If you are looking at getting a new roof or deciding on what type of roofing to get for the first time, there are a few options of roofing materials available. All have their pros and cons.
Decisions are made on how much they cost, what they look like, and what will best suit your climate. There are also variations of each material, ranging in quality and price.
Here is our guide to roofing materials:
Asphalt
These are the most popular choice in roofing. Asphalt shingles are made of asphalt and ceramic granules with fiberglass in the middle. They are fairly light and easy to install. These shingles are a good choice if you want style at a good price
You can get them in two types. Laminated shingles, also known as architectural or dimensional shingles, are layered, and their thickness and depth make them look more like slate or wood shakes.
Organic asphalt shingles start with paper, often recycled, that is saturated in asphalt and then covered with granules. The shingles are heavier and harder to work with than fiberglass, but they are usually stronger against the wind.
Although you may still see them on many roofs, organic shingles have been mostly phased out or discontinued over the past few years. Manufactures have stopped making them because of their tendency to dry out.
They may last 30 years or more but can be vulnerable to high winds or severe weather.
Tile Roofing
Tile shingles made from clay, concrete, and other hardwearing materials. They differ from the typical asphalt shingle roof in that they are rigid and heavy. Whether made of fired clay or concrete, tile roofs are extremely durable and can last for centuries in some cases.
Tiles are fire-resistant, excellent for insulation, and last a very long time. While more expensive than a standard asphalt shingle roof, they are less than slate, wood, or metal.
These will withstand severe wind and weather much better, as well. They are much heavier, so they may require extra support and they can break easily. If there is heavy foot traffic or the chance of things being dropped on the roof, it is something to keep in mind.
Metal Roofing
You have a few choices when it comes to metal roofing. Steel, aluminum, copper, and alloy strips, and in various shapes and textures. Copper is especially expensive, but after a while, the copper turns a greenish patina that many people find attractive.
Metal is easy to install and it is very lightweight and it can’t burn. However, it can be noisy with rain, hail, trees hitting against it or tress dropping other debris like acorns or other growth.
The metal can become dented but it is not really noticeable due to the texture. It also reflects the sunlight so it will keep the house much cooler in the summer months.
Metal can be made to resemble other materials or textures, so it is still quite versatile.
Which Roof Is Best for Me?
That will all depend on what type of roof shape you have, your budget, and what style or look you are after. Keeping in mind, some can be made to look like others.
Why not give us a call and find out what will be the best option for your house? Pyramid Roofing offers you a free estimate, so when we are there, you can ask us all the questions about your new roof.
We can help you decide what type of roofing materials will be best for your house.
