There are many different types of roofing that is being installed on homes today. While your home has a specific type of roofing material installed such as shingle roofing or metal roofing you may be able to change the roofing materials to a different system. Learning about the different roofing systems that are available today and what questions you should discuss with the roofing contractor in Canton Michigan about your roof can help you better understand what is available for your home.
If you are interested in switching up the style of your roof you may want to consider changing your covering material. But if you aren’t informed about the different options, you can end up choosing something that will not give you what you are looking for. To make the right choice for your roof, here are the most common materials and some of the advantages and disadvantages that come with them.
Better Understanding Your Roofing Material Options in Canton Michigan
Here are some of the types of roofing systems and materials that are available today:
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most common option for roof coverings because they are affordable and easy to replace. They come in a simple 3-tab style, or an architectural option, which is heavier and more expensive, but provides more aesthetic. Asphalt shingles have a relatively short lifespan compared to other materials, but have the lowest upfront cost and are the easiest to install.
Metal Sheeting
Metal sheeting or shingles are becoming increasingly popular as aluminum and stainless steal replace the old-fashioned tin. Galvanized metal is rust-proof, and metal sheeting is both fire resistant and waterproof. Sheeting can make it much more difficult for water to get in, and it can better withstand strong winds than separate shingles.
Metal will be slippery when wet, making it important to stay off it. Rain and hail can also make noise when it hits the roof.
Wood Shake
Wood shake provide you with a very unique look with lots of texture, creating a beautiful and classic aesthetic. They can greatly increase your curb appeal, and help catch the eyes of your neighbors. However, wood is a porous material, even when treated. This means that you will need to provide it with lots of maintenance to prevent warping, rotting, mildew and mold.
Slate
Slate is a very durable material designed to last a minimum of 40 years. When well maintained, you can expect to see your slate covering last up to 175 years, making it one of the longest lasting materials. Slate is fire resistant, looks great, and are heavy enough to stay under strong winds.
While slate is a great option for your home, it is a very heavy material. This makes it important to inspect your roof before installation, and have regular inspections after to make sure it is structurally holding together. Slate also needs to be cared for and will be expensive to install because of the material cost and difficult installation.
Clay Tile
Clay tiles are a good choice for homes in climates like Florida, where hurricanes are common and weather is warm. This is because clay can withstand winds and resist mold. The coloring also helps reflect heat, rather than absorbing the sun’s rays and raising the temperature in your home.
If you choose clay tiles you will need to replace them every 10 to 20 years, making them last about the same amount of time as asphalt shingles. They also come with more maintenance than slate and more weight than shingles. You should also never walk on clay tiles.
Concrete Tile
Concrete is a surprisingly affordable option for roof coverings, costing between $150 and $250 per every 100 square feet. It is also fire resistant and can handle a wide range of weather conditions.
Concrete is another heavy material, making it important to keep your roof structurally sound. Otherwise, you can be subject to sagging and even cave ins, posing a major safety concern. You also need to depend heavily on sealant to hold the material in place. Without proper sealing, concrete tiles can allow space for moisture to get in and create damage. It can also pose a safety risk if the concrete tiles fall off the roof.
It’s always best to talk with a qualified roofing contractor about your home’s roof and what all may be involved in changing the roofing system. Call Twelve Oaks Roofing for a free quote on roofing for your Canton Michigan home at 248-525-6950
