Missing shingles, water leaks, and flourishing moss are all signs your roof needs replacing. Unfortunately, many residential roofs only last about 30 years.
If you can’t remember when your home had a new roof or you’re noticing roof problems, you’re probably due for a replacement.
But, given the infrequency of replacement, you want to pick the right roofing materials. First, you need to consider the price, the pitch of your roof, and how long you’d like it to last.
Read on to learn about the most popular roofing materials so you can make the right choice.
Table of Contents
1. Asphalt Shingles
Known for their affordability and availability of qualified installers, asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material. Most asphalt shingles have a fiberglass mat that’s coated in asphalt and sprinkled with granules.
They often last up to 30 years and you even have the option to DIY the installation, although it’s not recommended. Proper attic ventilation is key to making asphalt shingles last as long as they should.
2. Sheet Metal
Metal roofs have been around for generations. Recently, they’ve regained popularity thanks to their eco-friendliness. Their main benefit is that they last forever.
Sheet metal roofs come in a range of styles and colors so they go with most homes. But, they cost almost twice as much as an asphalt roof, but you’ll probably never need to replace it again. For durability, you’ll need skilled roofers to install it like the ones at Roofer Near Me, LLC.
3. Clay Tiles
Clay tiles are popular on Spanish, European, and Mediterranean style homes. They’re known for their characteristic terra cotta color and can lower your energy bills since they reflect sunlight.
The downside is that these tiles break easily if they’re walked on, which makes roof repairs more difficult. They’re also expensive and may need more roof framing to support the weight of the tile.
4. Wooden Shake Shingles
Wooden shake shingles are popular on Victorian and Cap Cod-style homes. They’re also an eco-friendly option if the wood comes from fallen trees. They’re often made from cypress, cedar, or redwood trees.
Wood shingles can last a long time if you keep them maintained and choose treated shingles. Untreated shingles can be a fire hazard, especially if you live in an area where wildfires are common.
5. Slate Tiles
Slate is a popular roofing material in European countries as it’s a common choice for both buildings and homes. It can easily last 50 years or more with proper installation.
You have the option of either real or synthetic slate, but real slate is much heavier. If you go that route, you’ll need extra framing on your roof to support the weight. You’ll also need to hire a company that specializes in slate roofs because it requires a particular skill set.
Which Roofing Materials Are Right for Your Home?
Whether you like the style of clay or wooden shake tiles or the durability of metal or slate, there’s an option for you. Most people choose asphalt shingles for roofing materials as it’s an affordable choice and plenty of qualified installers nearby.
To find more inspiration to improve your home and lifestyle, keep scrolling through our blog.
Read Also: When Is the Best Time of The Year To Replace a Roof?
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