You might weigh roof materials in a few different scenarios. Perhaps you’re building a new home and are unsure of what materials to use for the roof. You might also be remodeling your home and undecided on what type of material fits your aesthetic and functional needs. The decision can be a tough one, so we’re going to outline a few of the most common materials that homeowners prefer at their humble abode.
For this post, tiles and shingles will be the focus, but there are other options out there like metal, rubber and green materials that we’ll explore in a future post. If traditional roofing options are your focus, this post is for you as we will explore five of the most popular types of shingles for your home.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are also known as composite shingles and are the most popular type of material used in the United States. Composite shingles are reasonably priced and simple to install, making them a favorite of homeowners. They’re typically made from fiberglass and topped with asphalt, and also come in a variety of colors. You simply can’t go wrong with asphalt shingles.
Slate Shingles
Slate shingles are exactly what they sound like: shingles made from the rock itself. They come in a multitude of colors ranging from black to green to purple, making them a beautiful option for the roof of your home. They’re also an extremely durable option and resistant to fire. One downside is that slate is heavy, requiring extra framing than other roofing materials. It’s also more expensive than other types of shingles.
Clay And Concrete Tiles
Clay tiles, along with concrete, provide a unique aesthetic that other types simply can’t made. They come in flat, scalloped and ribbed varieties which create a beautiful, textured appearance. Both are very durable and long-lasting, but also heavy, requiring extra framing just like slate. But if you’re looking for something that will stand out and give your home an elegant look that more traditional options can’t provide, clay and concrete might be your answer.
Wood Shingles
If you’re looking for traditional in the true sense of the word, wood shingles could be your answer. These natural tiles are made from numerous types of wood, offering an earthy, bucolic look. They can be cut from machines or carved by hand, and they weather with age to nice shades of gray. If you choose to go with wood tiles or shakes, be sure they’re treated with fire-resistant materials, as wood is not resistant to flame.
Synthetic Shingles
Manufacturers also make synthetic roofing materials, with synthetic shingles mimicking the look of slate, wood and other types. Synthetic materials are often more durable than wood and slate, and available at a much lower price. The downside is that they aren’t the real thing, so if you want the authentic material, you may have to pay a little more.
These are just the more traditional options that homeowners often choose for roofs, with many other options available for homeowners seeking something a little more outside the box. No matter what option you choose, you can’t go wrong with any of these materials, as they have withstood the test of time to emerge as the favorites of homeowners near and far.
