Your roofing material might not be something you think about every day, but having a secure roof over your head is vital. Your home’s roof keeps out the rain, snow, sun, and more. Not to mention that your roofing system also plays a significant role in the curb appeal of your property.
Rooftops must be both functional and aesthetically pleasing. However, as with any other home element, roofing systems don’t last forever. Eventually, your roof will need to be replaced, or you may want to buy a new home and will need to choose a suitable roofing system.
So, if you want to replace your roof or pick a roofing material, you may have questions about various options. Which roofing system is best? Are there some residential roofing systems that are better than others?
In this guide, you’ll learn some of the best and most popular residential roofing materials, including their pros and cons.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing options for homes in the U.S, and there are many good reasons for this. Some of the benefits of asphalt shingle roofing systems include:
- They come in a wide range of colors.
- Asphalt is one of the cheapest roofing options.
- They are easy to install.
However, asphalt shingles do have their disadvantages, including the fact that:
- These roofs don’t have a very long lifespan. They tend to last around 15 to 15 years.
- Asphalt shingles don’t offer much insulation.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is increasingly popular for homeowners. These roofing systems are made of panels or shingles, and many metals are used, such as copper, aluminum, and steel.
Some of the pros of metal roofing are that:
- Metal roofs are durable and fire-resistant.
- They have a long lifespan of between 40 and 70 years.
- These roofs are energy efficient.
However, metal roofs aren’t ideal for all homes. Some of the cons include:
- These are much more expensive than other popular options.
- They may not be as good of an option for colder climates.
Wood Shingles
Wooden roofs have been used in home construction for hundreds of years and are still common today. Many people enjoy the look, as these rooftops can look high-end.
Some of the advantages of wood shingles are that:
- They are a natural product.
- They look beautiful and go well with other home exterior materials.
- They can last around 30 years.
On the other hand, remember that:
- Wood roofing systems aren’t always as fire-resistant.
- These roofs are prone to mold and rot.
Concrete Or Clay Tiles
Clay and concrete tiles come in many styles, such as flat, ribbed, and scalloped. Both options are reasonably durable, and they have other additional benefits, such as:
- These roofs are fire-resistant.
- Concrete and tile are energy efficient, which is why they are popular in hot climates.
- They can last up to 50 years.
However, there are some drawbacks to consider:
- Concrete and clay tiles are somewhat expensive.
- These roofs are heavy, so additional framing may be needed for a roof replacement.
Deciding On The Best Roofing System For Your Home
While there are other home roofing types, these are some of the most popular. Now that you know the benefits and drawbacks of various roofing systems, you can make a more educated decision for your house. However, if you still have questions about which option would work best, contact a roofing contractor in your area.
They can tell you more about how various roofing materials fare in your climate and give you more accurate estimates of the costs.
