Type of Roofs to Consider

Roofing may be the one thing that doesn't come to mind when designing your new home. However, it is a critical aspect to making sure your home stays water damage-free. There is various type of roofing materials to consider from shingles to metal roofing.

Here are 5 types of roofing to consider when designing your new home:

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most popular choice in North America. They are a good option because they last for 20-30 years, and are effective in all environmental conditions and replacing individual shingles is relatively easy. Also, most roofing companies are family with this type of roofing.

Cost:$ 1.50 - 3.50 Per SQ/FT

Pro:

• effective in all environmental conditions

• last 20 - 30 years

• the upfront cost is low

• specific shingles can be bought (high impact - hail)

• Available in a variety of colors

Con:

• Replacement costs can be expensive

• Not as durable as metal, or clay

• Extreme heat can cause shingles to crack

• Fit for extreme temperature changes

• Can become damaged if installed at below freezing

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing is a good option for those who are looking for durable longlasting roofing. These roofs can last up to 30-50 years and can be made of galvanized steel, or a zinc aluminum-silicon mixed steel. Metal also mimics the look of shingles, or clay tiles so it is a good option for aesthetics.

Costs:$5 - 12 per sq. foot - more than assault less than concrete

Pros:

• Very durable can stand heavy snow, rain, & can resist high winds

• Lightweight & Fire resistant

• Can be installed over existing roofs

• Plants growth & animals are unable to harm roofing

Cons:

• Expensive

• Can be noisy during rain or hail

• May dent from hail

Wood Roofing

Wood roofing is very aesthetically pleasing but is very expensive and has limitations. Wood roofing troubles in areas with high moisture or an area with wildfires. They are a popular option for luxury homes and are made of natural wood. Wood shingles are thin, wedge-shaped slabs of wood. Wood shakes are produced by splitting and ar thicker than wedges.

Cost: $4.50 - 11.00

Pro:

• Most attractive roofing

• Can last up to 60 Years in Dry conditions

Cons:

• Only last 20 Yeas in damp conditions

• Wildfire risk Insect risk

BUILT-UP ROOFING

Built-up roofing is made of the layer of asphalt or tar used only for flat roofs such as rooftop decks. They can last up to 20 - 25 years.

Cost: $2.50 - 5.00 per SQ/FT

Pro:

• Useable for flat structures

• Durable

• Low Maintenance

• Can be easily overlaid

• Long Lifespan

Con:

• Weighty Installation

• Can be messy

• Identifying leaks can be difficult

• Can be sticky in summer & hard to shovel snow off compared to more smooth surfaces

Rolled roofing.

Rolled roofing can be useful for areas like a shop, garage, gazebo or a utility shed, and other buildings where the roof has a low-slope. Each roll is made of oil-based asphalt, is a thinner material, and is about 100 square feet rolls. Rolled roofing is an inexpensive option but is less durable than other options.

Costs: $1.50 - $2.50

Pros:

• Inexpensive in comparison to asphalt

• Can be used to patch damage on current roofs

• Fast installation

• Easier to carry & transport

• Can be used for roofs with a low- incline (not recommended for flat roofs)

Cons:

• less aesthetic

• limited color options

• Less durable

• Poor resale - Homes with rolled roofing don't retain value

• While rolled roofing can have its uses it is not for every roof.