The roof is one of the most critical parts of a house, protecting it from rain and snow and helping to control the temperature inside. If your home’s roof is damaged or nearing the end of its life, you should think carefully about what type of material to choose to replace it. Here are the pros and cons of several of the most common roofing materials.
Asphalt
Asphalt composite shingles are the most popular choice because they are affordable and easy to install and typically last 20 to 30 years. Asphalt shingles have a fiberglass base and are covered with asphalt and mineral granules. They can expand and contract with changing temperatures.
Wood
Wood roofs can be made from cedar or redwood. Homeowners can choose shingles, which are thin, wedge-shaped pieces, or shakes, which are made by splitting wood and therefore have a rougher texture than shingles.
The lifespan of a wood roof depends on the climate and how well it is maintained. Although wood roofing has an attractive appearance, it’s expensive, may not last as long as other roofing materials, and is not a good choice in areas that get a lot of rain or snow or where wildfires are a concern.
Slate
Slate roofing is much more expensive than other materials, but it also lasts longer, even for centuries in some cases. Slate roofing consists of thin sheets of stone. Part of the reason for the high price tag is that slate requires specialized training to install, and the number of qualified installers is limited.
Metal
Metal roofing made of steel or aluminum can be a good choice in areas prone to heavy snowfall and wildfires. Metal roofs can be difficult to install and cost more than asphalt shingle roofs, but they typically last longer.
With a standing seam metal roof, panels interlock and meet in raised seams. That design helps protect the interior of the house from moisture.
Metal roofs can also be made from shingles or shakes. They can be manufactured to resemble other roofing materials, such as asphalt, wood, clay tile, or slate.
Get an Estimate for a New Roof
Since the roof is such an important part of your home, you want to know that you are choosing a roofing material that will last a long time and that it will be installed properly. This is why you should only trust your roof to a team of qualified professionals who can do the job right.
JS and R Roofing has worked on houses across Connecticut. We use high-quality products and can help you choose the right roofing material for your needs and budget. We can inspect your house and make any necessary repairs to the underlying structure before we install a new roof so you won’t have to worry about unexpected problems later. Contact us today to get an estimate.
