So, you’re building a new home, or maybe you’ve realized your house needs a little help in the roofing department.
Now comes the decisions.
We can all agree that good roofing is super important for the endurance and quality of our homes, right?
However, deciding what kind of roofing is best can be difficult!
Today, we are going to discuss the pros and cons
of some of the most popular roofing materials of 2020.
Cement or Clay Tiles
Pros
Clay tile is a very beautiful type of roofing. It has a lovely
curbside appeal, and is sure to make your home stand out.
The tiles are durable and require very little maintenance over the years.
Another big benefit is that this type of roofing is environmentally friendly.
As HGTV says, “Clay and concrete tiles are long-lasting and non-combustible, and concrete tiles are energy efficient.”
Cons
On the other hand, clay tiles are expensive. This can be a huge factor in some people’s decision.
Another disadvantage is that clay tiles are quite heavy and can be difficult to install.
If you choose to use clay tiles, you would certainly need an excellent and experienced roofer.
Asphalt Shingles
Pros
Asphalt shingles have been a very commonly used roofing material for years and for some very understandable reasons.
This type of roofing is very cost effective. It is also amongst the easiest to install.
Add to that the benefit of many different styles and colors to choose from, and asphalt shingles are a great choice for many homeowners
Cons
Despite being a favorite among many Americans, this type of roofing still does have it’s faults.
One of the issues with Asphalt shingles is that it is susceptible to damage from severe weather.
A bad windstorm can rip some shingles off, especially if they were not properly installed.
Another thing to consider is that Asphalt shingles are not environmentally friendly.
Slate Roofing
Pros
Slate roofing can be very attractive and comes in a variety of types.
It is not very common, so it will definitely give your home a unique look.
A big benefit of slate roofing is that it is stable and lasts a very long time.
You won’t need to worry about fixing or redoing it which can be a big relief.
Another great advantage is that it is kind to the environment.
Isn’t it always nice to know you are doing your part in helping the planet?
Cons
One reason slate roofing is not very common is that it can be quite expensive.
Much like clay roofing, slate roofing is very heavy and difficult to install onto your house.
Wood Shingles
Pro
Taylor Made Roofing says,
“Wood shingles serve the same function as their asphalt and tile counterparts, but they will give your home a more natural look.
Plus, some builders recommend them because they can improve your building’s insulation”
Wood shingles can be just as durable as asphalt shingles, depending on the climate where you live and they are much better for the environment.
Con
If you live in a humid or wet climate, the wood may begin to degrade faster than the average roofing material.
You should also consider that bugs such as termites can sometimes cause issues in this type of roofing.
So make sure it’s a good idea for your area before considering this beautiful, unique roofing material.
Metal Roofing
Pros
Metal roofing has a lot of benefits, and is another commonly used roofing material in today’s world.
Metal roofing is incredibly durable and sustainable. It will last for years and you won’t have to worry about replacing it.
The installation for this type of roof is very simple and quick.
Both the fact that that metal roofing is sustainable, and that it installation is quick and easy are sure to save you money in the end which is a plus!
Cons
Some things to consider when choosing this roofing type is that upfront metal roofing is not cheap.
Metal roofing is more expensive than asphalt shingles which is probably why those are a little more common.
Another problem some people have with metal roofs is the noise.
Well some individuals find the rain on a metal roof peaceful, others can’t stand it!
That is certainly a factor to consider when thinking about installing a metal roof.
Solar
Pros
AWM Constructions says it best,
“Solar roofing is a legitimate option for residential homes. Solar shingles or photovoltaic shingles are the most popular ones. They are mostly just solar panels that are designed to look like and function as conventional roofing materials while still producing electricity.”
An obvious but big advantage of solar roofing is that you will be saving money every month on electricity.
Along with that you will be helping the planet by reducing energy waste.
Cons
For most people the cost and the effort is what is keeping us from trying solar roofing. It seems inconvenient and expensive to many of us.
And it is true that it’s substantially more expensive than some other roofing materials.
However, it is becoming more affordable and convenient as time goes on.
It’s likely that over the next 50 years we will see more and more people giving solar roofing a try.