Choosing the Right Roofing Material

Roofing Materials

More often than not, a choice in roofing materials is dependant on your location, just as much as the style you wish to show off. Regional styles and codes can effectively dictate the types of materials used as well. When it really comes down to it, choosing your materials requires a bit of thought into the various features including cost, fire retardation, and durability. In this article, we will outline a few of the more common materials you’ll come across. 

Ashpalt

Asphalt composition shingles are by and large the overwhelming favorite. This fact is due to many varying factors, among which are cost, durability, and fire retardation. These shingles generally come with a 30 year warranty, and most last even longer. 

In addition, roofs fitted with new asphalt shingles will now have thicker, more texture materials. They can even be created to resemble other types of materials like slate and wood. 

Wood Shake

Wood Shake materials are high end and desirable to most homeowners. The material looks great and lasts a lifetime – up to 50 years in some cases! When the material begins to weather in a fashion that is aesthetically pleasing. Most types of shake are cut from cedar, though pine shake is also available in some areas. 

Metal – While still somewhat of a rarity in some countries, this materials is steadily gaining popularity as a go-to building material. As most roofing specialists will not use metal for their jobs, you must find a specialist who is experienced in the application process. For most homeowners, materials such as copper are far out of reach, price wise. In these instances, materials such as galvanized sheet metal may be a better option. Those who end up choosing this type of material can count on up to 75 years of quality…. And that’s enough to make anyone happy. 

Slate – Slate is virtually impossible to install on a DIY basis. The material is quite heavy, replacements are hard to find, and is extremely slippery. Many homeowners looking for that cherished slate look end up using rubber slate materials instead. These materials are both cost effective and last for years. 

Ceramic – Perhaps one of the most popular materials in the southwestern US and Florida, the Spanish ceramic tile roof seems to have been losing it’s grip on homeowners. While reliable and durable, the material is quite heavy and can add unnecessary strain to the structure of the roof.