A major decision for any homeowner is selecting the right roofing option: materials impact structural integrity, energy efficiency, and aesthetics (which is important when selling a home). First and foremost, it is important to ensure you understand each roofing option’s performance characteristics in order to make an informed decision that is both appropriate for you and within your budget. At Hart Roofing Solutions we help you find a roofing material that performs best and will provide you with the best value for the duration of your ownership.
Asphalt Shingles: The Ever-Popular Choice
When it comes to roofing materials, asphalt shingles are far and away the most common type in North America due to price and available variety of colors/styles.
Types:
- 3 Tab: Basic, cost-effective (the cheapest), flat, and regular.
- Architectural (laminated): Thicker, dimensional, basic styles mimic natural wood and slate and higher-end options have multiple layers which add thickness and dimension to mimic natural hardwoods & slate.
- Designer (brand signifies big money): Seen as high-end, with unique shapes, sizes, colors, often mimics natural slate or natural wood shakes out of Michigan.
Pros: Low initial investment, unlimited color and styles available, easy and quick to install and/or repair.
Cons: Life expectancy (15-30 years), less effective in extreme weather can shift in ice storms, high winds can wreak havoc on asphalt shingles.
Metal Roofing: Durability and Modernism
There are a lot more choices available than metal roofs, are becoming increasingly more affordable, durable, typically long-lasting, and there’s increased interest in that modern aesthetic. If you’re considering a roofing system that is long-term, metal roofs can be a great investment in your home.
Pros: Highly fire resistant; rot and insect resistant; also resistant to extreme weather; lifespan is more than 40 years to 70+ years; energy efficient – heat reflects off of it; sustainable – recycled content and recyclable.
Cons: Cost can be expensive up front; noise – can be noisy in heavy rain or hail.
Tile Roofing: Timeless Beauty and Durability
Tile (either clay or concrete) roofing provides a unique Mediterranean or Spanish style with elegance and durability.
Pros: Huge curb appeal, lasts 50-100+ years, naturally fire resistant, good insulation
Cons: Heavy weight (sometimes requires reinforcement), fragile (can break), expensive upfront cost, especially because of installation limitations.
Wood Shake and Shingle Roofing: Natural Look
Wood shakes and shingles provide a rustic natural style. Wood shakes are rough (split) and wood shingles are smooth (sawn).
Pros: Natural unique look, good insulation.
Cons: Regular maintenance (cleaning and sealing), fire hazards, rot, insect damage, shorter lifespan (20 – 40 years).
Slate Roofing: The Essence of Quality and Timelessness
Slate is a material known for its overall durability, natural aesthetic beauty, and sense of timelessness. Slate is well-known to be the highest quality roofing material, and many therefore consider it the best roofing material.
Pros: Extremely durable (75-200+ years) and fire-proof; water resistant; unique aesthetic/value.
Cons: Very heavy (needs substantial more structural support), highest upfront cost, specialized installation.
The Important Factors in Selecting Roofing Material
There are many factors to consider for selection:
- Climate: Consider how the climate of your area (such as sun, rain, wind, hail) will help determine your decisions. If you live in an area where severe storms happen frequently, consider impact-resistant materials.
- Budget: You want to compare your upfront cost to long-term value (maintenance, longevity).
- Aesthetics: Your roofing materials should go with the style of your home, as well as your personal tastes.
- Maintenance: Think about what maintenance is required for each material.
- Longevity: Each material will have a different number of years, which determines how often you will have to go through this replacement process.
Your Path to the Ideal Roof Starts Here
Selecting a roofing material can impact your home’s safety, value, and appearance. At Hart Roofing Solutions, we provide expertise and professionalism. We will guide you through the process, outline the advantages and disadvantages, and assist you in selecting the ideal roof for your home and budget. Call us today for a consultation to have a roof that lasts long, looks amazing, and is energy efficient!
