When the time comes to have roofing services install a new roof on your home, it is great to know you have more options available than ever before. Whether you prefer the look of natural or need the cost-effectiveness of synthetic materials, roofing companies have the product you need. Before you make a decision based only on a certain look or cost, you should know how various materials can affect your home and budget.
Asphalt and Dimensional Shingles
Asphalt shingles and today’s more attractive and functional dimensional shingles offer homeowners many benefits. They have a fairly long service life in comparison to their cost, and along with durability, they are available in many shapes and styles.
Roofing companies can even install shingles that are fire-resistant, hail-resistant, or thermal-reflective, giving you choices to properly protect your home. In comparison to many other materials, asphalt does not last as long and may require extra insulation in colder climates. They also may not be as thermally protective in warmer climates.
Ceramic, Cement, and Slate Tiles and Shingles
When properly installed by experienced roofing services, ceramic tiles, cement tiles, and slate shingles provide a highly protective covering for your home. These natural, durable, fire-resistant, and thermal-protective materials are especially useful in hotter climates as they absorb heat and prevent it from entering into your home.
They are available in many shapes, styles, and colors. They can last for a century or more if properly maintained. Yet these materials do have some disadvantages. They are all very heavy; shingles and tiles are easily damaged and broken by hail. Slate, ceramic, and tile are also expensive but do last longer than most other roofing materials.
Wood Shingles and Shakes
Wood is an attractive and traditional material used by roofing companies. Wood adds great character to your home and is available in varieties like pine, cedar, and redwood. Unfortunately, it does have several disadvantages.
Wood roofs require a lot of maintenance including cleaning, sealing, and painting. this material can suffer from decay in climates that are more wet and may be prohibited in those that are hot since it is not fire-resistant. Roofs from this material usually last only 20 to 30 years and are more expensive than compared to asphalt shingle installations.
Metal Roofing
Metal is another long-lasting and durable material to consider. It is available as flat panels or pressed to look like shingles. When properly maintained, metal can last 50 or more years, giving you great protection and a number of other advantages.
Today’s metal products are stylish and lightweight, have a high efficiency rating, and are available in many styles and colors. The main drawback with metal roofing is that its appearance can be altered by hail and can be more expensive than asphalt shingles.
Synthetic Material
There are a number of synthetic products also designed to mimic other materials that can be installed on your home by roofing services. Synthetic options can be made to look like wood, slate, and other expensive roofing. They are generally more durable against hail and other types of damage and require less maintenance than other options. This makes them a convenient choice.
The biggest disadvantage with synthetic roofing is that it can be costly. In addition, there is not yet much information available on just how long rubber, plastic, and polymer roofs can be expected to last.
So, which material is best for your home? Your choice should be based on a number of factors including cost, durability, and your local climate. Look for other qualities like fire-resistance, thermal efficiency, and resistance to hail damage as well.
The good news is that if there is a certain look that you would like to achieve, roofing services can help you find the right natural or imitation material. Experienced roofing companies have access to the best options in roofing materials so they can cater to your specific need!
