Homeowners in the Northeast region of the States know a thing or two about variable weather. Hot and humid summers mixed with frigid winters can cause havoc on the roof of your home. That is why you need to consider the different kinds of roofing materials out there and which one is best for your Northeastern home. You want a roof that can withstand the summer heat and winter snowfall, as well as all the other weather events in between.
4 Most Common Roofing Materials in the Northeast
Here is a look at the four types of roofs most often seen throughout the Northeast. These materials are ideal for all kinds of homes, from those along the Northeast beaches to Victorian homes, urban brownstones, and more. Take a look:
Asphalt Shingles
By far, asphalt shingles are the favorite among Americans. No matter where you go in the country, asphalt shingles far outweigh the other options on this list. There are affordable options, like 3-tab shingles, as well as higher-end versions, known as dimensional or architectural. Some premium asphalt shingles can even imitate more expensive materials, including cedar shingles.
There are many pluses to choosing asphalt shingles for your Northeast home. Durable, lightweight, flexible, and weather-resistant, asphalt shingles protect your home throughout the four seasons. If you are worried about impacts from hail, for instance, there are special impact-resistant shingles available as well. Professionally installed dimensional asphalt shingles generally last between 20 and 25 years, but there are some brands that have premium shingles with a lifespan of 30 years or more.
You will need to maintain your asphalt shingles to get the most life out of them. That includes debris removal from valleys, cleaning gutters, inspecting the flashings, and replacing any shingles that end up curling, chipped, cracked, or punctured immediately.
Slate Roofs
Homes with slate roofs are stunning to see. Once you have a slate roof installed, you never have to worry about getting it replaced. Properly maintained slate tiles can last between 50 to 100 years, sometimes even longer. In fact, there are still some historic buildings in Europe and the UK with their original slate roofs intact. Therefore, if you have a Colonial, French, or European-style house, consider slate.
Keep this in mind: Slate is a natural stone and, therefore, heavy. It’s also one of the most expensive roofing materials. For that reason, the structure of your home needs to be sound and the roof adequately reinforced.
Metal Roofs
One roofing material that is catching on quickly in the Northeast is metal. One of the reasons is that metal provides superior protection from all kinds of weather. Not as heavy as slate but as unique looking as cedar, the metal adds flair to your home, as well as incredible resistance. Installation does require a professional and the use of specialized equipment, but choosing an experienced team like RGB Construction can get your roof replacement done much faster than you might expect.
Metal roofing comes in a variety of styles and metals. For instance, you could choose a standing seam metal roof, which is when the metal panels are arranged vertically. Metal can also be fabricated into shingles that overlay one another. Some brands even have metal roofing that mimics other materials, including Spanish tile. You can choose from a variety of colors and finishes to add a custom look to your home.
The main disadvantage to metal roofing is the price. Metal roofs are more expensive than asphalt shingles. However, with a lifespan of 75 years with proper maintenance, this material pays for itself in time.
Western Red Cedar Shakes and Shingles
For those who live in the more forested regions of the Northeast, such as a cabin or cottage in New Jersey, cedar shakes and shingles are a beautiful option. Although cedar shakes and shingles require a little more maintenance than your average asphalt shingle, they add loads of curb appeal and are naturally insect and fire-resistant. Cedar also is naturally insulating, so you can look forward to a decreased energy bill throughout the year.
The only downside to cedar shingles and shakes is their vulnerability to dry rot and mold or mildew growth. That said, pretreated options are out there, so ask your local roofing contractor about what they have available.
Get Your New Roof With RGB Construction
There are many factors that come into play when selecting a new roofing material for your Northeast home, including price, maintenance requirements, and installation. However, you can’t go wrong with any of the options above. Whether you want asphalt shingles or cedar ones, RGB Construction can assist with installing your brand new roof. We will ensure that the roofing process is hassle-free for you. Schedule a consultation today by calling 856-347-2297.
