When you have a business, resort, or multi-family home, you want to choose the right roofing system. Not all roofing materials are the same. You need materials that look great but are also reliable. These properties are an investment. The ideal materials will protect the building for many years, saving you money on repairs or replacements. If you own any of these property types, here are a few things to know about choosing the best roofing materials.
Common Roofing Materials for Your Properties
As you may have guessed, there are many different options for roofing materials. You want to choose something visually appealing and durable. The right roofing option can also help reduce heating and cooling bills.
The main job of the roof is to protect your building. For that reason, you want roofing materials that can hold up against harsh weather elements. All of these factors are important for selecting a roofing option. Let’s look at a few common roofing materials.
Asphalt
Asphalt has been one of the most popular options on the market. You can find shingles in various colors, and they will fit with most design styles. Most asphalt shingles are made with fiberglass and topped with mineral and asphalt granules. Asphalt is an excellent option if you want something that is easy to replace, inexpensive, and resistant to fires.
Slate
If you want a unique roofing material, consider slate for your properties. Slate is a type of rock, but it is resistant to wind and fire. This roofing material is heavier than other options. With that, you might need to reinforce the frame. However, the slate will give your business, resort, or house an elegant appearance.
Metal
Metal is becoming a more popular choice for homeowners and property owners. It is an excellent material that can reduce cooling costs since it reflects the sun’s rays. Metal is very durable, and it is known to last for decades. This material is resistant to fires. It is also recyclable and environmentally friendly. Along with that, metal gives a distinctive look to your buildings.
Concrete and Clay
If you have a building with a European or Mediterranean design, you might want to consider these types of tiles. They can reflect the sun. The tiles can also withstand many weather conditions. In addition to that, these tiles come in various textures and colors. Like slate, you will need a reinforced roofing frame to handle the heavier weight.
Wood
You can find wood shingles in a variety of styles. Many of these tiles are available in cedar, pine, or redwood. Wood gives a building a more rustic or cottage feel. These wood shingles look amazing, but there are some drawbacks. Wood does have a shorter lifespan. They require more maintenance to avoid rot or mold. If you live in a fire-prone area, these wood materials often have a low fire-resistance rating.
Before choosing a roofing material for your resort, business, or multi-family home, you will need to think about a few other factors.
Long-Term Investment Considerations
When you are a business owner, you need to consider your properties as long-term investments. You might want to select asphalt shingles since they have a low upfront cost, but they are less durable than other choices. Asphalt shingles are not the best option if you want a long-term material. However, don’t let that scare you off from asphalt shingles. These are still great roofing materials for all buildings and climates.
However, if you are looking for a longer lifespan and better performance, you might want to choose a metal roof. Metal roofs can be expensive, but a new roof is a capital investment. These durable materials will provide many benefits to your properties, including:
- Lower heating and cooling bills
- Lower lifetime costs
- Lower maintenance
- Better resistance to the elements
Think About Your Climate and Weather
The outdoor elements play a significant role in choosing the right roofing material for your properties. You don’t want to purchase roofing materials that will degrade over a few years due to the climate.
If you live in a desert area or place with high humidity, clay tiles are a great choice. Asphalt shingles are excellent options for many areas. However, heavy storms, wind, and tornadoes can rip these materials off the roof. Wood shakes have aesthetic appeal, but they are not great for buildings in high humidity climates. Metal roofing is resistant to storms, and it can perform well in many areas. Finally, slate is an excellent option for colder environments. It can even hold up to heavy storms and harsh winds.
Find the Right Commercial Roofing Partner
After you have narrowed down your roofing options, you need to find a professional company specializing in installing these materials. Some contractors install only specific roof types, while others have experience with all of these materials. You need to find an honest roofer who wants to help you choose the best material for your building.
When it comes time to find the right material for your building, you need to consider your property’s budget and design style. In addition to that, don’t forget about your climate. With these factors in mind, you can choose the right option that will boost the look of your commercial properties.
Professional Roofing Services for Your Projects
At RGB Construction, we have a team that understands the pros and cons of all of these roofing materials. We want to find the right option for you. If you have a business, resort, or multi-family house needing a roof, schedule a consultation by calling 856-264-9093.