Roofing Materials

Recently, I wrote about selecting roofing. Now it’s time to learn about roofing material options. Here’s a rundown on the most common materials.

Photo courtesy of James A. Stepp,
Lexicon Media

Asphalt and composition shingles are known for durability and ease of installation—if you’re installing shingles yourself, this is your most DIY-friendly option. They’re a relatively inexpensive material, but remember that you get what you pay for—these shingles don’t boast the distinctive look as other options (although dimensional products emulate the look of wood shakes), and they are subject to damage in extreme weather. You can get 15 to 30 years of wear from standard-weight shingles if you check and replace damaged ones a couple of times a year; look for heavier shingles if you want your roof to last longer. Learn more about asphalt and composition roofing.

Wood shakes and shingles can be pricey, but you’re purchasing a product known for its distinctive appearance and long lifespan. Prices vary depending on the wood species (consider cedar, which resists decay), the type (shingles are sawn on both sides, shakes may be hand-split), grade (grade 1 is your best bet), and weight (shingles are smaller and lighter). Learn more about cedar shakes and shingles.

Metal roof with asphalt look
Photo courtesy of James A. Stepp,
Lexicon Media

Metal roofing is durable and long-lasting. It may be made from steel, aluminum, or copper (the latter is the priciest option) in styles including standing-seam, corrugated, or faux-shake. If you’re replacing a roof, metal is a great choice because it can even be installed over composition shingles. Because metal conducts heat, however, you’ll need to insulate below the roofing—and you may wish to use reflective coatings too. Learn more about metal roofing.

Tile roofing has a long lifespan and creates a distinctive look, particularly with the abundance of available glaze colors. It’s an energy-efficient, noncombustible option—but it’s also one of the most expensive roofing materials. If you opt for tile, you’ll need to consult with a professional about necessary roof support because the tiles, which are made from pulverized clay and water, are incredibly heavy. Although tile roofing is durable, it’s a good idea to check for cracked or chipped tile a couple of times a year. Learn more about tile roofing.

In addition to these common roofing materials, you might also wish to consider slate, concrete tile, laminated, or rubber composite shingles. Curious to know about any of these? Let me know and I’ll gladly post more!

In the meantime, if you’re looking for more information on roofing materials, This Old House provides an informative rundown. And Do It Yourself offers some handy info too.

What roofing materials do you swear by—and which can you live without? Let me know!

Until Monday,
The Home Know-It-All

Comments

[Droitwich Builders]

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