Roofing Options
Here are a few of the options available with the pros and cons.
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It’s estimated that 75% of homes have shingled roofs due to the lower cost of the materials.
Here are the Pros and Cons.
PROS: Asphalt Shingles
- Asphalt shingles are affordable and come in a wide array of colors, textures, and a variety of thicknesses.
- Some are even treatable for mold and mildew, bringing more life to the roof of your home.
- Another key point with asphalt shingles is that they are easier to install, saving you money.
CONS: Asphalt Shingles
- The asphalt shingle stands the possibility of deterioration during sudden weather changes.
- Any ventilation issues in your attic could shorten the lifespan of your rooftop due to mold and mildew.
- Asphalt is mainly easy to maintain, but more frequent inspections of your roof may be necessary to check for lifting or wear and tear to the shingles.
One other note about asphalt shingles roofing options…
These shingles come in two types of material, organic and fiberglass.
Organic shingles are a paper product coated with asphalt that makes them waterproof.
Fiberglass shingles use fiberglass resin coating, which provides a little more protection for fires.
There are always new developments and technology improving asphalt shingles; call us to discover the latest and greatest advancements with asphalt shingles.
Clay or Concrete Tiles
To begin with, here is the difference between clay and concrete…
Clay tiles come from the earth’s natural clay, and to remove the moisture, they get baked in a kiln.
Manufactured concrete tiles come from cement added to lime, sand, and water.
The manufacturer mixes different dyes to create a specific color of concrete tiles.
Or they can leave them their natural gray color, depending on the homeowner’s choice.
Cost may be a consideration when it comes to a clay roof. The manufacturing process to dry the natural clay is about double the price of concrete.
PROS: Clay or Concrete
- Both clay and concrete are the most robust roofing materials in the marketplace. They are both maintenance-friendly and durable.
- Concrete and clay tiles can withstand rain, sleet, hail, and high winds and stand up to snow.
- Due to its natural heat resistance, clay or concrete roofing is energy efficient.
- Lifespan is another advantage. These tiles will endure year after year.
- These tiles are pleasing to the homeowner’s eye, and they come in different shapes and colors. They leave a natural southwestern feel to the home.
CONS: Clay or Concrete
- The cost of these materials is higher than any of the other materials available.
- The weight of the tiles may create an issue for some homeowners. The wood in your attic will need reinforcement to handle the weight of the concrete or clay tiles. The contractor will add this cost to the job.
- These tiles can be fragile to walk on. To avoid breakage and damage, only professionals should do the maintenance and inspections.
- The underlayment may last from ten to twenty years from installation. Only professionals should do the replacement of your roof.
- The overall cost can be high.
Slate
Keep in mind that as roofing options, slate is an extra heavy material that provides pros and cons as a roofing choice.
PROS: Slate
- Slate is durable and could last up to 100 years, whereas asphalt shingles last 20 to 30 years.
- These are an excellent choice on the green scale because they are recyclable.
- If you are looking for a unique look and curb appeal to your home, then you may want to consider a slate roof.
- Another benefit with a slate roof is that it provides fire protection for your home.
CONS: Slate
- A slate roof installation requires someone experienced with slate materials. By all means, ask your roofing contractor about their experience with slate. And you may want to ask for referrals.
- An improperly installed slate roof will deteriorate faster than an asphalt rooftop.
- The weight of the slate tiles is extreme. So, be sure to have your home checked to ensure the wood attic structure can handle the extra weight.
- Slate is fragile; that can also be a disadvantage when walked on. Be sure to use an expert when it comes time to inspect, clean, and maintain your slate roof.
- Cost is another possible negative. The slate tiles are more expensive than other roofing materials.
Metal
Metal roofs are lighter than many other roofing materials and might be a good choice for your roof. Metal roofs come from aluminum, copper, zinc, and stainless steel materials.
PROS: Metal
- These metals are more lightweight than concrete or slate materials. The attic’s structure won’t need as much reinforcement.
- The durability provides a lifespan of 20 – 30 years more than an asphalt rooftop.
- Metal provides an excellent option for larger buildings such as businesses. Metal offers a combination of strength and lower weight levels.
- This roof is a life-saver with Mother Nature’s effects. It is fire-resistant and has the strength to withstand hail and heavy rains and winds. And, much of the snowfall tends to slip off the rooftop on its own.
- Metal roofs are energy efficient, saving on heating and cooling costs.
- Another benefit of metal roofs is that they don’t rot, split or crack.
CONS: Metal
- Possible corrosion can happen with metal roofs requiring roof inspections and more maintenance.
- Metal roofs can be tricky because many metals are very slippery to walk on. Again, call an expert when it comes time to go up on the rooftop.
- Noise from the elements of weather can be an issue for homeowners.
Metal roofs offer excellent reflection qualities. A metal roof can also keep a house cooler and withstand more adverse weather conditions.
Deciding on roofing materials can be overwhelming and stressful.
However, we can help…
Call Reitz Roofing at 303-466-0161 or email us and schedule a time so you can speak with a professional about what you’re looking for.
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