A wood roof whether shingles or shakes can give a classic look to your home. Shakes are thicker wedge-shaped pieces with a rough, rustic texture shingles are cut by sawing and have a more precise shape.
Slate either soft or hard depending on your preference lasts a lifetime and is resistant to fire, hail and wind. However, it’s heavy and requires additional framing during installation to support its weight.
1. Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most common type of roofing materials portland in the United States they are affordable and durable and they come in a wide variety of colors. The lifespan of a new shingle roof can range from 25-30 years.
There are two standard design options for asphalt shingles three-tab and architectural (or dimensional). The former has regular, uniform sized granules that give the roof a flat look. The latter is thicker and less uniform in size giving the roof a dimensional appearance. Architectural shingles are heavier and offer longer manufacturer’s warranties than three-tab shingles.
2. Concrete Tiles
Concrete roof tiles are a great choice for those looking to add texture and a stone-like appearance to their home. They also come in a variety of colors and styles to match any exterior design theme.
In addition to their beauty concrete tiles are fire-resistant and able to resist rot, insects and frost. They are less expensive than clay tiles but still fairly heavy so the roof structure needs to be strong enough to support them.
Look out for poor quality concrete tile that are prone to fading and mildew or are painted over with an unconvincing coating to resemble clay tiles. Interlocking roof tiles that are laid double-lapped are a better option as they tend to be more convincing in appearance.
3. Metal
Experts consider metal roof tiles to be one of the best roofing materials for homes, as they offer industrial-strength durability and a lifespan that can last up to 80 years. They also look great on bungalows, cabins and cottage-style homes.
Unlike clay tile roofs, metal roof tiles are lightweight and can be installed on low slope projects. They also install much more quickly than clay tile.
Metal roofs can be made from galvanized steel or aluminum, and they are a good choice for homeowners in regions that experience harsh weather conditions like tornadoes or hurricanes. They can also be painted or coated with cool metal roofing, which reduces heat transfer and offers energy savings.
4. Slate
Slate is one of the most celebrated natural roofing materials for its beauty, durability and low maintenance. It is a highly fireproof, waterproof and pollutant resistant material that can last for centuries with little to no damage. It is also used for flooring, stairs, walkways and wall cladding.
The stone can be layered for a textured aesthetic or cut in uniform sizes to match your home’s roofline. However, the material can be heavy and difficult to install properly. Finding a local contractor with a history of slate roof installation is vital to ensuring your investment will last.
5. Clay Tiles
Clay tiles are made from natural materials and can be coated in a variety of colors. They are highly resistant to bad weather such as heavy rain and hail. They are also fire-resistant and can boost your home’s resale value.
Depending on the style you choose, clay roofs can look beautiful on any home. They are also durable and will last a lifetime with proper maintenance. In addition, they are insulating and help reduce energy bills during the summer and winter. They require less production energy compared to other roofing options and are recyclable at the end of their life span.
6. Thermoplastic Membrane
Thermoplastic membranes such as ethylene propylene/tetrafluoroethylene (TPO) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) are used in low-slope and flat roofing systems. They are characterized by chemical, tear, and weathering resistance. They can be installed in a variety of ways, including adhered, mechanically attached, or loose-laid with a ballasted cover.
These membranes are highly reflective, a great choice if you’re looking to cut energy costs. They also provide a high level of protection from the rain, debris and UV radiation that can damage a roof.
These roofs are durable, easy to clean and resistant to impact. They are also ENERGY STAR rated and recyclable.
7. Wood
Wood is one of the oldest building materials, and its natural appearance gives homes a classic look. It’s also a sustainable material that captures carbon and returns it to the atmosphere when it decomposes.
It can be used in a variety of styles, including Craftsman and rustic houses. It can be a more affordable option than tile or clay roofing but requires regular maintenance to maintain its durability.
Softwoods are the most common type of wood used in construction. They are used for interior mouldings, the manufacturing of windows, construction framing and generating sheet goods like plywood and fibreboard.
