Every home needs a roof and homeowners have a wide selection of materials to choose from when hiring a reputable roofing contractor.
The Old Standby Roofing Has Improved
Composition shingles have improved the most over the past twenty years by changes in the manufacturing process. The result is they are more durable than ever. In fact, all G.A.F. composition shingles are guaranteed for life. In the past you might have expected twenty to thirty years of service, now, with the newer G.A.F. composition shingles, you will have your roof on for as long as you own your home.
In addition, composition shingles no longer end up in landfills should they have to be replaced because of damage or defect. Composition shingles are recycled for use in roadbeds and construction uses, plus many other uses, making them environmentally friendly.
Composition shingles remain the most inexpensive roof to install on you home and are more durable than ever.
A Long Term Roofing Option With A Long Term Price
Metal roofs have been gaining popularity, but do often cost two to three times the amount of a composition shingle roof. Proponents say they will last as long, if not longer than your home. Detractors will cite the installation price and note that fading paint and aging qualities make a metal roof less desirable with age, even though it may be functional.
Specialty Roofing To Set You House Apart
Wood Shakes, Clay Tile, Slate and Concrete Tile roofing materials are unique and will set your home apart. Each offers its own distinctive look.
All of these choices are more expensive than traditional roofing materials and will not last any longer than some less expensive and durable options. But in no other way can you make your home stand with as much panache.
Location makes a difference with Roofing
The elements and local environment should also play a role if what you consider for your roofing choice. In Madison,Wisconsin, for example, you will have to deal with cold snowy winter and warm but generally fair summers. You’ll deal with rain, hail, and snow and occasionally high winds that accompany storms.
Whether you live on top of a hill, in a valley or a wooded area, what you roof is exposed to will determine its longevity, regardless of the roofing materials you choose. When selecting the roof, keep in mind to what it will be exposed.
Below is a list of popular roofing materials, their advantage, disadvantages and general investment level ($, $$, $$$). Use it to get a general idea of what the qualities of the various roofs are. Be sure to contact a reputable roofing contractor like Sims Exteriors when you are considering a new roof.
Composition Shingles
Advantages
Affordable, many types, brands and colors, easy to install and repair, low maintenance
Disadvantage
Can blow off in high winds, scars easily in heat, subject to moss and mildew, are now recyclable
Cost – $
Metal
Advantages
Durable, long life span, low maintenance, fire retardant, energy efficient, environmentally friendly since it can be installed over existing roofs, can be made to look like wood shakes, clay and metal tiles and shingles
Disadvantage
Very expensive (2 to 3 times more expensive than composition), installation can be difficult
Cost – $$
Wood Shakes
Advantages
Insulates attic, allows house to breathe, natural look
Disadvantage
Subject to mold, rot and insects, poor fire rating unless pressure treated, higher maintenance
Cost – $$$
Clay Tile
Advantages
Durable, long lasting, will not rot or burn, easy to maintain, variety of colors and styles
Disadvantage
Heavy so extra roof support may be needed, expensive, complicated installation, fragile so maintenance can be difficult
Cost – $$$
Slate
Advantages
Long life span, low maintenance, will not rot or burn, variety of colors and sizes
Disadvantage
Heavy so extra support may be needed, expensive, fragile so maintenance can be difficult
Cost – $$$
Concrete Tile
Advantages
Long life span, low maintenance, will not rot or burn, can be made to look like wood shakes, clay tiles or slate
Disadvantage
Expensive, there are also structural issues to be considered
Cost – $$$
Sims Remodeling also offers expert construction services for all remodeling projects.