The number of roofing options you have to choose from can be overwhelming, and the price differences can make it even harder. You can spend as little as $4,500 to as much as $30,000, but there are some materials that are commonly used because they can provide superior protection and longevity. The big question is whether you want a sloped or flat roof option, which could help you to narrow it down. And within each group, there are differences in cost, durability, energy efficiency, and aesthetics.
Here are ten of the top materials used in roofing.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are made of fiberglass layers that have been saturated with asphalt and have been treated with a layer of granules, which allow them to reflect ultraviolet light. They have been in use for many years. And with approximately 75% of the market share, they’re still the top-selling roofing product in the country. However, its dominance has been steadily shrinking.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing has made many advances in the last 30 years, and there are many options with regard to appearance and performance. Most of the market share that asphalt shingles lost has been taken over by metal. In fact, it makes up approximately 15% of new roofs in the United States. With options that can last up to 100 years, metal roofs can give you an incredible amount of durability. And the maintenance costs are much lower than many other materials. You will, however, have to pay more upfront if you want to use this option in your home.
Zinc Roofing
Zinc is a material that has a natural resistance to corrosion. In fact, galvanized steel is dipped in a zinc-aluminum alloy. Because of its longevity, approximately 70% of the roofs in Europe are made of zinc. Not only is it durable, but it also has the ability to heal itself. Zinc roofs can last over 100 years, and it forms a patina that can resist corrosion. So if it gets scratched, it will fill up and eventually disappear. Dirt and debris can be washed away with rain or a hose, so it doesn’t need a lot of maintenance. And it can be either painted or left untreated.
Copper Roofing
Copper is a type of metal with unmistakable beauty, and it can be used as either the primary material or as accent roofing for dormers or some other area. Copper looks great on your roof. And whether it’s polished or allowed to form a patina, it can give your home that classic beauty. Not only is it resistant to fire and insects, but it can also last over 100 years. However, it will cost a lot more upfront. In fact, it’s one of the most expensive roofing materials on the market.
Natural Slate
Slate is a classic roofing option that has been imitated by asphalt, composite, and metal shingles. It also offers a type of luxury and sustainability that’s truly second-to-none. Most of the slate being produced in the United States is mined and sold by companies in Vermont, and it offers a kind of beauty that can fit a variety of styles. You can find slate in a variety of colors — including different shades of green, gray, red, brown, blue, and purple. And because it can last for centuries, its durability is outstanding.
Clay Titles
Clay is another type of roofing material that can last a long time, and it can give your home a more traditional look. Standard clay tiles are the most common, but there are lightweight mixes that can offer a 40% reduction in weight. Aside from the traditional barrel style (which has a high profile and is the most popular), there are many other options on the market. Some of them include domed, tapered, shingle, and shake looks that have fairly flat profiles. You can expect clay tiles to last at least 50 years, but many clay roofs last twice as long.
Concrete Tiles
Concrete tiles were meant to be a lower-cost alternative to clay. But while the cost is lower, so is its lifespan. Like clay, you can find them in a variety of styles and colors — except the cost is 20% to 40% lower. With regard to its resistance to the elements, concrete is comparable to clay. And while it doesn’t last as long, you can expect it to last 40-70 years (depending on the product and how well it’s maintained). However, clay can absorb more moisture than clay. So, it requires more maintenance.
Wood Shingles and Shakes
Wood shingles are typically made of split cedar shakes, which can add beauty to any home. They’re versatile enough to fit any type of home — from traditional to modern. And the cost is reasonable. They can also last twice as long as asphalt shingles if they’re well maintained. Cedar can resist most of the elements, including moisture and insects. And its resistance to the wind is better than asphalt. But like other wood products, it’s prone to fire damage.
Composites Shingles and Shakes
Composite shingles and shakes are made of a synthetic material that’s made of a mixture of plastics, polymers, fiberglass, and calcium carbonate. But these blends can vary with each manufacturer. They look a lot like the real thing, especially when they’re installed. And they have a tremendous amount of durability. Unlike wood and asphalt, it doesn’t have a tendency to rot or produce mildew. So, its longevity is three times greater than either of these products. And because it has a lightweight design, they weigh about the same as asphalt shingles. Not to mention, it has both a Class A Fire Rating and a Class 4 Impact Rating.
Rubber Shingles
Rubber shingles are also made to look like the real thing, and most of them are made out of recycled tires. If you want a slate look, you can get it with rubber for half the price. And it will still last 30-50 years. Compared to wood shake, the rubber will last 10-15 years longer and will cost about the same. Rubber is also resistant to moisture, heat, insects, strong winds, impact, and even fire. The maintenance requirements are also a lot less.
If you want to work with one of the best roofers in Corpus Christi, get in touch with Bayfront Roofing and Construction today!
