Choosing the best roofing material for your home can be a daunting task, hence you need Birmingham’s trusted roofer to help you narrow down your choices. Many homeowners think this process is simple and they do it alone. Unfortunately, they end up choosing cheaper materials that may not look good after a few years.
Your home’s roof is the first line of defense against the elements, therefore, it’s essential to be knowledgeable of the options available. Aside from aesthetics and durability, choosing the right roofing material is also important because the material you choose can affect the resale value of your house and make a big difference in energy efficiency.
This article will provide a comprehensive overview of roofing materials and how to make the best choice.
Types of Roofing Materials
Standing Seam Metal Roof
Standing seam metal roofing is a relatively new type of construction that’s gaining popularity in regions with heavy snowfall. One of the main benefits of standing seam metal roofing is its durability. The seams between each panel are usually interlocked, thus providing extra support and making it easier to repair any tears or holes in the panels. This benefit makes standing seam metal roofs much more resistant to damage. They also require less maintenance over time.
Standing seam roofs can be installed by professionals or DIYers alike. However, they require more work than most other types of metal roofing because they are not as simple to install. Therefore, you need to ensure that your contractor understands how to use all necessary equipment and materials properly during installation before starting work on your new metal roof.
Composite (Synthetic) Shingle Roof
Composite shingles also known as synthetic shingles are made from engineered polymers and recycled rubber and plastic. They stand as a replacement for natural slate. However, they are more lightweight. A composite shingle roof is a great option for buildings that can’t hold the weight of natural slate.
Composite shingles are not as durable as natural slate, however, they can last for about 50 years, which means you can enjoy the benefits of a new roof for decades without having to worry about replacing it. They are a great option for homeowners looking for a durable and low-maintenance roof.
Asphalt Shingle Roof
Asphalt shingle roof is another popular roofing material in many homes today. It gained popularity due to its affordability and versatility. They are primarily made of asphalt shingles. Asphalt shingle roofs come in three different dimensions namely dimensional, luxury, and 3-tab. Dimensional is the most popular, followed by 3-tab. Luxury shingles are also popular, but twice as costly as dimensional shingles.
Asphalt shingle roofing is a popular and economical choice for many construction projects. It’s easy to install, and also comes with a warranty of about 30 years, depending on the quantity and condition of the shingles.
Slate Roof
Slate roofing is a great way to add a unique look to your home. It’s made from natural slate tiles and other roofing materials and can be installed on almost any type of building, from houses to businesses.
It takes a long time to install, this is because there are many different pieces and joints involved in making one properly, therefore you need to plan, however, it’s one of the most durable types of roofs available today, therefore you won’t have to worry about it falling apart after only a few years.
Membrane Roofing
Membrane roofing is a great option for homeowners and businesses alike with low-pitch or flat roofs. It comes in a variety of colors, styles, and designs to fit your home’s aesthetic. Membrane roofs are easy to install, which makes them an attractive choice for people who want an affordable option with minimal maintenance.
Factors That Determine the Type of Roofing Material to Choose
Before you decide on the roofing materials to go for, the following are some tips to guide you:
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Style
The above roofing materials give your home different styles and look, therefore you must be able to decide on your home’s final look before choosing a material. However, you may need the help of a professional constructor when making this decision.
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Budget
Since roofing materials come at varying prices, you must consider your budget while making a decision.
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Durability
Your roof will be exposed to different elements of nature, therefore you must ensure you choose a roofing material that is durable enough to withstand different weather conditions.
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Weight
The roofing materials come in different weights. Therefore you choose a roofing material that’s robust enough to bear the weight of the roof.
With the wide variety of roofing materials available today, it can be difficult to determine which one is best for you. Fortunately, the above general guidelines coupled with the help of a professional contractor will help you decide which option meets your needs.