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Types of Roofing Material – What You Need to Know
In our last article, we talked about the things to consider when choosing the right roofing material. We’ve decided to expand on this topic and give you an overview on the type of materials available in the market. This will help you determine which material will give you the most value, while considering your personal budget and preference.
Below is a list of popular materials used today, including their advantages and a few of their not-so-pleasant characteristics. You can use this as a guide to decide which material to go with:
Man- Made
1. Asphalt
Primarily chosen for their price, asphalt or composition shingles are inexpensive. Hence, they are often the go-to solution for homeowners who want to save money. They come in a variety of colours and styles. One of its striking versions is the architectural shingles, dubbed as such because of its thick and textured appearance. It’s slightly more expensive and is often advertised to last 30-40 years, but more or less, lasts for only 20 years. The downside to this is that they are pretty common, require scheduled maintenance to remove moss growth, and are not eco-friendly.
2. Metal
This type of material covers steel, aluminium, aluminium alloys and copper. This doesn’t include lead roof flashing, which serves another purpose as opposed to an actual roof. Metal roofing is proven to be durable while providing good security. This is the main reason why it’s used in areas where harsh weather conditions are present, from high winds, cyclones and extreme storms. Metal roofing is also fire proof and ideal for industrial units or buildings. The downside is that it’s a very expensive material to use. It also traps heat, can be noisy during heavy rainfall and, depending on its design, the metal grooves can trap debris which may require frequent cleaning.
3. Fibreglass
Owners who love natural sunlight usually opt for this type of material. Installing this means you get a durable item that will withstand great impact. Fibreglass is also perfect for conserving energy since you can use natural light most of the time. For some, the downside is that it has a ‘plastic’ finish to it. The plastic finish can exist for about 6 months or so, after a while it dulls out. There are also coloured varieties now which you can use to amp up the look of your roof. Most of the problems with fibreglass occur during the installation process. It’s important to get someone who knows what they’re doing, using proper resin and board, to make sure it lasts for a long time.
4. Clay Tile
These are often used in Spanish style or Italian style homes. The great thing about clay is that it looks great. The reddish/ orange tone is a draw and instantly adds drama to any home. You can count on these to be durable as well, but they do have a tendency to become brittle and can be quite expensive.
Natural
1. Wood
Wood is another contender when it comes to roofing. Cedar and redwood are commonly made into shingles or tiles. Wood roofing provides a very beautiful look to any home. It’s also environmentally-friendly, which is another plus. However, it’s important to inquire with your local council to make sure the wood you’re using adheres to local regulations.
2. Slate Roof or Tiles
Slate is one of the oldest types of roofing available. The beauty of this material is that there’s very minimal slate roof repairs to be done over the years. When installed properly, slate roof is deemed to last a lifetime. In fact, you can still spot them in well-preserved heritage homes in Sydney or in any area you might be in. Aesthetically, slate shingles look great on any home, whether traditional or modern in design. They’re also perfect for withstanding extremely harsh temperature so you get a roof to last a lifetime.
Although the material tends to be on the expensive side, it eventually pays itself over time. Slate roofing would require a good framework underneath though, since it tends to be on the heavy side. However, a reliable slate roof contractor will be able to assess the requirements if you want this material installed in your home.
The right roofing material can enhance your home or property instantly. When properly installed, it also ensures your home is well-protected and will last for a long time.