Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Types of Roofing Material
It is easy to decide that it is time to change your roof because it is leaking or has lost its beautiful looks that once enchanted you when it was new. It’s when you start thinking about the type of roof you will replace the old one with when you realize that it is no easy task.
According to Arizona Roofing Systems, a roof replacement company in Mesa, AZ, here are some of the factors you need to consider:
Cost: The amount of money you are willing to spend will determine the roofing material and style you will go for. You must prepare a budget for the project.
Location: Your home’s location and its unique weather conditions will influence the type of roofing you will do and the material you will use.
Structure: The existing structure may not suit certain roofing materials because of the way it is constructed or its strength such as accommodating the new roofing material.
Beauty: You may desire to accentuate the aesthetic look of your house with the new roof and, therefore, influence your choice.
Eco-friendly: This may draw your hand to settling for solar tiles as opposed to the ordinary tiles.
Legal regulations: The choice of your roofing material will depend on the local building regulations.
Roofing materials
Asphalt shingles
The most popular roofing material with almost two-thirds of all the houses donning asphalt shingles roof.
Advantages: They withstand incidents of strong wind waves and fire outbreaks well. They are cheaper, not heavy, and are suitable for sloping areas.
Disadvantages: They are less environment-friendly and do not last long, which means you may need to spend a lot in maintaining your roof frequently and eventually replace it. Worse still, if you live in a humid area, you will need to invest heavily in tackling algae attacks.
Metal roofing
This may include different metal roofing materials such as steel, copper, and iron.
Advantages: Metal roofing is light, durable, resistant to weather changes, can be recycled, energy efficient and is suitable to various slopes.
Disadvantages: Aesthetically, they are not eye-catching. Some people don’t like the look of a metal roof, and they can be moderately priced (steel) to very expensive (copper). Copper can develop a green patina with age, which homeowners may find unattractive or unappealing.
Plastic polymer
This is a specially engineered plastic shingle that resembles wooden shakes or slate but stronger.
Advantages: They last long thereby meaning you will not spend much of your resources in maintaining your roof. They come in a wide range of style to meet your taste. They are suitable to replace your old roof because they are light and offer good resistance to fire and the wind.
Disadvantages: They are not suitable for certain homes and are costly.
Slate
Aesthetically, it is the most eye-catching roofing material, giving roofs even of ordinary houses an elegant look.
Advantages: Easily recyclable, this is a very durable roofing material, which is also very resistant to weather elements and fire.
Disadvantages: They are not suitable for old or weak roof structures because they are heavy and costly.
Wooden shakes
This may be cedar or any other type of wood.
Advantages: Aesthetically beautiful with a natural look and recyclable, they give “life” to old houses.
Disadvantages: They are not fire resistant without special treatment. They do not last long and require constant maintenance.
Clay shingles
They are clay-based.
Advantages: They are energy efficient while giving your home a beautiful look.
Disadvantages: They are expensive and delicate to a storm, require frequent maintenance and are heavy for weak roof structures.
Concrete
Homeowners are starting to embrace it widely.
Advantages: This is a very durable roofing material, which is resistant to fire and fairly less expensive.
Disadvantages: It is heavy for old or weak roof structures, susceptible to winds and not very affordable.
However, it is advisable to consult a qualified contractor to guide you on the most suitable roof for your house. At Arizona Roofing Systems, the top roofing company in Mesa, Arizona, we can offer you advice should you have any questions.