It keeps you safe. It makes your house look good. And it does burn a hole in your pocket. Roofing constitutes to one of the major expenditures a homeowner has to face.
What makes it even worse? One wrong choice and you can end up going through everything all over again – choosing roofing materials, hiring a roof repair contractor and paying for the repair costs.
Is there a way to prevent repetitive expenditure?
Yes.
What is it?
The secret lies in picking up the right roofing material.
How to do that?
First, find out about the top roofing materials available in the market and then choose according to your budget, style, and requirements.
What are the top roofing materials?
1. Asphalt Shingles:
One of the most common roofing materials that cover most of the houses in America.
Pros:
- One of the least expensive roofing options
- Have lots of variety available in the market ranging from three-tab to coated shingles.
- Available in a number of colors. Solid and blended color options available.
- Provides high value
- Easy to install and maintain
- Coated asphalt shingles meet energy star standards and are eligible for the rebate.
- Efficient fire resistance
Cons:
- Too ordinary, especially the three-tab asphalt shingles.
- Have a comparatively shorter lifespan
- Don’t provide insulation as other materials do
- Quality differs a lot
- Petroleum based, not eco-friendly
- Not durable
Styles: Work best with traditional suburban style homes
Cost & Lifespan: These last for 20-25 years. The cost lies between $70 & $120 per square.
2. Wood Shingles:
They used to be very famous in the country but faced a major setback due to fire safety issues. Can still be used if you take extra fire safety measures.
Pros:
- Natural and biodegradable
- Give a classic look to your home
- Good wind resistance
Cons:
- Flammable
- Not allowed in certain areas due to fire safety regulations
- Expensive and have a comparatively shorter lifespan
Style: Work well to give a rustic look to your home
Cost & Lifespan: Average cost per square is around $350-$450. Last for around 15-25 years.
3. Slate:
One of the oldest roofing material that provides protection from both wind and fire.
Pros:
- Long lasting
- Durable
- Wind and fire resistant
Cons:
- Works on slant slopes only
- Very expensive
- Require special expertise for installation, leading to high installation costs as well.
Style: Look best with colonial and European-style homes
Cost & Lifespan: Average cost per square is around $350-$450. Last for around 15-25 years.
4. Clay & Concrete Tiles:
Need to add some elegance to your roof? Consider these two options!
Pros:
- Long lasting
- Fire resistant
- Energy efficient (concrete tiles)
Cons:
- Expensive
- Heavy
- Additional framing is required
Style: Work best with Spanish style and Mediterranean architectures
Cost & Lifespan: Last around 40-50 years and prices start from $300 per square foot.
5. Metal Roofing:
If you live in extreme weather conditions, this is a good option.
Pros:
- Lasts longer than wood and asphalt roofing
- High solar reflectance
- Recyclable
- Durable
Cons:
- Very expensive
Style: Look great on bungalows and contemporary style homes
Cost & Lifespan: Can last for 45-70 years and prices start from $100 per square foot and range till $800.
These are the top 5 roofing materials in the United States. We have listed all the important pros and cons and factors that might affect your choice of roofing materials. We hope it will help you in the roof installation process. To find reputable a roof repair service, use our uber-like technology at Same Day Pros.
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