Are you in the process of building a new home or replacing the roof of your existing home? With so many types of roofing materials on the market, it can take a while to find the best ones for you.
Learn more about the best roofing materials available today and find the right fit for your home.
Types of Roofing Materials
From wood shingles to solar tiles, roofing has come a long way. We’ve put together a comprehensive list of the most popular roofing material options for your home:
Asphalt Shingles
The vast majority of American houses use asphalt shingles because they are affordable and durable in the face of many elements. They also come in a variety of attractive styles.
While there are a few different types of roof shingles including this material, many of those used today are made with a fiberglass mat that is more water-resistant than organic asphalt.
Wood Shingles and Shakes
For those who appreciate natural beauty and a rustic style, wood shingles and shakes can be a popular roofing material option. However, be sure to use wood shingles that have been treated for fire safety. Untreated wood has a Class C fire rating and also requires more maintenance. You should also check building codes, as some areas prone to wildfires do not allow wood shingles.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is becoming increasingly popular because of its durability. Aluminum, steel and zinc are the most common materials used today.
Metal roofing can mimic the appearance of shingles, shakes, slate and tile. It also has a longer lifespan than many other types of roofing materials, lasting 50 to 100 years.
Roof Tiles
Today’s roof tiles are made in traditional clay, a lightweight concrete blend or fiber-cement tiles made from wood and clay blended into the concrete. Tile roofing offers a luxurious aesthetic for homeowners concerned about curb appeal while maintaining an impressive lifespan of 50 years or longer.
However, tile is heavy and may require additional framing support, leading to higher costs.
Natural and Composite or Vinyl Slate Tiles
Natural slate tiles are incredibly durable, but they are also heavy. Many homeowners today prefer synthetic vinyl slate because it costs less and doesn’t weigh as much.
While genuine slate can be costly and requires careful maintenance, it is one of the best roofing material options in terms of sustainability because it will last a lifetime and can be reused and recycled.
Tesla Solar Tiles
While many homeowners are making strides toward sustainability, solar panels haven’t seen much popularity in roofing because they are expensive and often unattractive. Tesla solar tiles, on the other hand, are designed to look like standard tiles with the benefits of solar energy.
Tesla solar tiles are great in theory, especially if building green is a high priority for you. However, these tiles have only been installed in a handful of homes since their introduction to the market. As of now, it’s hard to say whether the real-world applications are as practical as lab performance.
Flat Roof Options
If your roof is flat rather than steep-slope, your roofing material options will look a bit different. Standard tiles on a flat roof will result in leaks due to their overlapping design. A PVC membrane or a coating of spray-on silicone or tar can ensure that your flat roof is air and watertight.
Contact Atticare Today
For homeowners in the San Francisco Bay Area, Los Angeles, or the New York and New Jersey area, Atticare is your one-stop destination for issues with your attic or crawl space, HVAC and roofing.
Get in touch with us at one of our three areas of service today. We look forward to helping you create a healthier, more energy-efficient home.
