There are various different ways to make a roof; it can be flat, pointed or some other variety, and it can also be made from various substances and materials. There was a time where our only options were asphalt shingles, slate, clay or concrete tiles, but now roofers and homeowners seem spoilt for choice. Here are some of the most popular types of roofing.
Asphalt Shingles
Despite being used for such a long time, this form of roofing has stood the test of time and is still the most common roofing material in all of America. This is because they’re incredibly effective in all types of weather conditions. They’re also relatively cheap to put up, however it should be expected that they’ll need to be replaced regularly as they can be damaged easier than other options.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is a much more durable roofing option, as its either vertical panels or tiles are expected to last for around 60 years. They’re great for colder climates as snow and rain simply slough off, but it also works in warm environments as it won’t burn. Residential metal roofing can be installed over the top of an existing roof, making for an easier installation job. There are drawbacks, though, mainly that they can be loud during a rainstorm and could potentially be dented by hail.
Solar Tiles
Solar tiles are an expensive form of tiling used to convert the sun’s heat energy into electricity for the home to use. They can generate up to 1kw of energy per 100 square feet and are really good for southern facing roofs in hot environments. Solar energy is a good way for homeowners to reduce their carbon footprint, and they may also help homeowners save money down the line. Still, there is a big initial cost involved when installing solar tiles due to the technology used.
Slate
Slate roofing is an awesome option as it has the potential of lasting well over 100 years. The material won’t burn in harsh sunlight, is waterproof, and resists mold and fungus really well, meaning that it’ll continue to look good for a long time. It’s great in wet climates but is expensive, heavy, and can easily be broken if stepped on. This also means it doesn’t do great with hail either.
Rubber slate is also an option as it’s far more malleable and can be cut with a knife to fit on intricate roofs such as those on older houses. They last just as long as regular slate but are far more prone to damage. They’re also hard to install, as roofing professionals that are trained in handling rubber slate may be hard to come by.
Clay and Concrete Tiles
These types of roofing are by far one of the most durable options as they can survive tornadoes, hurricanes, winds up to 125 miles per hour and even substantially sized earthquakes. They are really great in warm, dry climates, however, are incredibly heavy, so they may require extra support in the beams and joints of the roof structure to better support its weight.