There is a wide variety of materials to choose from when it comes to roofing your home. While, on one hand, a lot of people pay a significant amount of attention to the looks, you must never forget that the roof is your house’s main protection. This has to be the first and foremost factor that determines what kind of material you are going to choose.
Basically, every material out there has its own pros and cons. And, of course, they all differ in terms of how much they cost. In this article, we are going to discuss some of the materials, as well as how long they can usually last before you need to get down to roof repairs. so you don’t need a total roof replacement.
Wood shingles and shakes
Wood is a very popular material in terms of energy efficiency and stylish looks. It has insulative properties by nature. Furthermore, due to being a 100% natural resource, wood shingles and shakes are some of the most sustainable materials that you can choose for your roof.
Another great thing about them is their longevity. They usually last between 30 and 50 years. However, even though this means that they last longer than, let’s say, asphalt shingles, it is very important to note that you can have problems with their durability. While it is true that they are made out of fire-resistant wood (such as cedar), they aren’t fireproof and are also susceptible to cracking. This is why you must pay attention to your roof during bad weather and the like.
Metal roof
Metal is another very popular option as a roofing material. This is due to the fact that it lasts very long (from 40 to 70 years). When purchasing it as a roofing material, you will most often get a warranty that lasts for decades. Furthermore, it is extremely durable. Cracking isn’t something that you will have to worry about, and it is able to resist strong winds, and pretty much any other detrimental natural elements. It is also recyclable.
Still, it is important to mention that it is one of the more expensive solutions as well. Installing it is a process that is much better done with the help of a professional, which is why it is usually expensive. It all depends on the kind of metal that you choose, the best options being aluminum, copper, steel, and zinc.
Slate roof
When it comes to slate, it is one of the most lasting materials out there. It can actually stand up to 100 years and more. It is known to have been used as a roofing material for cathedrals and then reused after 250 years. It has a very stylish and elegant look and can be made in various sizes and shapes. Furthermore, it is fireproof, waterproof, acid-resistant, and holds up extremely well in the face of very high temperatures.
However, it is important to mention that it is one of the most expensive options out there. If you have the money though, it can be worth it as a long-term investment because it requires very little maintenance. What is important to note is that it is more complicated to install than the previously discussed metal roof. According to the advice from experts, such as those at Architectural Leadwork, it is not a DIY matter and should be done with the help of professionals.
Asphalt shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most common choice due to the fact that they tend to be very cost-effective. However, this means that your roof is going to need repairs more often and you need to be very careful about which kind you purchase. Going for the cheapest solution is a very bad idea because it usually means that their durability is far from good. You need to find ones that have a proper hail rating. If a manufacturer doesn’t provide the information about it, then it most probably means that the shingles are of low quality.
You should also keep in mind that they last from about 15 to 30 years. Also, due to asphalt being petroleum-based, they aren’t particularly sustainable. Still, they are recyclable, so once yours have worn out, you can drop them at a local recycling center.
In summation
These are just some of the best types of materials used for roofing. In the end, it is up to you to decide which one suits you the best according to its longevity, durability, and other traits.
You can save up some money and purchase a more expensive material that is going to last for a long time and require very low maintenance. Or, you can decide that you are on a budget, and choose a cheaper solution. This will, however, mean that you are going to have to deal with your roof a lot more often.
