Types of Roofing Materials and How to Choose the Best

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The roof is the most important component in protecting your property against rain and strong winds. Given the unpredictable climate conditions, your roof can be prone to damage or leakage. 

There are numerous roofing materials and choosing the most appropriate one can be overwhelming. Here’s a simplified explanation and how you can choose the best one:

Benefits of Roofing Your Property

A durable roof does more than protect your property from rain. It can:

  • Protect your property from water damage, mold, and mildew
  • Increase your property’s resale value and attract more buyers
  • Reduce the cost of maintenance
  • Reduce energy costs as modern roofing materials efficiently reflect the sun’s rays and keep optimum temperature inside your property.
  • Improve the air quality of your property, leading to fewer health issues
  • Lower your monthly insurance premium

Types of Roofing Materials

Whether it’s a residential property or a commercial enterprise, there are a myriad of roofing materials available. Here are five common roofing materials you can explore:

Asphalt Shingles

The most common type of roofing material, asphalt shingles are affordable and easy to install. You can choose between different materials such as fiberglass, organic, or composite.  

The longevity of asphalt shingles depends upon their exposure to sun and wind. In moderate climates, they can last up to 30 years. 

Metal Roofing

It is a superior option for properties prone to snowfalls or wildfires. There are different ways to install a metal roof. You can choose between metal shakes and shingles or standing seam metal roofing. 

Metal roof installation requires special skills, but it is fairly easy to maintain. Moreover, it has a longer life span than asphalt shingles, lasting up to 50 years or more. 

Wood Roofing 

If you want to give your house a luxurious makeover, wood roofing is an excellent option. Both types of wood roofing, shakes, and shingles, offer durability and are energy efficient. 

Although not as long-lasting as other types of roofing, it is environmentally friendly and biodegradable. It is prone to wildfires and can easily be damaged due to moisture. 

Clay Tiles

If you live in a hot climate, clay tiles are the best roofing option for you. These are made from earthen clay, molded into shapes, and fired for hardness and durability. Clay tiles absorb little moisture and can last for decades in desert regions. 

However, they are expensive and require expertise to be successfully installed. Moreover, clay tiles are incredibly fragile and unstable in cold temperatures. 

Concrete Tiles

Clay and concrete tiles go hand in hand. Both have similar installation processes and work great in a hot climate. 

Concrete tiles are cheaper than clay ones and can be colored as per your choice. They are prone to water damage and, therefore require constant maintenance. 

How to Choose the Best

There are no right and wrong materials in roofing. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. It is important to consider your budget, climate, and the condition of your property before choosing an option.

One way to simplify this process is to get in touch with different roofing companies. Many companies offer free evaluation visits and quotes. Compare their prices and recommendations and choose the one that best suits your demands. 

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