8 Types of Roofing Materials for Your Home

The roof is one of the most important sections of your home since it offers protection from weather elements. A roof also provides warmth and can increase the value of your home. However, you will only reap these benefits if you select the right type of roofing material. Keep reading to learn about the common types of roof materials for the home.

1. Solar Tiles

A solar tile is a recently created roofing material that is attractive and can reduce your energy bills. The tiles trap and convert solar power into electricity.

Unfortunately, solar tiles remain extremely expensive and require long installation periods. Also, solar tiles are not very strong and may be ineffective in areas with minimal sunlight.

2. Composite, Fiberglass, and Asphalt Shingles

Shingles appear in about 90% of all houses in the United States because the material is cheap. The shingles are beautiful and can remain functional for more than 30 years. Moreover, the installation process for shingles is relatively quick and straightforward.

Most shingles are a combination of multiple materials, like mineral composite, asphalt, and fiberglass. This combination leads to materials with a wide range of colors. However, extended exposure to the elements causes the shingles' color to fade over time.

The strength and appearance of the shingles depend on whether you select three-tab or architectural shingles. Architectural shingles are quite expensive but last longer than three-tab shingles.

3. Clay and Concrete Tiles

Concrete and clay tiles can be scalloped, ribbed, or flat. This material has an extended lifespan but can be very heavy. Furthermore, concrete tiles are cheap and versatile. You can use this material on Spanish, Mission, and Mediterranean-style homes.

4. Metal

Metal roofs are ideal in places that experience harsh weather conditions. Metal roofs are available in multiple types, including stainless steel, copper, zinc, and aluminum. Moreover, you can install the materials as shingles or panels. Metal roofs are durable and recyclable but can be quite costly.

5. Slate

Consider slate if you are searching for natural material for your roof. The material is organic and eco-friendly since it comes from the earth. In addition, slate is available in multiple patterns and colors that can bring a distinct and unique appearance to your roof.

Another key benefit of slate is that it can withstand heavy rainfall and powerful winds. However, slate is heavy and requires specialized installation that can be costly and challenging.

6. Wood

Wood is an excellent roof material that is also eco-friendly and has a long lifespan. However, the material is costly and rots easily in areas with high moisture concentrations. Hence, you will have to create an additional coating layer for the wood, which may be expensive in the long term.

7. Rubber

Rubber material for roofs is available in shingles or rolls for easy installation. Most rubber materials are dark or black and consist of recycled particles. As a result, the rubber roofs resemble asphalt shingle roofs.

Rubber rolls have the same durability as rubber shingles, but the rolls will be more expensive. Nevertheless, most homeowners prefer the rolls because of easier and cheaper maintenance. Regardless, if you maintain it well, you can expect the rubber roof to serve you for up to 25 years.

8. Foam

Foam roofing is easy to install and doesn't create seams. You can install the material within one or two days and expect it to be strong enough to withstand the elements. Foam also provides better insulation and is lightweight. However, foam is typically available in white color only, and you have to replace the material more frequently than other roofing materials.

Protect Your Roof

Your roof plays a key role in your home but requires proper installation and regular maintenance. Maynor Roofing, Siding & Home Repair can help you with roof installation, inspection, and repairs. Contact us to get a quote.