Why Roofing Materials Matter

Different Materials Provide Different Protection

When you’re picking out materials for your new roof, you have a pretty big choice to make. Not only will your roofing materials affect the overall look of your house, but they’ll determine what kind of protection from the elements that your roof can provide.

When it comes to the outer layer of your roof, materials matter beyond aesthetic reasons. We had our roofers go into detail about the most common roofing materials out there to help you understand why it matters what your roof is made of.

Asphalt

Asphalt shingles are the most common type or residential roofing material in the United States, and there’s a good reason for that. Asphalt roofing is affordable, low maintenance, easy to install, and looks great on just about every home. Consisting of a “mat” made of fiberglass or organic material, and asphalt coating, and an additional coating of protective granules, these shingles provide a lot of protection. However, they’re prone to lifting up in high winds and curling in the sun which compromises the protection they provide, and they’re not the most environmentally friendly roofing material.

Metal

Metal roofing uses durable materials and minimal seaming, giving them a much greater level of protection. Metal roofs also help keep homes cool during hot weather, saving you a lot in air conditioning costs. Plus, they’re easy to install and don’t require much maintenance. On the other hand, metal roofs can get expensive, create a lot of noise, and are prone to dents that needs repairs.

Slate

A slate roof can be a gorgeous addition to any home. Aside from the aesthetic appeal, these roofs are naturally fire-resistant, can stand up to rain and storms and can last much loner than other roof types – up to 100 years! But slate is heavy and costly and can crack easily under pressure. If you need to walk on your roof to clean your gutters, you may find yourself needing expensive repairs.

Tile

Tile roofs and slate roofs have a lot in common. Both are fire-resistant, aesthetically pleasing, can last for a century, and weigh more than other roofing materials. The main difference is that tile roofing is the most environmentally friendly of the common roofing materials and has insulation properties that help keep you cool in the summer and warm in the winter. The same drawbacks from slate roofing apply, as tiles can be just as brittle as slate.

Finding the Best Material for Your Property

If you’re building a new roof from scratch, or replacing an old roof, you may find yourself a bit confused. How do you choose which material is best for your home? It’s important to consider the pros and cons of every material, as each one can protect you from certain elements while being vulnerable to others.

If you’re choosing a roofing material, you should consider:

  • The weather in your area
  • How much heating and air conditioning you use
  • Your budget
  • How much weight your home can bear
  • The overall look of your home
  • The local pest population
  • How often you’ll need to walk on your roof

Of course, you can always contact our roofing experts for professional advice. We’re happy to help you build the roof that your home needs, using the right materials to protect you from the local environment.

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