Your Roof is Your Primary Defense Against the Elements

by | Feb 8, 2023 | Important Information

Your roof provides protection against wind, rain and snow, as well as shielding the interior from the blazing heat.

There are many types of roofing materials to choose from today. You can reroof with the same type of roofing material that you currently have or investigate alternatives. Some materials are environmentally friendly and some are long lasting or low maintenance.

Before making your choice, consider the life-cycle cost of your roofing material. Some materials, though much more expensive, require less maintenace and have a longer life expectancy than others. An asphalt composition roof might last just 20 years whereas a metal roof might last more than 50. Consider both the current and potential value of your home, and its age when calculating whether a roofing material is actually “too expensive.” It might just be more cost-effective in the long run.

Here are common roofing materials
Composition / Asphalt Shingles

House Type: Can be used on any house from contemporary to historic.

Advantages:

  • inexpensive
  • ranges from low-cost 3-tab shingle to architectural shingles with extra durability and style
  • many colors, types, and manufacturers
  • suitable for most residential applications
  • easy to repair
  • fire resistant
Disadvantages:
  • relatively short life-span (15–30 years)
  • scars easily when hot
  • subject to mildew and moss
  • environmentally unfriendly
Wood Shingles or Shakes
House Type: Bungalows, ranch, contemporary, cottage, historic.

Advantages:

  • natural look weathering to a soft grey
  • offers some insulation value
  • blends in with the environment
  • easy to repair or replace
  • long lasting if maintained (30–50 years)

Disadvantages:

  • expensive
  • usually requires professional installation
  • high maintenance
  • tends to rot, split, mold, and mildew
  • poor fire rating unless presure treated
Metal (steel, aluminum, tin, copper)
House Type: Bungalows, ranch, contemporary, cottage, historic (virtually all)

Advantages:

  • available in different looks including cedar shingles, slate, or standing seam
  • many colors
  • light weight
  • durable
  • long life span (at least 50 years)
  • low maintenance
  • can be installed over existing roofs
  • excellent performance in high wind, hail and rain
  • environmentally friendly

Disadvantages:

  • may be difficult to install
  • can be expensive
  • may need periodic painting
Tile – Concrete or Clay
House Type: Mediterranean, Italian, French Eclectic, Spanish Eclectic, Beaux Arts, Mission, and Prairie. May also be attractive on some contemporary or ranch style homes.

Advantages:

  • non-combustible
  • many colors and styles
  • attractive
  • fireproof
  • easy to maintain
  • extremely durable when maintained

Disadvantages:

  • expensive
  • heavy
  • used primarily in new buildings because of weight and structural requirements
  • installation and repairs can be tricky
  • fragile; walking on roof may break tiles
Slate
House Type: Colonial, French, Italianate, Exotic Revivals, Chateauesque, Beaux Arts

Advantages:

  • beautiful, distinctive appearance
  • fireproof
  • long life span
  • low maintenance

Disadvantages:

  • very expensive
  • requires specialized installation
  • heavy