A Guide To Roofing Materials

No matter the design, material or structural integrity of your roof, there will come a time when it bows to the elements and needs to be replaced. And when that time comes, your choice of roofing materials could have major influence on the appearance and even monetary worth of your home. So let’s start with the basics:

1. Style: Does the architecture of your home fit into a certain building style, i.e. country, rustic, European or modern.
2. Insurance: some insurance companies will give you a discount on specific materials, i.e. ones with particular impact-resistance. And be sure to check the safety codes within your area.
3. Climate: While weighing your options, you should consider the climate you live in since, as strong winds, heavy rainfalls, could exclude certain materials.
4. Requirements: every material comes with its own pros and cons so be sure to check the life expectancy, cost, potential maintenance issues, so you can make an informed decision.

Now that you know the basics, let’s get into your list of options and their individual pros and cons:

Asphalt Fiberglass Shingles

These shingles are made of asphalt embedded with fiberglass or cellulose for extra strength and stability. Some of the advantages of these shingles is that it work with most architectural styles while it require little maintenance. These are affordable and can be easily installed. Lasting up to 50 years, these are available in various color options. But these are not very insulating

Wood Shingles (Machine-Cut) & Shakes (Hand-Cut)

Wooden roofs are a centuries old practice and with time, these roofs change into a shade of gray over time. However, the detrimental fact is that these shingles are flammable, susceptible to mold, rot and splitting while needing more maintenance than most materials.

Masonry Tiles

The masonry tiles are well-suited for warm and dry climate as they are strong and durable. However, the downside is that it has low life-expectancy in humid or frigid temperatures.

Metal

This is one of the most long lasting materials and is always cut and formed at site. Some of the benefits include that it can be made to look like shingles and can be over-put over-top an older roof. However, it is not suited for curved or complex roofs.

Flat or Low-Slope

These are multiple options available such as EPDM aka rubber roofing, thermo-polyolefin (TPO) and PVC. The disadvantage is that it can only be installed, repaired and replaced by experienced roofing contractors. Additionally, it is prone to leaking.

Solar Shingles & -Roofing

These eco-friendly options are easily integrated into standard asphalt shingle roof and are getting increasingly popular. However these are less efficient than standard solar panels. As always, if, and when, the time comes to repair and maintain your existing roof, be sure to reach out to a reliable Roofing Contractor in Menlo Park to do it for you.