Roofing Materials Comparison
0
0
When replacing your roof, there are various materials from which to choose. Asphalt shingles remain popular with residential roofers; however, metal has seen increasing interest as it offers greater energy efficiency and longevity.
Traditional metal roofs can be manufactured to mimic shingles, tiles or wood shakes – for instance with barrel shingle roofs, Mediterranean tile roofing and hand-split shake metal shingles being just some examples of such options.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles remain popular choices among roofers due to several compelling advantages: affordability, installation ease and style variety make asphalt shingles one of the top roofing materials on the market today. On average, they last between 20-years on average before needing replacing due to hail or wind damage. Unfortunately, however, asphalt shingles don’t stand up as well to wear as other options might; hail damage is one of their weak points and damage can happen more easily than with other options.
A shingle’s granular surface layer helps shield it from harmful UV rays from the sun while simultaneously acting as a fireproof material, potentially helping reduce insurance rates for your home.
A shingle’s base or mat can either be an organic felt saturated in asphalt or fiberglass mat. Organic felts typically use recycled paper coated in salt coatings while fiberglass ones contain glass fibers coated in asphalt for fastening to the roof deck securely, with most asphalt options featuring heat activated adhesive tabs for fastening to roof deck securely – while some models even allow users to change out individual shingles without taking down entire roof deck. This reduces intrusive installation.
Clay Tiles
Clay tiles offer traditional roof styles with plenty of curb appeal, are durable, last longer than asphalt shingles and require less work when installing; however, their weight makes installation more complicated, so before considering using them it is essential that your roof can support their weight before proceeding.
They are typically constructed out of fired clay or terra cotta and may feature an extra coating to increase durability and color retention. Popular Spanish and Mediterranean architectural styles also make these very stunning to look at.
As well as aesthetic advantages, metal roofs also boast many utilitarian benefits that surpass other roofing materials, such as fire resistance and durability. Furthermore, they’re energy efficient as they reflect over 85% of UV rays from the sun’s harmful rays – ideal for those seeking traditional European style with their home design. Finally, metal roofing also adds class.
Concrete Tiles
Concrete tiles offer homeowners durable design features, energy efficiency, and curb appeal that exceed those offered by other roofing materials. Their wide variety of styles suits any aesthetic goal from rustic clay tiles to Gothic dark slate roofs; concrete can even recreate the texture found on wood shakes and asphalt shingles for an authentic appearance. However, concrete is considerably heavier compared to other roofing options and requires structural framing reinforcement before installation.
Though durable and difficult to damage, glass roofs can still be broken by debris such as falling branches or large hailstones. Furthermore, their porous nature means water absorption can lead to issues like moss and mildew growth if left uncovered; these issues can be addressed through proper waterproofing treatment and regular cleaning sessions. Moreover, heavy snowfall accumulation puts immense strain on their structures.
Metal
Metal roofs have quickly gained in popularity as homeowners recognize that cheaper does not necessarily translate to better when it comes to roofing materials. Metal roofs provide curb-enhancing aesthetics as well as long-term energy efficient protection for homes and businesses – not to mention being quieter than their shingle or tile counterparts.
Steel roofing panels come in various forms, from galvanized steel (which resembles tin) to weathering steel (which closely resembles it) and aluminum. Both options offer durability, fire-resistance and lower costs than other metals – both are also available in an assortment of colors and styles to meet any design need.
Metal roofs typically outlast asphalt shingles by two to three times and are highly resistant to hail damage, yet may require more frequent maintenance to keep their good looks. They may also expand and contract over time and exposed fasteners can become susceptible to corrosion that leads to dislodged fasteners or degraded fasteners over time, thus decreasing lifespan significantly.
