There are many types of roofing materials you can choose from. Some people choose material based on their aesthetics, while others choose durability and longevity. As a homeowner, you should know your options when it comes to the beauty and structural integrity of your home.
Asphalt Shingle
When most people think of shingles, they typically envision asphalt shingles. Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material on homes in North America. They are durable, versatile and come in a variety of colors.
Asphalt shingles are produced in three varieties: strip shingles, dimensional shingles and luxury shingles.
Strip Shingles are builder-grade 3-Tab roofing shingles. They have a flat appearance, and generally cost and weigh less than other asphalt shingles.
Dimensional Shingles are also called architectural or laminate shingles. They are manufactured with multiple layers of asphalt to give a dimensional shape to the shingles.
Luxury Shingles would be the highest quality laminated shingle. Theses shingles offer the highest protection for wind and hail damage, as well as the best coloration and durability.
Standing Seam Metal
A standing seam metal roof refers to how the metal is fastened into place. The metal panels are fastened together with concealed clips. Generally, standing seam metal roofs are made from high-grade aluminum and steel. These types of roofs prevent water damage, and are generally longer lasting than shingled roofs. Is a metal roof right for you?
Corrugated Metal
Corrugated metal is sheets of galvanized aluminum or steel that have grooves or "ridges" in it. Corrugated metal is more structural strength that flat panels. The panels are overlapped to prevent water from seeping in, and can be much more cost-effective than other roofing options. Corrugated metal roofs are most often seen on sheds, patios, barns and carports, but can give any home a rustic, Texas feel.
Slate
Slate tile shingles are manufactured from natural stone, making it a premium roofing system. Slate can add beautiful dimension to your roof, as well as elegant curb appeal for people who want to make a statement with their home. Slate is not only durable, but it's nearly impervious to water. Slate roofing is fire-resistant, adding an extra layer of protection for your home.
Clay Tiles
If you want the Spanish or Mediterranean style, you want clay tiles. Designed primarily to keep out rain, clay tiles also protect against wind, hail and even fire. Clay tiles don't decay, so the longevity of a clay tile roof outlasts most other roof types.
Clay tiles come in a variety of shapes: curved, flat, fluted, or interlocking. They also can come in a variety of colors, but most are a version of the terracotta color most people are familiar with.
Shake
A premium roofing system, shake shingles are made from cedar wood. Shake roofs usually last about 30 years, and because it's wood, it can withstand hail much better than other roofing systems. You can choose if you want your shake shingles hand-cut or tapersawn. Hand-cut shake shingles gives a rugged, rustic feel, while tapersawn shake shingles are more smoother appearance.
There are three types of Shake Shingles
Common: As the name suggests, these are common pieces of wood. These shingles are usually made out of the leftover Cedar from milling the trees. It is the lowest quality of shakes, so it won't last as long.
Select: These cuts are usually about 80% Straight Grain, with about 20% Common Cedar cuts. Because these are a higher quality, the durability is better, as well.
100% Straight Grain: Each Cedar shingle is hand-selected and cut for premium quality
Talk with your sales representative about which material you would like to use for your home or building. He or she can show you a multitude of options for each category and walk you through the process of choosing the best material that will fit into your budget. As technology improves, some companies offer alternatives to the traditional roofing materials, such as F-Wave, who offers a synthetic shingle.
It's important to remember that if you are filing an insurance claim, the insurance company will only pay for the type of roof you currently have on your home. You would be responsible for any costs of upgrading your current roofing system.
