The roof of your home is one of the most critical parts. It protects you from rain and snow, prevents water damage to your house, and can even increase the value of your home when it’s time to sell. With all of these benefits, it’s important to make sure that you choose a material that will last for years and protect your family from the elements.
Asphalt
Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material in the US, and they’re made from a petroleum-based product. This makes them less expensive than other options.
Asphalt shingles typically last around 20–25 years before needing replacement, depending on where you live. Those in colder climates will likely need to replace their roofs sooner than those in warmer ones. This is due to winter damage caused by ice dams forming on your roof’s edges when temperatures drop too low for snowmelt runoff.
Cedar Shake
Cedar shake is a natural roofing material made from cedar wood. It is a fire-resistant material that has been used for thousands of years, and it’s considered one of the best options for homeowners who want to make their homes more eco-friendly. They typically last between 40 and 50 years. If you keep them in good condition, however, they will last longer.
Cedar shake uses a process called shingle burst to produce its unique look. This means that as the wood ages and expands, it creates cracks that give the roof its character. The only drawback with this type of roofing is that it needs regular maintenance. Otherwise, you could end up with leaks or rot issues on your home’s exterior walls due to water damage.
Clay Tile
Clay tile is a prevalent choice for roofing. It’s durable and long-lasting, and it can be installed over a variety of surfaces. They are made from fired clay, which makes them harder than other tiles—so they’re more resistant to cracking under extreme temperatures. However, this can make them less flexible than other roofing materials, such as slate or concrete tile roofs.
This material is also weighty compared to other types of roofing material, so installing it requires specialized equipment and training that many contractors don’t have. Clay tile roofs are not waterproof by themselves. They need an additional layer of waterproofing, like tar paper above the tiles, to keep water out of your home during rainstorms or floods (though some newer versions come with built-in waterproofing).
Metal
You may think that a metal roof will not likely last as long as a shingle or tile roof, but you would be wrong. Some metal roofs can last up to 50 years! The durability of a metal roof is due to its fire-resistant properties, which are also beneficial in keeping your home safe from wildfires and other disasters that could result in extensive damage to your property. Metal roofs are energy efficient and reflect heat away from the house. This means less energy is needed during the hot summer months for cooling purposes, making them an ideal choice for those who want their homes to run more efficiently year-round.
Maintaining your metal roof is easy because they’re made of materials that don’t absorb moisture or collect debris like leaves or dust very quickly. Plus, they’re resistant to rust, so there’s no need for expensive repairs every few years—a massive benefit if you don’t have time or money available! Metal roofs come in different colors, so they won’t clash with whatever color scheme you have inside your home.
Slate
Slate is a very durable roofing material. Its long life span and resistance to weather will keep your home protected for decades. However, it is also the most expensive material in this article. They are not as standard as asphalt because of their cost, but they are much more durable than other options, such as clay tiles or shingles.
One thing that makes slate roofs stand out above all others is their longevity. They can last up to 100 years with proper care! This feature makes them an excellent choice for homes with high maintenance or repair costs due to age or wear and tear over time. If you’re looking for something that will last a lifetime, consider installing a solid slate roof on top of your home!
So if you’re considering renovating your home, you should consider the long-term advantages of installing a slate roof. This can be the perfect roofing material if you’re thinking about garage plans that are detached, for instance. This way, your detached garage can be made of a different material and still look good with the rest of your house.
Closing Thoughts
You should now better understand each type of roofing material and what it’s best for. If you’re still unsure which one is right for you, don’t be afraid to ask around! Many people will have experience with one or more types of roofs, so they can tell you what their pros and cons are.
