Choosing the right roofing material can make your home look its best and protect your investment for years to come. Our guide to the different types of roofing will help you choose what’s right for your house and your budget.
Roofs are a major investment, so you want to choose a type that will last as long as possible and give you the most bang for your buck.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are a popular choice for homeowners because they’re durable, inexpensive and easy to install. They also come in a variety of colors and styles, making it possible to match your home’s aesthetic.
Shingles are made from an asphalt base mat and reinforced with coarse mineral granules, like ground limestone, trap rock, or slate guttering sunshine coast. They’re then topped with a saturant layer which includes talc, mica or sand.
Architectural shingles or dimensional shingles are a more sophisticated design option that uses several layers to give a roof a more unique look and to resist water better. They also last longer than three-tab shingles and offer manufacturer’s warranties for their durability.
They can be installed in slopes as low as 4 inches in 12 and as high as 21 inches in 12. Some shingle styles also have fire-resistant features to help protect your home in the event of a fire.
Metal Shingles
Metal shingles are an excellent option for homeowners looking for a durable roof that lasts for years. They’re also very energy efficient, can lower electricity costs, and provide a beautiful appearance.
There are several types of metal shingles to choose from, including G-90 galvanized steel (24-26-gauge coated steel), aluminum, and stone-coated steel tiles. All have a factory-applied paint finish that protects them from weather damage and carries a minimum 30-year warranty.
They’re available in a variety of styles and colors to match any house style or architectural preference. Roofing manufacturers also offer interlocking metal shingle tiles that mimic a wood shake, slate, or clay tile look.
Wood Shingles
Wood shingles offer a traditional appearance that can enhance the curb appeal of your home. They can be made from redwood, southern pine or cedar and come in a variety of colors and patterns.
Shingles are made of thin, precisely cut slabs of wood that protect your home from rain and wind. They may last up to 50 years in drier climates and 20 years in wet ones.
Shakes are thicker than shingles and can also be made from wood. They are a popular choice for rustic or Craftsman homes because of their hand-cut and highly textured appearance.
There are three types of wood shakes: grade 1 (top quality), grade 2 and flat-grain. Grade 1 is the highest quality, and it can be used for roofing or siding.
Clay Tiles
Clay tiles are a natural insulator that help regulate rooftop temperatures, saving energy costs. They are also fire and insect-resistant, making them one of the greenest roofing materials on the market.
Aside from their durability, clay tiles are also beautiful and can add to your home’s curb appeal. They’re available in a variety of distinctive profiles, a range of earthy colors, and unique finishes that suit any aesthetic or architectural style.
While durable and long-lasting, clay tiles are heavy and require structural reinforcement beneath them. They’re also brittle, so it’s important to avoid walking on them or resting heavy items on top of them. It’s also important to have a waterproof roof structure and proper flashing underneath to prevent leaks from occurring.
Rolled Roofing
Rolled roofing is one of the most inexpensive options for re-roofing smaller structures like garages, shops, gazebos, and sheds. However, it’s important to note that this type of roofing material will only last a few years and needs to be replaced eventually.
Aside from being a cheaper alternative to asphalt shingles, roll roofing is also easier to install and available in many different styles. It also provides up to 10 years of waterproofing and durability.
This low-sloped roofing material comes in easy-to-work-with rolls and can be installed by DIYers. It’s a great option for small projects and can be completed in a day or two.