able to pick the most suitable one after discussing it with your roof repair contractor.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are far and away the most popular option when it comes to roofing materials due to their cost-effectiveness. Furthermore, they can last anywhere between 15-30 years. However, when it comes to durability, never choose asphalt shingles that are cheap during home remodeling because it is going to cost you big time in the long run. Even if the cost is a major issue for you, make sure that you only opt for good-quality asphalt shingles. When searching for the ideal quality asphalt shingles, check for a decent hail rating, which is a good indicator of impact resistance and overall durability.
In addition, roofing material manufacturers are not legally required to mention hail rating. Therefore, if you do not see one, exploring other options is better. And, since asphalt shingles are petroleum-based, their durability is questionable. However, it can be recycled as well.
Wooden Shingles And Shakes
Typically made from fire-resistant woods such as redwood or cedar wood, wooden shingles can last anywhere between 30-50 years. Although they last longer than asphalt shingles but are not that durable either. Plus, even though they are fire-resistant, they are not actually fireproof. Furthermore, wood shingles are also prone and vulnerable to cracking. Therefore, check for a good hail rating while shopping for wooden shingles and shakes.
In addition to that, when it comes to efficiency, wooden shingles are a good natural insulator. They are almost 2 times more efficient than asphalt shingles. And since they are 100% natural, asphalt shingles tend to be more sustainable roofing materials.
Metal Shingles
Metal shingles will last anywhere between 30-50 years. These are made of copper, zinc alloy and steel, etc. While metal roofs are slightly more expensive than their wood and asphalt counterparts, they tend to be more durable. Furthermore, metal roofs are impact resistant and will handle extreme weather conditions as well. Additionally, metal roofs require less maintenance as well. They are a lot more energy-efficient as well and will act as a natural insulator. As a result, your house will keep cool during warm weather and warmer during cold weather.
Plastic Polymer
Plastic Polymer roofing materials will last 50+ years and are an incredibly durable roofing material. Polymer roofing shingles are meant to look like wood or slate shingles but require significantly less maintenance. Furthermore, plastic shingles have comparatively high hail ratings and hold up well against inclement weather conditions. However, since they are so durable and made to last for years, they tend to be uniquely unsustainable.
If you are planning to use plastic polymer, make sure that you opt for manufacturers that are using recycled materials. With that said, they are energy efficient. Like metal roofs, plastic roofs reflect energy rather than absorbing it. As a result, your home will be cooler during the summer and warmer in the winter.
Slate
A roof that is made from slate can last anywhere between 75-150 years. It happens to be one of the oldest and most expensive roofing materials. However, when it comes to durability, slate stands out from the competition. The reason being that it is both fireproof and virtually invincible when inclement weather kicks in. The installation of slates is a sensitive process by the way. It is not the job of amateurs rather professionals who make sure that the slates do not crack while installation.
Final Word
This blog aimed to share and discuss different types of roofing materials for you to consider when planning roof construction or repair. Depending on the budget, cross-compare the different types and pick the one that you think will work the best for you. Ask a roofers to recommend a roofing material that is best for your area.
