Know Your Roof: Common Home Roofing Materials

There comes a time when it is necessary to replace a roof and with the variety of roofing materials on the market, it pays to know more about how they differ from each other. Other than aesthetics, roof materials can vary in cost and roofing lifespan. Homeowners need to be aware of what they can expect from popular home roofing materials. Individuals looking to buy a new construction home or replace, rather than repair, their current roof can benefit from learning more about asphalt shingles, clay tiles and more. Some roofing projects can be done as a DIY project, though others require a professional.

Asphalt Shingles and Rolls

An affordable and easy to install roofing option is asphalt shingles. Homeowners appreciate that these shingles are available in a range of colors, are inexpensive and are easy to reinforce. That being said, a homeowner may need to replace their roof more often with asphalt, as it is known to have a shorter life span. High quality asphalt shingles that are properly installed may last up to 25 years. Asphalt roll roofs may last a decade, are relatively popular, but are best suited for porch roofs, garages and sheds. Homeowners living in areas with extreme temperatures may want to investigate other options that have better insulation factors.

Clay and Concrete Tiles

Clay and concrete tiles are known to be incredibly durable. This option may come in terracotta clay, ceramic tile and concrete tile. Overlapping tiles create a sturdy roof offering an elegant roofing appearance. Clay tiles should be installed by an experienced professional.

Concrete tile roofs are less expensive than clay tiles and are considered to be energy efficient. Expect to layout for special framing for this type of roofing, but know that a well-maintained roof may last anywhere from 50 to 100 years.

Metal Roofing

Those living in areas that can experience extreme weather may want to investigate metal roofing. Such roofing may be useful for homes susceptible to wildfire danger. Metal roofing materials may include stainless steel, copper and aluminum. Homeowners may find metal panels or shingles. A lightweight and recyclable material, they require minimal, if any, maintenance. Standing seam metal roofs generally last from 30 to 50 years, with some requiring replacement at the 75-year mark. As with any roofing material, regular inspections should be done to make necessary repairs.

Slate Roofing

Seen on luxury homes, slate roofing material is made from quarried rock. Installation must be done by trained craftsmen and homeowners may want to know that slate is recognized as one of the most durable roofing materials. With proper maintenance, slate roofing can last up to two centuries or more. Homeowners should replace broken slate tiles and will need a new roof when copper flashing blackens.

Affordability vs. Longevity

Jumping Pound Ridge homeowners who need to replace a roof have to balance the expense of new roof materials and installation with its potential life span. The style of home and comparable homes in the community may also serve to dictate which options are most appropriate and will help maintain resale value. Individuals planning to stay in their home for some time may want to explore more durable options with longer life spans.

Costs for roofing materials and installation can vary and may roofing materials require professional installation. More affordable roofing materials may be used on homes with basic roof designs. New Canadian home buyers may want to review suitable roofing choices and their maintenance requirements with a roofing specialist.