The type of roofing material you chose when replacing your roof is an important factor. Many people do not realize the potential pros and cons of each material. Let’s cover them. No pun attended!
Asphalt shingles are relatively inexpensive, making them a popular choice among roofing materials. A shingle roof typically lasts between 10 and 30 years depending on the quality of the shingles purchased. The great thing about a shingle roof is that almost anybody can install one. That being said, with proper training or oversight, some homeowners do not need to hire a contractor and can handle replacing the roof themselves if they have the time and the means. That can be a really great pro for a shingle roof, but there is cons. A shingle roof is more likely to have wear and tear quicker and is more likely to leak. They are not fire resistant and can easily be damaged by high winds. While they are the cheapest roofing material, they are not as appealing to the eye as other materials due to their flat appearance.
Another very popular and more durable roof would be a metal roof. My personal favorite feature of this material is that it is fire proof. Metal roofing is also environmentally friendly because it is made out of recycled material. The metal is more energy efficient and helps to keep the house cool in summer and warm in the winter. Unfortunately, these roofs are more expensive than your traditional shingle. They also can be loud in the event of rough weather. They are also fairly heavy and difficult for a homeowner to install on their own.
Tile roofs can be appeasing to the eye and unique enough to set your house apart. You have a choice between clay, concrete and slate tiles with a variety of different colors to choose from. Tile roofs are exceptionally resistant to water, frost, fire, wind and insect damage, lasting for centuries rather than decades. You will notice a lot of people choose tile roofs in coastal areas due to their inability to decay. Tile roofing is also energy efficient and low maintenance. This roof sounds amazing, right? While they are worth the money, they are very expensive. Probably one of the more expensive roofing materials. The material is difficult to install and would need to be installed by a roofing professional. Also, this product is not going to be suitable for all roof slopes. The material is very heavy and your roofing contractor should evaluate the structure to make sure the weight can be supported.
A durable, long-lasting roof is vital to your home. If you would like a consultation to see what roofing material would be the most effective and efficient for your home and budget, book your appointment by calling Byars Construction, LLC at (361)703-7505.
By Chelsea Vann
