Whether you’re replacing your current roof or building a home from the ground up, choosing your roofing material is a significant process. Not only is roofing material a stylistic choice, but it’s also an environmental choice as certain materials won’t be as efficient in different regions of the country.
There are three main types of roofing: metal, shingle, and tile. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages, so you’ll want to consider your choices carefully. Here’s a quick guide to each of them.
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Metal Roof
Metal roofing is typically the longest lasting as, when properly installed, it can last upwards of 50 years. Of course, this does depend on the weather and how much of a beating your roof takes, but metal roofs generally are the most durable and will last for years to come.
Metal roofing is very lightweight, making it easier for installers. It also doesn’t put extra stress on the structure of your house. You can find metal roofing in a myriad of styles, so you won’t have to just contend with flat sheet metal as a roof if you choose this option.
While this type of roof does tend to be more expensive when purchased, it has a better long-term value. Of course, the upfront costs will be higher than those of a shingle roof, but as metal roofs last so much longer, they end up being a cost-effective option.
Shingle Roof
Shingles are one of the most classic roofing materials and are typically what people think of when they think of roofing materials. They’re cheaper upfront and easy enough to install which is what makes them such a reliable choice for many homeowners. That being said, shingle roofs don’t last more than 20 years, so, over time, they’ll turn into a more expensive investment.
When it comes to installation, shingles come prepackaged and can be installed quickly by roofers. Since they’re such common roofing materials, it won’t be hard to find a roofing company that can install them for you.
Shingles are easier to repair should something damage your roof or require you to repair or replace some shingles. They can be removed one by one at the source of a problem instead of having to remove an entire sheet, such as with metal roofing.
Tile Roof
Tile roofing is expensive, but it can last anywhere between 60 and 100 years, so many homeowners consider it a well worth investment. Tile roofs rarely need maintenance, so you also won’t have to worry about additional costs unless your roof is severely damaged in a storm.
Unfortunately, if you need to repair a tile roof, you can expect the costs to be high. Tile roofs are not cheap to repair, but they also don’t break easily. If you live in a fairly temperate area and there is little to no risk of something heavy being blown onto your roof in a storm, you likely won’t have to worry about repairing tiles.
Tile roofs are suitable for wet areas or places with a heavy rainy season. They can also be great for heavy storms that are common in areas like California or the Southwest. Overall, tiles are very wind and temperature resistant.
Which is Right for Me?
There’s no one answer for every home. The best roofing material will depend on your budget and where you live. As a local roofer, we can help answer any questions you have about which material is best for our state.
Conclusion
There are many types of roofing available which means you have a lot of choices. This is a good thing as it means you’re free to choose something that meets your needs, matches the style of your house, and can withstand your local weather. If you’re confused by the variety of choices available, don’t hesitate to call us, so we can give you more specific advice for your home.