Choosing the Right Roofing Material For Your Home
Choosing the right roofing material for your home may seem like a matter of preference, but the right choice is about much more. There are other factors that should be considered as well. For example, homeowners should always keep the location and design of their home in mind when replacing or installing a new roof. Choosing a material that is favorable to the climate in your area and the style of your home will ensure the longevity of your roof. Cost and maintenance are also two very important things to consider during this process. There are a variety of roofing materials available to meet the varying needs and preferences of all homeowners.
Shingles
The most common, and perhaps the most affordable, type of roofing material is shingles. They can be made from materials like asphalt or fiberglass. The cost of shingles can range from affordable to expensive depending on the material they are made from. Shingles can be applied by the handy homeowner or professionally and require little maintenance. Shingles are easier to walk on than some other roofing materials. Therefore, this type of roof can make things like cleaning gutters and chimneys much easier tasks. In addition to being low maintenance, shingle roofs can also provide fire protection. If your home is located in an area prone to high winds shingles may not be the best option, as they are likely to be blown off.
Clay Roof Tiles
Clay roof tiles are a more expensive option. These clay tiles are commonly seen on southwestern and Spanish style homes. They also require little maintenance and are known to last for a very long time. When considering this roofing material it is important to keep weight in mind. Clay roof tiles are heavy and may require homeowners to add extra roof support. Unlike shingles, these tiles are fragile and are not ideal for those intending to gain access to their gutters and chimney via the roof. Clay roof tiles can also be installed by the homeowner if they choose, but considering the fragility of the tiles hiring professionals may be best.
Slate Tiles
Slate tiles can also be used as roofing material. This expensive option is often seen on upscale homes. This roofing material will add a natural look of elegance to your home while providing other benefits as well. This material is low maintenance and provides good fire protection as well. However, like clay tiles, slate tiles are fragile. They are also heavy, possible requiring extra roof support.
Metal Roofs
Homeowners also have the option of using metal as roofing material, usually aluminum or coated steel. This option is also more expensive than shingles, but can have the potential to be a very cost effective material. Metal roofing is durable, fire retardant, and requires almost no maintenance. Metal roofing is also known to be very energy efficient. Installing a metal roof on your home can lower your electric bill by as much as 20 percent. Metal roofing materials are available in the form of tiles, shingles, or panels. Metal roofing, made using 60 to 65 percent recyclable materials, is also very lightweight. Again, installation can be done by the homeowner if they know what they are doing. But when in doubt always call the professionals.
Although we all want our homes to look nice, more should be considered when choosing roofing materials. Homeowners have to choose a material that will fit their style, their budget, and the area in which they live. There are a variety of options available to ensure that homeowners are able to make the best possible choice.
If you have any questions regarding roofing materials you can post them in the comments below or contact us and we will happily answer them.
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