When it’s time to replace your roof, you have some big decisions to make. Many different materials and designs exist, and that’s because every situation requires different qualities. As such, no one can tell you which roof type is truly the best for you. However, we can look at their pros, cons, and specific qualities. Having been thus informed, you should be able to make a sound decision regarding the best roof to get in Delaware.
Wood Shakes
Let’s start with an option that many people will rule out right away: Wood shakes. These are much like standard roofing tiles, except that they are made of wood. They are made to be laid on top of one another like normal shingles or tiles, and they provide a very strong barrier against wind, rain, and other harsh weather. However, that isn’t their main advantage.
The primary advantage of wood shakes is their visual appeal. They just look very nice, and some people really want that specific kind of look. Wood shakes can help to give your home a nice, earthy aesthetic. However, if you aren’t going for that kind of look, you can rule this option out. Even when treated, wood shakes will have a shorter life than most other materials.
Asphalt Shingles
This is pretty much the standard roofing option, at least in the USA. Asphalt shingles really are the most cost-efficient choice, as you can acquire these shingles in packs that are relatively cheap. However, this is where we need to consider the specific weather conditions of Delaware.
Asphalt shingles are not the best option when it comes to durability against heavy snow. They can also be ripped off by strong winds more easily because of their low weight. So, since Delaware does get some harsh winter weather, you might want to consider something else. Still, even with these disadvantages, an asphalt shingle roof will probably last 10-20 years. When damage occurs, it is usually localized and therefore easier to repair.
Metal Roofs
Although metal roofing is more expensive than asphalt or clay, it is definitely the most durable option. These roofs will typically last 50 years when properly installed. In fact, some may last even longer. You also have several options, as the metal can be laid in several ways. Some metal roofing consists of small overlapping pieces that are used much like shakes or tiles. Some metal roofing consists of big sheets that are laid vertically with only a slight overlap. And, of course, there is more than one type of metal that can be used. Steel is the strongest, but also the heaviest. Aluminum, tin, copper, and zinc are also commonly used.
That brings us to an important factor: Weight. Metal roofs are heavier than most, so you must make sure that your roof and the surrounding structure can handle that weight. We would recommend getting the opinion of an expert on that one since it is very hard for the average person to estimate how much weight their home’s roof can bear. If your roof cannot handle the heavier steel roofing, aluminum is probably your best bet.
Clay And Slate Roofs
This is a time-honored option that offers a unique and classic look. Spanish tiles, in particular, are very popular in some places. Clay has the option of being pretty cheap because it can simply be dug from the ground. However, clay tiles have to be specially treated if you want maximum lifespan, and that raises the price. Clay tiles are also quite heavy, sometimes even heavier than metal.
Despite these problems, clay tiles provide amazing protection from the weather. They are strong enough to resist all sorts of weather and heavy enough to resist the wind. That’s why clay tile roofing jobs can last up to 125 years. They are somewhat brittle, but that won’t be a big issue unless they are hit by another hard object. Clay tile roofs are also generally cheaper to repair because of their modular nature. You’ll normally have to replace just a few tiles, and a few of them won’t cost much.
Natural stone is probably the heaviest and most expensive option, but also one of the nicest-looking. Its qualities are similar to those of a clay tile roof, but they are even more long-lasting and durable. These types of roofs can last for centuries if properly maintained. Slate roofs are particularly common for colonial and European-style houses. Harsh northeastern winters have made these roofs popular with high-end homeowners in Delaware.
A Word About Mimicking
So, let’s say you really like the look of a wood shake roof but you can’t afford one. You might be able to afford asphalt shingles that are made to mimic the look of wood shakes. There are actually quite a lot of cases in which one roofing material is made to mimic the other. So, if your preferences do not line up with the practical factors, you might want to consider a faux option.
Conclusion
Most roofers in Delaware are familiar with the demands of their area, so they can give you even more advice regarding which material is the best for you. It all comes down to your budget, your tastes, and the construction of your home. However, some Delaware roofing contractors won’t be able to offer you all these materials, and some others might not be trained to handle all of them. To avoid that annoying issue, you can call RGB Construction at 856-264-9093, as we are a company that takes excellence seriously.
