What are the Different Types of Roofing Materials?

The roof of a house is one of the most important parts that should be thought about during the building process. It’s because it is one of the parts that will protect your home from different weather. And whether your roof has been damaged by a storm, or it’s just time to replace your old roof, part of the process is choosing the material for the new one and of course, you should not be hesitant when it comes to paying for roof repair.

Before, there are only a few choices when it comes to roofing, such as slate, clay, concrete, and asphalt shingles. Today, there are new and advanced roofing materials added to your options. Therefore, if your previous roof did not work well for your home, there are lots of roofing materials that you can choose from today. When choosing the right roofing materials, there are things you need to consider, such as its appearance, cost, longevity, and as well as structural issues.

If you are building a new house or getting your roof replaced but haven’t decided yet what roof to use, we are here to help you. Today, we are giving you a list of the different types of roofing materials and what each of them offers. For additional information, you can also ask your local roofing contractor. You may consider talking to a roofing Brantford contractor about your different options. 

Don’t hesitate to learn more by checking out Steadfast Roofing.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most common type of roofing materials, and they have been used on roofs for more than a hundred years. This type of roofing material is made in the United States in 1903. Before, they were made of rags, but manufacturers searched for a roofing material that was more fire retardant. It’s because, during those times, there were not many fire departments in service in the country yet, and once a house caught on fire, it would burn easily.

Asphalt is a very fire retardant material, making it a great choice for roofing material. Today, asphalt shingles are made from fiberglass and then covered in asphalt. Some are covered with asphalt on one side only, while others are covered on both sides. The shingle top is then covered with stone, such as quartz, schist, or mica. The back part has sand, talc, or mica, which helps the shingles stick together on the roof.

This type of roofing material is very popular among roofers and homeowners for decades because it is durable and inexpensive. It also comes in a wide range of colors, and they can hold up well to extreme temperatures. Asphalt shingles can also give reliable waterproofing, and they are fairly easy to install.

However, the major drawback of this roofing material is it cannot hold up well to foot traffic, and it can be prone to problems in high wind areas.This material is not advisable if you live in an area that is prone to severe thunderstorms and hail, as they can be damaged. Also, keep in mind that it is quite heavy when used on larger roofs.

Slate and Tile

If you are searching for a roof that is classier and more modern looking to match the style of your home, then slate shingles might be the perfect choice for you. A lot of homeowners have been using slate on rooftops in the United States since the 1700s. It is a stone that came from areas that have a lot of clay or volcanic ash. It was very expensive when it was first used, and only lords and ladies were able to afford it. But new ways made slate roofs more economical as a roofing choice.  Be sure to get help from the experts at this Website.

This is a good roofing material because of its natural appearance, durability, superior fire resistance, and it can last up to a hundred years. It is impervious to many weather disasters. It can resist high winds naturally, and as well as tons of rain and hail. It is also available in different colors and styles, making it a good choice for a new roof installation upgrade.However, slate tiles are quite heavy, and they cannot hold up to foot traffic well. It can be more expensive, and it requires expert installation for it to last a long time. But if you have the budget, then slate roofing material is great.

Ceramic roofing tiles, on the other hand, can give your home a cozy and comforting look. Aside from that, it is also weather-resistant, durable, and fireproof. Most of the time, ceramic roofs are used in places that experience extreme temperatures because it cannot be damaged by heat or cold. It is easy to maintainand resistant to damage from rot or insects. However, the downside of ceramic roofing tiles is that they are susceptible to impact damage from hail and storm debris. It can also fade in time.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofs have been used for many years in a commercial and industrial setting. Today, it is becoming increasingly viable as a roofing option for homeowners as well. This type of roofing material is low maintenance, very versatile in design and style, lightweight, and environmentally friendly. Metal roofing can be made in any color you want, and it can be designed in a lot of styles, such as panels, sheets, shingles, and tiles. It costs a bit more to install, but it can last a long time. This material can resist wear and tear from weather, and it can increase the value and appeal of your home in the long run.

However, keep in mind that the installation of metal roofing is a bit challenging, especially when large panels and sheets are used. Also, not all roofing contractors have experience with installing metal roofing systems.

Wood Shingles or Shakes

If you are looking for an attractive roof, woof roofs are great. However, they are quite expensive and have limitations. Wood shingles or shakes are not particularly long-lived, and they are a poor choice if you live in places that get lots of moisture or where wildfires are a danger. But they are still one of the most attractive roofing materials, making them a popular choice for extravagant homes.

