Roofing materials vary in advantages and disadvantages, and homeowners should consider location, climate, maintenance, and installation costs. Composite asphalt shingles are the most common in the US, while metal is best for areas prone to rain. Clay tile and concrete are durable but expensive, while slate is aesthetically pleasing and can last over 100 years. Living roofs offer insulation and improve air quality. Rubber and mixed materials are energy-efficient but not suitable for high rainfall or snow areas. Constructed and modified bitumen roofs are inexpensive but not for high rainfall or snow areas.
The possibilities seem endless when it comes to roofs. From shingles to concrete, clay to metal, slate to rubber, each type of roofing material has its advantages and disadvantages. Consumers need to consider their home’s location, climate and desired look, as well as maintenance and installation costs before choosing a roof type.
Most residential roofs in the United States are constructed with composite asphalt shingles. These roofing materials come in a wide variety of colors and have a life expectancy of up to 30 years. Another similar but thicker type of tile is the dimensional tile. These shingles have a slightly longer life expectancy of up to 40 years.
Shingles are easy to install and the cheapest option for homes. However, the buildup of moss and the need for proper ventilation can be some of the drawbacks seen with all types of shingles. Some more modern homes have switched from shingles to cedar shakes because they look traditional, but are environmentally friendly and have a life expectancy of up to 30 years.
Since metal roofs are usually made up of steel, aluminum or copper, these roofing materials are best for many different areas. This is especially true for areas prone to rain.
Metal reflects heat from the sun and stands up to strong winds, snow, and rain, so metal material doesn’t have issues with moss buildup like shingles do. While metal is more expensive than asphalt, it is still cheaper than other roofing materials. Also, they are expected to last up to 50 years.
Clay tile or concrete roofs have traditionally been found in warmer or Spanish-influenced climates. These roofing materials can be used anywhere. Clay is a very durable material and can withstand bad weather. Another plus is that they have a life expectancy of up to 50 years. However, clay or concrete is expensive and heavy, which isn’t the best choice for some homes. Historically, people had the most limited color selection with clay or concrete, but the selection has expanded over the years.
Slate is the most expensive roofing material and is commonly found on high-end homes and municipal buildings. While many people choose slate for roofing material because it’s aesthetically pleasing, there are other benefits. Slate roofs are not host to mold or insects. Moreover, they can last more than 100 years.
Perhaps among the most unique roofing materials are plants. A living roof, also known as a green roof, is a thin layer of soil or other substrate that allows a garden of shallow-rooted plants to grow on a roof. Of course, this type of roof is only practical for flat or nearly flat roofs, and only where the climate is appropriate. The main benefits of a green roof are that they offer very effective insulation to the building and improve local air quality.
Other types of roofing materials include rubber and mixed material. Rubber roofs are energy efficient and can be used for any roof shape, but are not intended for areas that receive a high volume of rain or snow.
Both constructed roofs and modified bitumen roofs are inexpensive, but they are not designed for areas prone to rain or snow. These materials are intended for roofs with a low pitch. Constructed roofs contain several layers of saturated felt covered with hot tar or asphalt and usually contain three to five layers, while modified bitumen roofs also contain a mix of materials, such as polyester, fiberglass, and bitumen.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
