The word “best” is subjective, meaning different things for different people. While your neighbor down the street might prefer metal roofing for its low-maintenance properties, a cousin that lives in the next town over may praise cedar shake roofing for its rustic look. The truth is that there are several things, like your budget, lifestyle, and long-term goals, that decide what the right roofing material is for you. This blog discusses a few different roofing materials, highlighting their key features, so that you can decide for yourself what is the ideal material for your upcoming roof installation project.
Roof Installation: What Material Is The Right One For You?
Okay, let’s say you’re building your very first home or need to replace that dilapidated roof pretty soon. You’re poring over articles, asking friends, and having family discussions over what would be the right choice for your roof. Instead of going through all that trouble, why not keep reading as we discuss the merits of different roofing materials and how one of them could be the ideal one for you?
Read along as we cover all the basics of the top roofing materials out there!
- Architectural Asphalt Shingle Roofs
By far the most popular roofing material, architectural asphalt is celebrated for its cost-effectiveness and durability. Available in a large range of colors and styles, they can work well for homes that have contemporary, traditional, or even modern aesthetics. Adding to all that, architectural asphalt shingles can also resist high winds, snowfalls and hurricanes, owing to their thicker build and have a UV inhibitor coating that keeps them safe from extreme heat.
So, if you’re a budget-conscious individual who still wants style and durability, go for architectural asphalt shingles for the best of all worlds.
- Metal Roofing
Celebrated for its fire and impact-resistant qualities, metal roofing is fast becoming a popular choice for homeowners. With its sleek design, it lets snow slide right off, making it perfect for snowy areas like Alaska as well as hot states like Texas. It is mostly made of recycled material now, making it an eco-friendly option. With a lifespan of about 40-70 years, metal roofs are a durable roofing choice.
So, if you live in an extreme climate, want a solid investment that will last a few decades and are looking for an eco-friendly roofing material, metal roofing checks off all the boxes.
- Clay Tile Roofing
Speaking of durability, did you know that clay tiles have a lifespan of about a century or more? Aside from that, they are also highly resistant to strong winds, fires, and hail, and make for a solid long-term investment. They do require professional installation, though, and if your structure isn’t strong enough, you may need to reinforce your home before a clay tile roof installation.
So, for a low-maintenance, durable roofing material that you don’t mind dropping a hefty initial sum on, clay tiles may be perfect for you.
- Modern Composite Roofs
Now is where things get interesting. These materials can easily mimic the look of slate, met, or even cedar shakes, with about half the maintenance requirements and budget. Available in a variety of finishes, they are a great option for a rustic feel with extra durability.
So, if you’ve got a traditional heart and a residential architecture that matches, go for modern composite roofing options.
- Green Roofing
Returning to eco-friendly roofing, what could be better than green roofing? With the added benefit of plants and a rooftop garden, these kinds of roofs allow homeowners to have their own personal garden where they can socialize with friends and family. Celebrated for its low-carbon emissions and insulation properties, green roofing is an excellent, environmentally conscious roofing idea.
So, if you’ve got a green thumb but lack the square footage on the ground, consider a green roof installation for aesthetics, comfort, and healthier living.
Conclusion
To conclude, the best roofing material depends on your personal preferences. If you live in a cold climate, go for metal roofing; if you want a rustic vibe, consider composite roofing; for an all-rounder roofing material, opt for the ever-popular architectural asphalt shingle roof, and if you want something eco-friendly, a green roof is a great idea for your roof installation project.
FAQs
What is the strongest material for a roof?
Slate tiles are by far the strongest, with copper coming in at second.
What is the newest type of roofing?
Some of the latest types of roofing materials you could go for are self-healing shingles, solar reflective roof shingles, smart roofs, and modular roofing panels.
Which roof is best for resale value?
Slate, metal, and clay roofs yield the highest ROI.
