The Types of Roofing You Can Consider For Your Next Home Improvement

A good roof can last decades, It’s an investment in your home that can increase its property value, make it more attractive, and help you improve the energy efficiency of your home by as much as 30%. But what kind of roofing is best for you?

Choosing a roof is a balancing act between practical needs and visual appeal. Here are 8 types of roofing to consider for your next home improvement project.

1. Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are a common roofing material. They work in a variety of climates and are more affordable than most types of roofing. The typical lifespan of an asphalt shingle roof is about 20 years. There is a range of quality to consider based on how common weather trends like high winds or hail are in your area.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Versatile for many climates

Cons:

• Plain in appearance
• Shorter lifespan

2. Metal

Metal roofs have a quaint appearance. They are durable and can last as much as 50-60 years. They stand up well to all kinds of weather, though they are loud when it rains. Good quality metal roofing will resist corrosion and weather damage. Metal roofs can be very simple or involve intricate patterns and custom designs. The price of a standard metal roof is mid-range compared to other types of roofing.

Pros:

• Attractive
• Durable
• Affordable

 Cons:

• Loud in rain
• May corrode

3. Clay Tiles

Clay tiles are ideal for warm climates. They stand up well in heavy rain and high winds, making them a reliable choice for places with frequent storms. Their brick-like colour makes them an attractive and versatile style that suits many types of homes. These tiles can last about 50 years.

Pros:

• Highly resistant to rain and wind
• Attractive
• Long lifespan

Cons:

• Not as well suited to cold climates

4. Green Roof

Green roofs are covered in plants like grass or other plants. They’re a bit high-maintenance, but the benefits like reducing water runoff and improving insulation efficiency are appealing. A green roof can last about 40 years. In this case, your roof will be both green in colour and environmentally friendly.

Pros:

• Efficient
• Eco-friendly
• Long-lasting

  Cons:

• More complex to install
• Some maintenance required

5. Slate

Slate roofing is attractive and highly durable. There is a wide variety of styles to choose from to suit many different home designs. Slate roofs are extremely durable, and can last 100 years or more! They are more costly, but that should be weighed against the fact that you’d have to pay for 2-4 installations of any other type of roofing to match the lifespan of a slate roof. Consider some home improvement financing if you have your heart set on a more expensive roofing option like slate tiles because they’re definitely worth the charges.

Pros:

• Extremely long-lasting
• Attractive
• Versatile

Cons:

• Expensive
• Requires special care/maintenance

6. Solar Tiles

Solar tiles are special roof tiles that mix in with regular roof tiles and generate solar power for your home. They’re an alternative to full solar panels. If you have strict HOA rules or just don’t like the look of solar panels, solar tiles can give you the same benefits without the large panels.

Pros:

• Generate solar power
• More attractive than solar panels
• Blend with regular tiles

Cons:

• More expensive than solar panels
• Require special installation

7. Wood

Wood shingles and wood shakes have a beautiful appearance and can last up to 25+ years. Because wood is an organic material, these shingles can warp or crack in harsh weather conditions so they’re best for dry climates. They do require a bit of extra maintenance and TLC to ensure they stay in good shape. Damaged tiles must be replaced immediately.

Pros:

• Unique
• Organic

Cons:

• More easily damaged than other types
• Require special maintenance

8. Built-Up Roofing

If your home has a flat top then built-up roofing is an option. This means that your roof is layered with asphalt, tar, gravel, or other materials. This can last about 25 years and is a more economical option for flat roofs.

Pros:

• Cost-effective
• Good for flat roofs

Cons:

• Can be damaged in extreme heat or cold
• Not as attractive as other roofing options

Conclusion

There are many styles of roofing to choose from. To narrow your search, start by thinking about your budget, the style of your home, and the climate where you live. Also, consider how much maintenance you’re willing to put in. Connect with a roofing specialist to explore the style options within the categories you like best. The improvements in the home can take heavy  Most roofers can do any basic style, but if you’re going for a specialized category like green roofing, solar tiles, or slate then make sure to find a company that has plenty of experience with those materials.