If you are in the process of building a new home or renovating an old one, one of the most important elements to pay attention to is the roof. Without a good roof over your home, you run the risk of weather damage, pests, and other long-term issues.
There is a lot that goes into choosing the best roof and caring for it. You want to set yourself up with a system you can depend on for years to come. If you want to learn more about roofing systems and roofing materials, read on for more information.
Before You Start
When it comes to residential roofing, make sure you adhere to all the necessary building laws in your region. Contact a professional contractor that can install your roof and make sure everything is up to code.
Top 6 Most Frequently Used Materials
To increase your knowledge of the roofing process, you should start by understanding some of the materials that are most commonly used. The one you choose will depend on where you live, what kind of slope you have to your roof, your preferred style, and other factors. The most common types include:
- Tile
- Metal
- Asphalt
- Wood
- Slate
- Synthetic
Tile
Tile is a durable roofing material that is usually made from concrete or clay. Geographically, this a common choice in the Southwest and Florida. It can be used to create various architectural looks, including Spanish, Mission, French, and English styles. One important consideration to keep in mind for tile is its weight. Before you install a tile roof, make sure the structure can support it.
Metal
If you choose to use metal shingles or panels on your roof, metal roofing can work for both low-sloped and high-sloped roofs. They can be constructed in a way that closely resembles other roofing options, depending on what aesthetic you want. Other reasons that people choose metal as their roofing material include:
- Long lifespan
- Strong resistance to weather and fire
- Light weight
Asphalt
For a long time, this was one of the most commonly used resources for builders. It continues to be popular especially for its strong fire resistance. Typically, asphalt comes in the form of shingles. These asphalt shingles are usually reinforced with either organic materials, such as wood, or fiberglass.
Wood
You can turn this type of roofing material into either shingles or shakes. Many homeowners love its natural look, and it is popular in California and the Pacific Northwest. You can use a wide variety of woods, including redwood, cedar, and southern pine. Whatever wood you choose, it should be durable enough to be used as a roofing material. You may be limited on the number of wood shingles or shakes you can use because of wood’s low fire resistance. A popular solution is coating them in fire-resistant material.
Slate
Slate roofs are more common in the Northeast, especially in states like Virginia, Vermont, Pennsylvania, and New York. Many of the older homes in this region have slate roofs. Depending on where the slate comes from, it will feature different textures and colors. It is extremely durable. If you are considering a slate roof, keep in mind that it is more expensive. It also requires special care and steps for installation.
Synthetic
Some people also opt for synthetic roofing materials. Synthetic options may mimic the look and feel of some of the materials previously listed. However, synthetic materials may not behave in the same way. It is important to do adequate research on synthetic options before you decide to buy. Speak to a trusted residential roofing expert for a professional opinion.
