Springer Roofing LLC

Roofs vary in shape, size, and durability because there are a variety of different roofing materials available in the industry. As a homeowner, it’s important to learn the differences between the different materials available to ensure you can make the right selection for your own house. Here are a few common products to review and how they’re each unique as you work with a roofing professional to select the right material for your home.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most common type of roofing material installed on buildings in North American because they’re known to be affordable and durable. They hold up well in different types of climates and are easy to install. Asphalt shingles have an average lifespan of 25 years and are available in different shapes and forms for added versatility.

This roofing material is favored by professional roofers because it can be installed on complicated roofs and complements different styles of architecture. The variety of color shades makes it easy to create a custom look on your home and works with the color scheme of your home’s exterior to ensure the new roof blends in well with the setting.

Many homeowners are surprised to learn that asphalt shingles are fairly energy-efficient to reduce the energy usage on the property each season.

Clay Tiles

Clay tiles are known to be durable and are ideal in warm climates because of how well they insulate buildings because air can freely circulate under the tiles. Clay tiles have a longer lifespan than other roofing materials and can last up to 100 years when they’re maintained well. Their beautiful shape and color shade also allow them to contribute to the exterior design of the home and can boost your curb appeal once they’re installed. They work well for enhancing the look of brick homes, or stone sidings.

Clay tiles also hold up well to UV rays and don’t fade or deteriorate in the sunlight, which makes them easier to maintain over time.

Metal Panels

Metal roofs continue to increase in popularity because they insulate the building and can make it easier to control the temperature in the home. They reflect solar heat and don’t retain it, which allows each room to stay cooler during the warmer months of the year.

The beautiful look of a metal roof makes it a popular choice. Metal panels are available in a variety of color shades and styles, which allow them to complement different styles of homes. You can choose from 15 to 20 color shades to ensure the roof is specific to the design and architecture of the building.

The 40 to 70-year lifespan of this type of roofing material also makes them a great investment. Most homeowners don’t have to worry about replacing the roof during the remainder of their ownership of the home.

Metal panels are also advanced and have a high level of durability. They’re made with protective coatings that prevent them from developing rust when they’re exposed to moisture, which can allow them to continue to look new over time. They also have a high level of strength and don’t crack or bend when exposed to winds up to 140 mph. 

Slate Tiles

Slate tiles are known to be the most durable roofing material in the industry. As a natural stone, slate is extremely weather-resistant and doesn’t fade or crack when exposed to the elements. This allows it to have a longer lifespan and last 125 to 150 years.

The heavy weight of slate requires reinforcements to be used on certain types of buildings. It can also require trained roofing materials that specialize in installing this type of roofing material.

Slate tiles are aesthetically pleasing and create a natural and upscale look on the exterior of the home. They’re also resistant to fire and mold with a low water absorption capacity, making them ideal for different types of climates.

Wood Shakes

Wood shakes look beautiful on older homes and create a classic look. Wood shakes are ideal for installing in warm climates because they’re a poor conductor of heat and work well for insulating the building. They’re also wind-resistant, which makes them hold up better compared to asphalt shingles in some types of climates.

Knowing the pros and cons of each roofing material in the industry can make it easier to make your selection as you plan to install a new roof on your home. Talking to a professional roofer will also allow you to get their expertise and move forward with the project.