Both wood shingles and shakes are created from natural wood. However, shingles are usually thin, wedge-shaped slabs of wood that are made by precise sawing. Shakes, on the other hand, are made by splitting wood and are thicker wedges with a rougher texture. The longevity of this material depends on circumstances and maintenance. If you live in relatively dry climates, wood shingles or shakes roofing can last for up to 60 years. But if you are in an area with a damp condition, it may only last for about 20 years.

Clay Tile

Clay tile roofing is made from earthen clays that are formed into rolled or interlacing shapes and fired for hardness. Most of these tiles are left unglazed and have reddish-orange color. It can also be glazed and fired to form ceramic roofing tiles.

This is a good roofing material for hot climates or where salt air is present. That’s why you’d normally see these roofs in southern coastal regions, and as well as in desert regions. This is an expensive roofing materialbut very long-lasting. In fact, it can last more than a century.

Concrete Tile

This roofing material is an alternative to clay tile, having similar installation techniques and similar advantages. Concrete tiles are formed from standard sand-mix concrete colored to whatever hues you want. There’s also a variety of profiles available. In fact, some even resemble rolled clay tiles, while others look like wood shakes. Sometimes, this roofing material is coated with a decorative coating. It is also very heavy, making it a good choice for high-wind regions.

Stone-Coated Steel

A stone-coated steel roofing will give your home’s roof the look of beautiful, rustic clay tiles at a fraction of the cost. It has a wide variety of styles. This roofing material is made by advanced technology that you would never notice that it is actually made of metal. It is resistant to rain, freeze-thaw, snow, and wind. It will also not break, split, absorb water, or warp. During severe weather, such as hail, earthquake, and fires, it can show incredible resilience. It is also lightweight, and can add value to your home.

Rubber Slate Tile

Rubber slate tile or synthetic slate is more durable and safer compared to an authentic slate material. They are fire-resistant and effective when it comes to exposure to external fires. It is also lightweight and no extra reinforcement is needed, making it practical for residential construction. When being installed, it can be trimmed and cut easily using a knife to make custom adjustments.

Rolled Roofing

Rolled roofing is not used very often for residential roofing, but it is a great and affordable option for garages, barns, potting sheds, work sheds, and other outdoor structures. It is perfect for low slope roofs and very easy to install, too. You can find rolled roofing in home improvement stores. You can buy them in rolls about 36 feet long and 36 inches wide. You can also cut and customize them if needed.

However, rolled roofing can only last for about 8 years, and they are less durable. There are also not many color options. But they can work just fine for your shed.

Green Roofing

Moss is commonly considered a bad sign for a roof. But, with proper design and planning, moss and other plant materials can be an eco-friendly roofing option. 

Green roofs are those that are covered with plants. This is a great roofing material as it can improve air quality, insulate your home, and reduce water runoff. However, if you are thinking of installing this type of roof in your home, keep in mind that they need extra structural support, thermal insulation, drainage, waterproofing, vapor barrier, soil, water filtration, compost, and plants. Green roofing usually lasts up to 40 years.

There are two kinds of green roofing, which includes extensive and intensive roofs. An extensive roof is thin and is only appropriate for light-weight plants such as moss. Intensive green roofing is made to support heavy foot traffic and plants.

The cost of green roofing can differ greatly. However, if budget is not a problem, and you want to give back to nature, then this roofing material is a good option. Keep in mind also that this kind of roofing material requires regular upkeep to last a long time. However, there are building codes that don’t allow this type of roof, so check with your local building department first so as not to waste time and resources building one.

Solar Tiles

Solar tiles are different from solar panels. They are solar-powered shingles for the roof. This type of roofing material is sleek, stylish, and eco-friendly. However, it can be expensive to install and relies mainly on sunlight for power. But it is said that the cost-savings from going solar will match its initial costs after 7 to 20 years. It can also add value to your home.

This type of roofing material is built to last. The cost of maintenance and repair is also nothing compared to other types of roofs. It is highly rated against fire, hail, and wind. Technological advances have also been made to enable the panels and tiles to collect the energy it has gathered in the day and use it as a backup for cloudy days or bad weather.

Final Thoughts

These are some of the different types of roofing materials that you can choose from for your home. Determining the best roofing material for you depends on your personal preferences, and of course, on your budget, too. We hope this will help you decide which type of roofing material is perfect for your home.

You can find the best kind of roofing material for your house and climate. To determine the best option for your location, ask a roofing contractor or local roofers in Cincinnati and check the ideas mentioned above.