Your roof is your main source of protection against the elements, so making sure you’re choosing the best roofing material is incredibly important. Different roofing materials have various benefits and drawbacks, so researching to ensure you select the best material that meets your needs is crucial.
Types of Roofing Materials
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most used material by homeowners today. They cost $2 to $4 per square foot for material, making them the cheapest option on the market right now. Asphalt shingles are also the easiest to apply to your roof and are the most viable option for people in various climates. You also have a variety of options for qualities and colors, allowing you to get exactly what you want from your new roof. A downside to asphalt shingles is that they have a lifespan of anywhere from 15-30 years which is shorter than other roofing materials and may need to be replaced sooner.
Wood Shakes and Shingles
Wood roofing is a good option for those looking for a more aesthetic appeal for their home. They typically cost anywhere from $3 to $5.50 per square foot for materials and are made from natural materials such as cedar, redwood, and pine. Certain climates with warmer weather and a high likelihood of fires may prohibit these roofing materials because they don’t always meet fire codes; however, they can be used if chemicals are applied to the roof to make them fire-resistant. Wood materials can also lead to mildew, mold, and water damage and may need frequent maintenance. They have a lifespan of anywhere from 20-40 years and can be quite high maintenance due to the wood materials used.
Slate
Slate roofing is incredibly durable and has a long lifespan of over 75 years, one of the longest for materials. It is fire-resistant, sustainable, and comes in a variety of colors to make your home look elegant. There are a few downsides to using slate on your roof, including the cost, which is anywhere from $9 to $20 per square foot for material. Slate is also dense and may need extra support for your roof to hold its weight.
Metal
Metal roofing is one of the most durable materials, offers some solar reflection, and can come in various architectural styles. They are lightweight compared to other materials, can withstand the elements, and have a lifespan of 40-70 years. The price per square foot ranges from $1.50 to $25, making the metal more expensive than other materials. Installing metal requires specialized labor and extra underlayers to make the material soundproof.
Clay
Clay is long-lasting, non-combustible, and energy efficient compared to other materials. This material provides great resistance to various climates and weather changes and is water and pest resistant. Clay roofs require little maintenance and allow the temperature within your home to remain consistent and maintained. There are downsides to clay roofs, including their heavy weight, the price of material being around $10 to $18, and their ability to only work well for steeper roofs.
Overall, the roof material you choose depends on the qualities you’re looking to get out of it. If you’re looking for cheaper options, consider an asphalt or wood shake roof. If you want something more durable, you’ll likely choose metal, slate, or clay for your roof. The best roofing material will vary depending on what you’re looking to get out of it.
Work with All Aspects Roofing & Construction
After deciding to get your roof replaced, you’ll want to make sure you’re working with a company that knows what they’re doing. All Aspects Roofing and Construction offers a variety of roofing services, including residential and commercial roofing. We have 35 years of experience in the industry and pride ourselves on our five-star service.
Visit our website to learn more about our services and how we can assist with your roofing needs.
Sources
Top 6 Roofing Materials | HGTV
Best Roofing Materials: A Guide for Selecting The Best Roofing Materials (todayshomeowner.com)
