Do you need a new roof?
It’s important to know what type of residential roofing is best for your home before taking the next step. With many different types and styles, it can be difficult to choose the right one.
Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home. It protects you and your family from the elements, and for that reason, it needs to be maintained and updated. You deserve a roof that is durable, long-lasting, and looks attractive for years to come. We’ll help you find the perfect fit for your needs in this guide on how to choose your residential roofing material.
Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about finding the perfect roof for your home!
Residential Roofing Materials
When it comes to residential roof types, most people think about traditional shingle roofs. Though this is a popular choice for residential homes because of its low cost and ease of installation, there are many other options out there. We always recommend learning about every kind of residential roofing material before making your final decision.
Asphalt Roofs
As we mentioned, the most common type of residential roofing material is asphalt shingles. Asphalt roofs are usually the cheapest option, but they’re also the most susceptible to damage from storms. Depending on the severity of the weather in your area, you may want to consider roofing material that’s more durable. This type of roof will require regular maintenance and inspections.
The advantage of asphalt roofs is that they are very easy to install. If you don’t have a lot of time to complete your roofing project or a large budget, asphalt shingles might be the roofing material for you.
Metal Roofs
Another popular option is residential metal roofing. Metal roofs offer many benefits that other materials do not: in addition to being durable, metal roofing is sleek and modern-looking.
These roofs last for many years, which means you won’t need to worry about roofing repairs any time soon. This is an excellent option for a homeowner who wants to “set it and forget it.” Metal roofs require almost zero maintenance and upkeep.
The only downside to this option is that metal is heavier than asphalt shingle, meaning they can be very difficult to handle and require professional installation. Metal is usually one of the more expensive residential roofing materials, but it’s worth considering if you’re looking for something that will last many years with little maintenance.
Tile Roofs
Another durable residential roofing option is tile roofs. When it comes to tile roofing, you have several choices: Slate, concrete, or clay.
Slate roofs last a long time, but they also cost more than other types of roofing materials. They’re heavy, elegant, and durable, and they may require additional framing to support their weight. A slate roof will not need to be replaced for 50-100 years.
Clay and concrete tile roofs are also quite heavy, and similar to slate, may require additional framing. Both types of tiles are considered very durable for weather conditions. Concrete will last up to 50 years, while clay can last anywhere from 50-100 years. They are both great insulators and do not burn, making them an extremely safe option for preventing fires.
Clay tiles have a particularly stunning and unique look that some homeowners fall in love with. The only downside is that they are expensive and brittle, and they can be more easily damaged by foot traffic or fallen objects.
Wood Shingle Roofs
Wood shingle roofs or cedar shake roofs are common and have a strong rustic appeal. The positive aspects of wood shingle roofs are that they are not as brittle as natural tiles, and they are less expensive than natural material, though they still create a beautiful roof.
The drawbacks of this type of roofing are that it easily catches fire, requires regular maintenance, and needs extra sealing every few years because water will leak through cracks more easily due to its porous nature. Wood roofing does not typically last as long as other kinds of roofs, usually needing replacement after around 25-30 years.
Synthetic Roofs
Synthetic roofs are cheaper and much more durable than natural materials such as asphalt shingles, cedar shakes, or slate roofs. They come in various colors, so if you want your house to have a very specific look, synthetic residential roofing might be right for you.
Many synthetic roofs are made to mimic natural products at a fraction of the cost, which is perfect for homeowners who love the look of slate or clay tiles but can’t find the budget.
The only difference is in the quality of the material, which varies depending on the manufacturer. Some synthetic roofing might absorb water over time or come with other defective qualities, and the length of the home warranty will vary with the manufacturer as well. When selecting synthetic roofing, be sure you’re working with a trusted residential roofing contractor to provide a proven product.
Schedule a Quality Roofing Installation Today
Mid-State Roofing in Effingham, Illinois provides residential roofing services that will help keep your home looking great for years to come. We offer complimentary inspections so you know exactly what needs to be done and at what cost before we start any work on your property. We also provide warranty protection and a certified and accredited team.
Get started today by contacting us for a free quality inspection. We’ll let you know about any problems we find with your current roof and help you decide on the best residential roofing for your home.