If it’s time for a new roof, you may be contemplating which material to go with. Many homeowners simply go with the kind they currently have, but this doesn’t mean you have to. Feel free to switch things up! Here’s your guide to choosing the right roofing materials for your home.

Roofing Material Types

There are many types of roofing materials you can select from. The one you choose will depend on your budget, where you live, your personal preferences, and your home’s style. In this country, asphalt shingles are the most common type because they work with just about any kind of house and they’re the most affordable. But other options exist such as clay, metal, tile, and concrete. Let’s look at a few choices:

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingle roofs are durable and cost-effective, which is why they’re the most popular type, of which there are two: architectural and three-tab. Yes, there are different grades of shingles, but they are all comprised of a base mat coated with asphalt. Thus, they are able to withstand rain, hail, wind, and other weather events in nearly all climates. They also happen to be waterproof, fire resistant, and UV resistant. However, shingles offer a uniform look so if you want to be more unique and stand out from the rest, try another material.

Clay Tiles

Clay is an aesthetically pleasing roofing option featuring local charm and a unique layered look. With clay tiles, you get excellent durability against wind storms, earthquakes, salty sea air, and fires. Plus, they resist insect damage and rot, and are able to last 50 years or more.

However, clay tiles are heavy and as such need a sturdy roof structure to support that extra weight. Clay tiles are layered and interlocked individually, so if you have a steep-pitched roof, these may not work for you. Clay is more expensive than asphalt or metal roofing, and often requires more frequent repairs when tiles crack or break.

Concrete Tiles

Similar in durability to clay tiles, concrete tiles are actually lighter. They resist fires, wind, and earthquakes, too. Plus, you can customize the appearance of your exteriors with this unique roofing material. However, concrete is not as durable as clay tiles and won’t last as long.

Metal

Metal roofs give you a lot of creativity when it comes to designing or remodeling your home. You can incorporate anything from stamped steel to standing seams to vertical ribs. Metal is durable, lightweight, fire resistant, and lasts 50 to 75 years with good care. However, metal roofs cost more than asphalt shingles, plus they can get dented easily.

Slate

Slate tiles are both beautiful and durable. They are high-quality natural stone tiles that make for the most eco-friendly material you can buy. Slate can last between 100 and 150 years when properly installed by a professional. Slate roofs are fire-resistant and withstand all weather. However, they are quite heavy which means you may need to retrofit your roof to support their added weight. Because they are brittle, they can easily break.

Contact Hi-Tech Windows & Siding

Still not sure which roofing material is best for you? Click to schedule a no-obligation appointment and free quote. Or call us at 800-851-0900. We would be happy to schedule a consultation and inspection of your existing roof to provide the best recommendation on materials.