Roofing is a construction specialty that involves a wide range of projects, from residential buildings to commercial buildings and everything in between. A roof protects the structural core of a structure, providing protection from rain, sun, snow, ultra-violet light, extreme temperatures, and wind damage. A roof isn’t just a cover, though. It also serves to reinforce the structure by providing additional structural support, insulating heat, ventilating spaces, and defining boundaries. The roof also adds aesthetic value with its ability to block sunlight and its contribution to the aesthetics of a space.
Roofing materials come in many forms and use various technologies. The most commonly used types are flat roofs and slanted roofs. Flat roofs are typically made out of shingles, shakes, or tile. While these materials are cheaper than asphalt shingles, they tend to not hold up as well in heavy weather. They also tend to cost more to install, which results in a homeowner choosing another type of roofing material for their home.
Shingles are typically made out of wood fibers, but can be applied to metal, ceramic, stone, slate, or plastic. Shingles are usually the cheapest roofing type available because they are the least resilient to changing climates and are therefore the least energy efficient. The result is that they are rarely replaced due to their high maintenance. The less maintenance you have to do means the less money you pay for them over time, but if you do have to replace your old shingles, you’ll need to replace each and every one because unlike asphalt shingles, they don’t change in shape or size.
Concrete tiles are a popular choice for newer homes, but because of their durability and cost-effectiveness, they aren’t the ideal roofing materials for older homes. Because of this, concrete tiles are often used on the tops of multi-story homes, where the weight would be an issue. However, since concrete tiles are expensive to install, it’s often not a cost-effective option for replacing old asphalt shingles on a home’s top. Also, concrete tiles are porous and easily damaged by weather and water, which mean that they will need to be replaced more often.
Finally, the most expensive roofing material, which costs more than all of these materials combined, is rubber slate. Rubber slate roofing material comes in two basic forms: thin exterior sheeting and exterior rubber tar paper. Thin exterior sheeting is more fragile and can be damaged more easily than tar paper, which means that it is more suited for older homes where damage isn’t as likely. Both types of rubber slate are good options for replacing asphalt shingles on multi-story roofs, though.
Roofing is a big project and requires the help of many professionals. It is a great idea to consult a professional roofer before tackling your roofing project to make sure that you are choosing the best products, materials, and techniques to meet your needs. If you want to learn about the different roofing materials available, be sure to visit online sites that offer tips and advice on how to replace, repair, and install your own roofing systems. Find the information you need today and contact a professional to make sure your roofing project is completed with ease.