Homeowners are often faced with the choice between different roofing styles and types. In most cases, choosing the right one for your needs requires a careful comparison of all factors, including the budget, each roofing style’s pros and cons, and how the roofing material fits your current climatic conditions.
FIXD Roofing, a leading roofing company, understands the many considerations to compare when choosing a roofing material. They have identified the most important considerations, the commonest roofing styles, and their pros and cons.
Important Considerations for Choosing a Roofing Style
It costs a lot to roof a building, so it is understandable why many property owners take their time in choosing the perfect roofing material and quality for their needs. To help you choose the best roofing style and type, below are some important considerations to keep in mind;
- Durability: Inquire into how the roofing style, type, or material reacts to prevalent climatic conditions
- Longevity: Consider how long the roofing style or material will last under your location’s weather conditions
- Slope: Consider the existing roofing structure or the necessary slope needed for the correct installation
- Weight: Consider the roofing material’s weight and whether the existing roof carcass can support the weight
- Aesthetics: Consider the appearance and appeal of the roofing material, including the color options available.
- Local codes: Speak to local professional roofers to find out if the roof meets local codes
- Budget: Consider the cost in relation to your existing budget.
Pros and Cons of Different Roofing Styles
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingle roofing is the commonest type of roofing in America and across its Northern region. They are a common choice because of many reasons, including cost and aesthetics.
Asphalt shingles are available in three options, the 3-tab asphalt shingles, which were the most common some years ago; architectural asphalt shingles, which are currently the most widely used and adopted option; and the luxury asphalt shingles. The luxury asphalt shingles are the most expensive in the lineup and offer long-lasting protection.
Pros
- Affordable and easy to install
- Good fire and wind resistance properties
- Moderate weight and are perfect for different slope types
- Can be replaced individually when shingles are damaged
Cons
- They are not very durable (lasts about 20 years) and may be compromised during heavy windstorms
- They require experience and expertise for correct installation or else the outcome can be dissatisfying
- Not an eco-friendly roofing option
Metal Roofing
Metal roofs have become widely accepted due to their many benefits, including availability in different patterns and colors. Made from galvanized steel, corrugated, or flat metal sheets, they have excellent fire and weather resistance properties.
Pros
- Metal roofs are durable (lasting up to 50 years), lightweight, and eco-friendly
- They require low maintenance and are available in different styles and patterns
- Have good fire and wind resistance
- Have good insulation properties and can help to improve energy efficiency
Cons
- Metal roofs are expensive compared to asphalt shingles
- The roofing material often expands and contracts in reaction to temperature changes
- It can often be noisy during heavy rain, wind, and hailstorm
- There’s often a change in appearance when a damaged part is replaced over the years.
Plastic Polymer
Plastic polymer roofs are synthetic products made from wooden shake molds. These roofing materials look like wooden shakes, thus improving the appearance and appeal of properties. Unlike wooden shakes, they are much more durable and long-lasting.
Pros
- Plastic polymer roofs are durable, lightweight, and have a low maintenance requirement
- They have great fire and wind resistance properties and are light to moderate weight
- They are available in different patterns and styles
Cons
- Plastic polymers are more expensive compared to asphalt shingles
- Often undergo uneven color changes over the years
Wooden Shakes
They are made from thin layers of wood, usually cedar or pine. They offer aesthetic beauty and are sought-after by homeowners wanting to add character to their properties.
Pros
- Wooden shakes or shingles are lightweight, eco-friendly, and easy to install
- They are less expensive than common roofing options and offer a natural and timeless appearance
Cons
- They require high maintenance and can be expensive, especially as they are prone to damage
- They are highly susceptible to rot and may require frequent replacement at regular intervals
- They are prone to leaks and breaks
- They are not resistant to fire or wind, making them a liability for most property owners.
- Color can often fade, leading to irregular appearance.
Clay Tile
Clay tiles are not very popular in most modern homes because of their weight and cost. However, they give the property a distinct look.
Pros
- They are energy efficient, relatively fire resistant, and eco-friendly
- They offer an aesthetic appearance
Cons
- They are heavy and fragile.
- They have low durability and are expensive.
With the information above, it should be easier to pick your next roofing material. However, you should speak to a local roofer if you’re still in doubt.
