Choosing the right roofing materials for your home is usually based on cost and durability. You want materials that are going to require limited maintenance over their lifetime. You don’t want to wait until your roof is caving in on you before you decide what is best for your pocketbook and rooftop.
Roofing Material Essentials
When deciding on the kind of roofing materials to use, it is best to review the types of materials available and then determine what is suitable for your home. Secondly, you should take a look at the architectural style of your home, and thirdly consider the climate in your area. Selecting affordable, style-related and weather compatible materials ensures a lasting roof and fewer future repairs.
The various kinds of roofing materials include:
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most common of roofing materials, and they often incorporate granulated zinc or copper to hinder the growth of algae, which can alleviate roof-related problems in humid climates. Asphalt shingles are machine-sawed and should last around 25 years or more. They are also durable, install easily, come in many
colors and are the most affordable of shingle choices.
Wood Shingles
Wood shingles and shakes are popular in the West and Northwest and they are often handmade for a more rustic appearance. Wood shingles are twice as expensive as asphalt, but they do last about 25 years, particularly if they are made fire resistant; however, some city fire codes forbid their use.
Clay, Tile and Cement
These roofing materials are both fire-resistant and durable, and they are usually found in the Southwest with Spanish inspired, adobe style homes. They are costly and are about three times more expensive than asphalt. The materials are enduring and can last from 50 to 100 years.
Natural Stone – Slate
Slate is a natural heavy stone that is considered one of the most durable of all roofing materials. It can last for at least 100 years, or possibly more. Its enduring quality makes it extremely expensive with a price tag 12 to 20 times higher than that of asphalt.
Aluminum, Steel, and Copper
These various metals are not only durable but they are lightweight, plus they are resistant to weather and fire. They are usually found in low-slope or flat type roofs, and they can also be molded or pressed to resemble other roof coverings, such as shingles or tile. They, too, can be expensive but will last up to 35 years.
Synthetics
Synthetic related materials, like polymers and composites, are made to resemble more traditional roofing materials. Their durable and lightweight nature makes them as affordable as asphalt shingles, and they require limited maintenance, plus they can last up to 50 years.
Choosing the right roofing materials doesn’t have to be a long, drawn-out process. If you are in South Jersey and have a budget in mind, and know your roofing style, but are unsure of what to go with, contact our experts for a free estimate. Give us a call at 856-264-9093 or fill out the contact form on our website. A representative will get back to you and guide you through the process of finding the right roofing materials to meet your needs and those of your home.
