What Are the Most Popular Roofing Materials?

roofing

With so many roofing options available today, selecting a material for your home can be challenging. You want the color and style to compliment your home’s aesthetic, while also providing longevity and durability against the elements. There are several different factors to consider when searching for a roof replacement material, including the style of your home, weather patterns, and your design preference. Let’s explore some of the most popular roofing options available and the unique benefits they offer.

Asphalt Shingles

One of the most popular roofing materials homeowners choose for their roof replacement is asphalt shingles. Asphalt comes in many different color and design options, with the most common varieties being fiberglass or organic materials. These shingles offer incredible durability and depending on the climate, asphalt can have a lifespan of 20 to 50 years! Many residential roofing contractors will recommend asphalt shingles not only for durability but also for the affordability factor. No matter the style of your home or the shape of your roof, asphalt shingles are a great addition to any property.

Wood Shingles

Wood shingles are a great roofing material for homeowners that are looking for energy efficiency and a natural finish to their home. It’s common to see wood shingles or shakes installed on Cape Cod-style homes, as well as properties located near the ocean. They typically consist of pine, cedar, or redwood and are designed to weather over time. This means that as your home ages, your shingles will also change and transform to a beautiful gray color. Even in the most demanding environments, wood shingles will resist shrinking and warping! Be sure to check your local fire code regulations for wood shingles before scheduling a roof replacement contractor appointment. There are treatments that can be added to the wood to make the shingles fire-resistant.

Clay Tile

Homeowners looking for a unique, textured finish to their homes often choose clay tiles for their roofing material. This material is eco-friendly, non-combustible, and exceptionally strong. When installed properly and in the appropriate climate, you can expect the tiles to last for over 100 years! You won’t have to worry about damage from wind or fire, the clay material is heavy and the installation is designed to be permanent. Due to the longevity and heavy-weight of materials, these roofs may be more expensive up-front but they are a great investment for any home. It’s common to see clay tiles on Mediterranean and southwestern style homes.

Metal Roofing

Another popular material, metal roofs provide homeowners with durability and an exceptionally long lifespan. The most popular feature of these roofs is the ability to stand up to the most extreme weather conditions, such as temperature fluctuations, hail, and wind. They are typically made of aluminum, copper, or zinc and are available in countless different colors and design styles. You won’t have to worry about the roof degrading over time, the metal material is resistant to the types of moss and mildew that usually grow on roofs. Reach out to your local roof replacement contractor with any questions regarding metal roof replacement.

Slate Roofing

Slate roofs are a great option for homeowners that are looking for guaranteed longevity. With a slate roof, you won’t have to worry about damage from weather or fire thanks to the extremely heavy materials. They can last for over 100 years before they start to show signs of fading or wear, which makes them a great investment for any roof replacement in northern VA. They are not available in as many colors as other roofing options but can still provide beautiful blues, reds, greens, and purple hues. Due to the heavy-weight of the slate material, your home will need to be assessed by a roofing professional before installation can take place. It’s important that your home is structurally sound prior to installing the slate to ensure no damage occurs.

Remember to consider factors such as your environment, climate, and home-style before choosing a material for your roof replacement. You want to be sure that the material will withstand changing temperatures and also moisture levels. No matter what your personal design preferences are, there is a roofing material that can fit your needs.

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