A roof is one of the most important parts of your home. You need to make sure that it’s in good condition and will last you for many years – hence the question, “What types of roofs exist and what do they affect when they are replaced?”
Truth be told, there are a variety of different types of roofs available on the market, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Not only that but the material that you use for your new roof can also have an impact on how long it will last as well as how much it will cost to maintain over time.
We are looking at a two-fold question here. What types of roofs exist? AND what will a roof replacement affect?
- Think VALUE.
- Think AESTHETICS.
- Think FUNCTIONALITY.
In this extensive guide there are different roof styles that you may be familiar with, and some that you may not. As you will learn, there are many different types of roofs available today!
Different Types of Roofs
It’s no wonder that the types of roof design have become increasingly more sophisticated over time. The types of roofing styles have come a long way and vary by many colors and many textures.
Most roofs are made up of:
- Asphalt Shingles
- Wood Shakes
- Slate Tiles
Other types of roofs consist of other materials, and they offer several advantages over traditional materials like asphalt shingles, but they can be more expensive to install and maintain:
- Metal
- Wood
- Concrete Panels which offer
Key Benefits of 7 Roof materials Styles
#1 Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material on the market. They’re made from recycled materials, resistant to fire and hail, and look great when new. Some would say they have a limited life span of about 20-40 years. Although that’s a long time, some roofs last up to 40+ years.
Asphalt is a petroleum product that’s melted and poured over a base which gives it its strength and flexibility; this helps make asphalt shingles reliable at protecting your home—they’re resistant to fire due to their density while also being able to withstand severe weather conditions including rainstorms and hurricanes without any leaks occurring beneath them.
TIP: Asphalt shingles are the easiest roof to maintain or replace without breaking the bank like other materials such as tile or metal panels.
#2 Wood Shingles and Shakes
Wood shingles and shakes are a great choice for homes in colder climates. They are more expensive than other materials. Wood is very complicated to install and very time consuming and will last 30-40 years. In addition, wood has to be treated/maintained every 3-4 years to protect it and extend the lifespan of it.
#3 Metal Roofing
Metal roofs are extremely durable and can last for many years. They come in a variety of colors and are made of:
- Steel
- Copper
- Zinc
- Aluminum
As many other roofing materials, they are resistant to fire and high winds. Metal roofs are also energy efficient because they help prevent heat transfer between the inside and outside of your home.
The key is proper installation and balanced ventilation for such a roof.
#4 Clay Tiles (Great for low, medium sloped Roofs)
Clay tiles are fired in a kiln at high temperatures. They’re made from clay, sand, and water, so you know they’re durable. They’re heavy but durable, which makes them an excellent choice for homes with high wind regions. This type of tile also tends to last longer than other materials and can withstand wind-driven rain to some degree. However, it’s more expensive than other types of roofing materials.
#5 Concrete Tiles
Concrete tiles are made from concrete and cement, which allows them to be both durable and fireproof. These are the most popular roofing tile in the world because they can last up to 50 years without any maintenance. However, they do have some drawbacks that make them not as practical for homeowners: they are heavy (usually weighing between 25-30 pounds), so it’s important to have professionals install the concrete tiles on your home so that you don’t damage your roof or yourself in the process!
#6 Slate Roofing
Slate is a sedimentary rock that is formed from the metamorphosis of clay, sand, and organic material. It’s used to build roofing because it has many positive qualities, like durability and fire resistance.
#7 Flat Roof
A flat roof is a low-sloped roof that doesn’t have any peaks or valleys. These roofs are typically constructed with asphalt, EPDM, or TPO. Many types of flat roofs vary in thickness and composition. For example, poured concrete roofs will have an even thickness throughout the entire space while panels made from materials like EPDM rubber or PVC will usually have thicker areas in key areas such as the seams between the panels to avoid water damage.
Flat roofs tend to be installed on buildings with low pitch because they need drainage channels and gutters for proper drainage so that rainwater doesn’t pool on top of them. Because of their shape, flat roofs are more likely than sloped ones to leak when heavy rainfall occurs within a short period; therefore—if you plan on installing one—be sure that your home has access points available to facilitate repairs any time damage occurs.
Why It’s Important to Buy Quality Materials
The materials you choose for your roof are critically important, so you must get the best quality materials possible. A good roof will protect your home from the elements and keep you comfortable inside. But a poor-quality roof can lead to serious problems, like leaks and drafts. That’s why it’s important to do your research and use quality materials when you’re roofing your home.
When working with a roofing professional, think about warranties on the products themselves. This helps you to have peace of mind on quality. It’s always important to ask:
- What kind of warranties do you offer on the products you will be using?
- How long do the warranties last?
Don’t take chances with your roof. Use quality materials to get the job done right. Your roof is an important investment, so make sure you use quality materials to protect it.
What to Consider When Choosing a Roofing Material
There are many factors to consider when deciding which type of roofing material is right for your home. The climate where you live, the age of your home, and the style of your house will all play a role in determining what type of roof is best for you.
Roofing materials are divided into three main categories: shingles, tiles, and metal roofs. Each category has its advantages and disadvantages depending on what suits your needs best.
Not all roofs are created equal. Before you decide on what type of roof to buy, consider these five factors:
- Cost
- Energy efficiency
- Durability
- Budgeting for repairs
- Ease of installation
Benefits of Roof Replacement
If you’re on the fence about replacing your roof, think about what your new roof will do for your home. The new roof can extend the life of the home and help protect your family.
A new roof can:
- Reduce energy costs. A high-quality, well-insulated roof can save you money on utility bills.
- Protect against leaks and water damage. A properly installed roof can make sure that rainwater doesn’t get in through holes or cracks in the structure of your home. It also keeps out birds, bugs, and other pests that may cause damage inside your home.
- Increase property value. A new roof allows you to sell your home for more money if you ever decide to move or want to sell it for any other reason. It also makes it more attractive for potential buyers because it looks newer than older styles of roofs that may have seen better days over time from wear and tear from weather conditions like heavy rainstorms and strong winds — not to mention tree branches falling during storms!
Since 2011, MY PITTSBURGH ROOFING has been known as a highly recognized, well-reviewed, expert roofing company in the Pittsburgh area of Pennsylvania. We specialize in the following services:
- Roofing Repairs & Inspections
- Roof Installation & Replacement
- Siding Installation
- Emergency Roof Tarping
We even handle insurance claims with weather related issues! Choosing a roofing contractor is a big decision. We take pride in our work and offer a long history of satisfied customers and a wide range of roofing services.
Looking for a trusted roofing contractor? Schedule now for a free estimate.
