Understanding Roofing Materials to Make the Best Choice for Your Home
Selecting a roofing system for your home should never be an afterthought. Your roof is a critical aspect of your home that requires making an informed decision. The roof you put over your head helps keep your family safe, insulated, and dry. It also greatly affects the overall look of your home. In this blog post, we break down the various roofing materials available, as well as the important factors homeowners need to consider before moving forward with a roof installation.
Roofing Materials
It’s great to have choices when it comes to roofing materials, but it’s important to make an informed decision. Choosing between all the various roofing materials can oftentimes feel overwhelming. Below, we have listed some of the more popular roofing options for homes here in the Southeast:
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most commonly used type of roofing material. This is because they are the least expensive option. The lifespan of standard asphalt shingles is approximately 25 years.
Cedar Shake
Usually sawn or split, wood shingles are often made of cedar, redwood, or southern pine. Similar to asphalt shingles, they have a lifespan of about 25 years but tend to cost twice as much.
Metal
Metal roofing comes in a variety of shapes and textures and is made from either steel, aluminum, copper, or lead. It is available in vertical tiles or panels that can resemble tile or shake. Although it is pricier than some of the other options, it is important to note that it may last up to 60 years.
Slate
Slate is a premium product, which means it’s very pricey and extremely heavy. But this also means it’s the most durable roofing material out there, lasting up to 100 years. Slate is waterproof, resists mold and fungus, and is flame-retardant.
A Breakdown of Important Roofing Factors
Since not every type of roofing material can be used on every type of roof, it’s important to talk to your roofing contractor about which materials would best work with your home. Below, we detail the important factors to consider when deciding which roofing material will best suit the needs of your home:
Roof Design/Aesthetics
The design of your roof will ultimately determine the roofing system and materials that are used. The pitch of the roof dictates the functionality required of the roofing shingles. Of course, we all want our homes to be aesthetically pleasing. So the roofing materials chosen should complement the exterior of the home.
System Durability
The longevity of your roofing system depends upon the durability of the roofing materials used. It’s a simple fact: you get what you pay for. Certain materials simply last longer than others. Select roofing materials that have long life spans which will stay put and save you money in the long run. Metal, tile, and architectural asphalt shingles can last up to 50 years with proper maintenance and care.
Cost
The truth is, most of us do not have access to unlimited funds. It is not uncommon for a budget to predominantly drive the choices available to homeowners. With that being said, it’s helpful to know that most roofing products are designed to imitate the look of original roofs. Asphalt shingles and metal, for instance, can look like wood, tile or even slate. So it’s possible to give your home a distinctive look while also remaining within your budget.
Climate
In order to ensure reliable protection for your home throughout the years, your choice of roofing materials should meet the demands of the climate in which you live. Some roofing materials are better at shedding rain and snow, while others are better at enduring heat and impact.
Having a high-quality roof over your head is not negotiable. That is why it’s best to choose a reputable, local business serving the greater Athens area. Call Peach State Roofing & Renovation to set up your consultation today!