Whether you're deciding on a roofing material for your brand-new home or you're looking to replace one after a recent storm, it can be difficult to pick the right material that will both fit inside your budget and protect your home for years to come. Even though you have dozens of options at your disposal, below are some of the most common that homeowners have chosen to use. Look through them, and contact a roofer if you need more information.
Asphalt
By far, the most popular form of roofing material is asphalt. Asphalt roofs are inexpensive to install, require very little maintenance, and can last nearly 20 years if maintained properly. Even though they're not as energy-efficient or durable as the other materials on this list, they provide a nice middle-of-the-road option for homeowners who are wanting to cover their home and aren't as concerned about aesthetic appeal.
Metal
For many decades, the roofing material choice for most commercial businesses has been metal. It's durable and long-lasting, and since it's rolled out in gigantic sheets on top of your roof, it's also very easy to install. Recently though, metal has made headway into the residential market, not only for reasons that are mentioned above but also because it deflects UV rays and keeps the house at a more regulated temperature. Recent advances in technology also allow metal to be textured and colored to match any type of aesthetic the homeowner wants, providing a long-lasting look that matches the rest of the neighborhood.
Wood
If you're wanting a material that provides a nice natural look for your home, look no farther than wood. Wooden roofs are durable and energy-efficient, but they can warp and crack over time, requiring a higher level of maintenance than some of the other materials on this list. Instead of a 100% wood roof, you can also look into a wood composite, which can be fire-rated to withstand extreme heat and can stand up to the elements more efficiently.
Slate
Pulled straight from the heart of the earth and placed on top of your house, slate is an extremely heavy yet durable roofing material. On the low end, slate can last around 75 years with almost no maintenance, but hard slate has been reported to last nearly 200. It's heavy, so installation will require reinforcing the support beams (and, as a result, will be more expensive), but considering that your grandchildren won't have to replace your roof, there's no doubt that it will pay for its investment over time.
A roofing company, such as Cloise & Mike Construction Inc, can help you pick the right material for your roof.
