When the time comes to replace a roof, you have a range of materials to choose from. Knowing the benefits and drawbacks of each option is important. The following are popular roofing materials today and their benefits and drawbacks.
Three-Tab Asphalt Shingles
Look at most homes in America today and you will see three-tab asphalt shingles. The shingles are both affordable and durable. Furthermore, a homeowner can quickly find a look and color that complements the home. As a result, this style remains one of the most popular options for your roof.
Three-tab asphalt shingles and lightweight and waterproof. These shingles resist fire and wind, which homeowners appreciate. They know their asset remains protected from many common hazards. They aren’t eco-friendly, but some options are Energy Star certified today.
Architectural Asphalt Shingles
Made using the same material found in three-tab shingles, architectural shingles offer several benefits. They are more visually appealing than their three-tab counterparts and yet are extremely durable. Their expected lifespan is also slightly longer than that of three-tab shingles. Once the roofer installs the shingles, they provide the roof with a dimensional look.
These shingles do come with a higher price tag. In addition, they aren’t eco-friendly, although some styles are now Energy Star certified. Homeowners must keep this in mind when choosing which material to use.
Designer Shingles
Manufacturers also make designer shingles from asphalt, and they are the highest-quality option for shingles made from this material. The designer shingles are thicker and come in shapes and sizes, so owners can choose a style that adds to the curb appeal of the home. Owners love these shingles can withstand winds up to 110mph and they are very resistant to hail.
As with other asphalt shingles, designer shingles aren’t eco-friendly. Keep this in mind when comparing the options. They also come with a higher price tag than their siblings.
Flat Roof Materials
A flat roof cannot shed water, so shingles will not work on these structures. Water leaks remain a concern, which is why they need a seamless barrier. PVC, EPDM, and TPO are the most common materials used on flat roofs. PVC flat-roof membranes last up to 30 years. EPDM membranes are the most common, however. The major drawback of EPDM membranes is they only last a maximum of 15 years. TPO membranes are typically reserved for commercial buildings and have a maximum lifespan of 20 years.
Cedar Shake Roofs
Homeowners looking for an attractive roofing option should consider cedar shake shingles. This eco-friendly option is 100 percent sustainable and the shingles have a maximum lifespan of 20 years. Know they do require fire retardant treatment routinely. The curb appeal is excellent, however, and the shingles provide additional insulation for the home.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofs come in both exposed fastener and standing seam varieties. Many people choose this roofing option because they love the sound of rain hitting the roof. One benefit of metal is it lasts up to 80 years and reflects the sun, which keeps the home’s interior cooler. Metal withstands wind, fire, rain, and rot with ease. Exposed fastener metal roofs must be inspected regularly, as the washers or grommets can dry out and break. This leads to leaks. Furthermore, screws must be replaced occasionally. Standing seam or seamless roofs have concealed fasteners, eliminating these concerns.
Standing seam roofs work well with solar panels and snow retention systems. In addition, a cool roofing coil may be installed to reflect the sun’s rays. However, this option costs more than exposed fastener metal roofing. Repairs are also more challenging because the panels are connected.
Work with an experienced roofer to find the right material for your home. With their help, you can get a roof that complements your home without decimating your budget. As the roof will last a decade or more, this is one area where you cannot afford to make mistakes. With the roofer’s help, the odds of this happening decrease drastically.