You may be building a new home or preparing to replace an old roof. Before you consider choosing the most popular option, you should learn about the different options available. With so many different options available, you can become easily overwhelmed. Each roofing material excels and falters in various ways. Here we will teach you to understand your different roofing options. The following guide will help you narrow down your best options.
Asphalt Shingles
Most homeowners and builders choose asphalt shingles above any other roofing material in the industry. Three different styles of an asphalt shingle include 3-tab, Architectural and Premium. Identified as good, better and best options respectively. Depending on the style you choose, they can last between 20-30 years. A few styles can last up to 50 years.
Pros: It costs less than any other roofing material. This type also installs more easily than most other types of roofing. Asphalt shingles are also very versatile. They look good on almost any home style. They come in a wide variety of styles and colors. Also, unlike other roofing materials, they require no support. They also weigh less than most other options. They weigh between 200 to 350 pounds per square foot.
Cons: The 3-tab option lifts easily with the wind. This allows water to get under them or tears them off completely. All styles damage easily in excessive temperatures. Cracks form in extreme heat, and damage can occur at below-freezing temperatures. Sun and hail can also fade or damage the shingles. Algae also potentially damages asphalt shingles. Though cheapest to install, over time, they cost more because they need replacing more frequently than other options.
Clay Tile Roofing
Clay tile is one of the oldest roofing still in existence. Clay is made from natural materials. It comes in a variety of styles and options. They can last up to 100 years.
Pros: Because of their durability, clay tiles last up to 100 years. That’s more than a lifetime. They withstand hail and wind much better than asphalt shingles. Clay tiles are made from earth minerals, making them a fantastic green roofing option and can be easily recycled. You also save money on energy costs with clay tiles. They keep houses cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Many love the look of clay tiles. This improves the curb appeal of your home. And there is virtually no maintenance. They replace easily if one breaks.
Cons: Clay tile costs usually two to three times that of asphalt. They also weigh about 850 pounds per square foot. This requires additional structure to your roof upon installation. Because of their porous nature, we do not recommend them in climates that regularly experience freeze and thaw. They are very difficult to install. To provide appropriate protection, measure them and lay them precisely. Be sure to hire a professional contractor for installation.
Cedar Shakes and Shingles
Many love the look of cedar shake roofing. Though they come in several wood varieties, cedar is the most common option in North America. They are available in both shakes and shingles. They also come in a variety of thicknesses, styles and sizes. Shakes look more rustic while shingles look more refined. Expect them to last 20 to 50 years.
Pros: Most people agree that cedar shakes are beautiful. They last longer than most types of asphalt shingles. Cedar shakes handle hurricanes, heavy rains, hail storms and snow significantly well. Because of their make-up, they provide more energy efficiency than basic asphalt. They also recycle easily.
Cons: Cedar shakes cost more to purchase. They also cost more to install. They also have a higher fire risk than any other roofing options. As a result, some home insurers increase premiums on houses with cedar shake roofing. Cedar shakes also require more maintenance than most other options. They attract moss, rot, mold and fungal growth. Treatments exist to help protect cedar roofing from moss, mold and fungus. However, treatments greatly increase the cost of the shingles.
Slate Roofing
A high-quality material, Slate roofing lasts longer than any other option. Slate comes in both hard and soft. Hard slate can last up to 200 years, while soft slate may only last from 50 to 125 years.
Pros: People love the appearance of a slate roof. And they come in a wide variety of colors including gray, green, purple, black red and mixed. They also come in a variety of thicknesses and sizes. Its longevity makes it an attractive option for many homeowners. It also resists fire more than any other roof option.
Cons: It is very difficult to install, but this won’t deter inexperienced roofers from making the effort. This results in a mess. While properly installed slate roofs can last 150 years, an improperly installed slate roof causes all kinds of damage to your home. Slate also weighs more, between 800 to 1,500 pounds per square foot. As a result, you will likely need to install more structural support. You also should not walk on a slate roof. And if a tile needs replacing, good luck matching the color perfectly. Finally, slate costs five times more than conventional materials.
Metal Roofing
Businesses and government housing often use metal roofing because of its longevity and easy maintenance.
Pros: Metal lasts longer than most other options: between 40-70 years. They also reflect sunlight and heat, making them more energy-efficient. Metal roofs resist mildew, insects and rot very well. They are very lightweight, about 100 to 150 pounds per square foot. They also handle storms and other weather very well. They hold the highest rating for fire resistance available. It is also very easy to install.
Cons: Expense wise, they come in just below clay and slate. They can also be very loud during rainstorms. Minimize this with barrier layers. If not properly cared for, they also rust in rain. They are also worn down by ultraviolet light. People can slip more on a metal roof; especially when it’s wet. Metal also dents more easily than other types.
Roofing Costs
As you are beginning to understand your different roofing options, not all options cost the same. The following list places each roofing option in a general order of cheapest to most expensive.
- Asphalt Shingles
- Architectural shingles
- Wood Shingles
- Metal Roofing
- Clay Tiles
- Slate Tiles
Homeowners and businesses alike need to understand their different roofing options to select the best roofing material option for their home or office. Some options may not be wise simply because of your location. For example, a wood roof in fire-prone California would be a terrible choice. In fact, it may be illegal in certain areas. On the other hand, replacing the roofing of an older home with slate can cause a myriad of challenges because of the heaviness of the slate. Most importantly, ensure that you have the best installers available.
Contact the friendly representatives at Specialty Home Products and ask about some of the roofing services that the professionals provide. Call us today to get a free estimate for your roofing job and to understand your different roofing options available in the Spokane area. Specializing in both residential and commercial installations, the expert roofers will help homeowners with just about all of their roofing needs. Homeowners can always expect the professionals to be polite and courteous. When customers call this Spokane roofing company, they will have the opportunity to explore unique customization options for their roofing system. Clients can personalize every aspect of the installation, depending on what they want.