Roofs keep homes (and the people inside) protected from the elements. They also enhance the curb appeal and value of homes. There are different types of roofs, and builders usually select a certain type based on their preference and/or local requirements.

What are some different types of roofs?

#1 Asphalt Shingle Roofs: 

Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing materials today. People prefer asphalt shingles because they are effective and protect the home in all sorts of environmental conditions. These roofs are effective in protecting the house against a strong wind– they are very durable. For instance, if you are living in a hail prone area then you should get impact-resistant asphalt shingles.

Key things about asphalt shingles:

  • Made of fiberglass, asphalt, and minerals.
  • Low cost.
  • Wide variety of roof shingle colors available.
  • May need to be updated every 20 years or so depending on sunlight and temperature conditions.
  • Durable.
  • Easy to install.
  • Will fade over time.

Advantage Of Having An Asphalt Shingle Roof: The installation cost of an asphalt shingle roof is reasonable compared to other roofing systems. Although they are thinner in comparison to other roofing material, they are quite durable and fully compliant with an energy system that helps in keeping the roof cool even during summers. The average service life of asphalt shingle roofs is about two to three decades.

Disadvantage Of Having An Asphalt Shingle Roof: If you live in a storm-prone area, then consider thicker asphalt roofs so that you won’t have to change the upper layer of the roof whenever a storm occurs.

#2 Clay and Concrete Tile Roofing:

Clay and concrete roof tiles are sturdy and have the ability to withstand damage caused by tornadoes or hurricanes or cyclones. Clay and concrete tile roofs are good in warm, dry climates. Sometimes such roofs might require extra support to bear their weight, and they are likely to break when walked on.

What to know:

  • Great in dry climates.
  • Heavier so they may require more support or framing. Recommended that these types of tiles are installed by a
  • professional.
  • Add texture and curb appeal to the roof.
  • Concrete will be less expensive than clay.
  • Work well on Mediterranean and Spanish-style homes.
  • Durable and can last up to 50 years.

Advantage Of Having Clay And Concrete Roof: Clay and concrete roofs are beneficial for people who wish to enhance the curb appeal of their house. With a clay and concrete roofing system, you get superb visual appeal that has the potential to last for 50 years or sometimes longer.

Disadvantage Of Having Clay And Concrete Roof: The clay and concrete roofing system is generally expensive and you would need a strong framing to support the roof. You would also have to be very careful to not walk on the tiles because they can be brittle.

#3 Wood Shingle Roof: 

Wood shingle roofs are made up of thin wedge-shaped pieces of natural wood. Generally, cedar or yellow pine is used for designing wood shingle roofs. Wood roofs are extremely attractive but they are difficult to install. They are flammable and can easily catch fire. So having a wood roof would not be a good choice for a location where there are seasonal wildfire hazards.

What to know:

  • Wood roofs are expensive.
  • The average service life is about 30 years in a dry climate and 15 -20 years in a wet climate.
  • While choosing wood shingles, ensure that you are getting thin, precisely cut slabs of wood.

Advantage Of Having A Wooden Roof: It is mainly used for enhancing the curb appeal of the house.

Disadvantage Of Having A Wooden Roof: It is not at all safe for areas that are prone to wildfires. Moreover, it is very expensive to repair or replace.

#4 Metal Roofs: 

Metal roofing provides a modern look to the house and is available in a wide variety of panels and patterns. You can get different types of tile, slates, and even shake.

Metal roofing would be perfect for you if you have a flat or steep roofline. Metal roofs are extremely durable and can withstand any sort of weather condition. They are not very expensive since they are made from galvanization of copper, tin, zinc, and aluminum. With proper maintenance, a metal roof can last up to 50 or 60 years. Metal roofs are quite beneficial in channeling the flow of snow and rainwater which prevents the roof from dampening.

Advantages Of Having A Metal Roof:

  • Extremely durable
  • Gives a modern look
  • Resists high winds
  • Fire resistant

Disadvantage Of Having Wooden Roof:

  • The metal roof generally expands in summer due to extreme heat.

Summary:

All the aforementioned types of roofs are good. The selection of the roof depends on your preferences and needs. Moreover, you must also consider the weather factor while choosing the roof so that you do not have to keep on adding on to the maintenance cost just to keep it safe.