Are you ready for a new roof for your home? Then you are probably in the research phase and there is a lot of roofing information out there and you likely find yourself drowning in questions. What type of roofing is best? How much will a new roof cost? What is the most cost-effective roofing material? How long will my new roof last and what are the longest-lasting shingle types? Are shingle roofs or metal roofs better? These questions can go on and on and on. And you may be having trouble figuring out where to start in your research process. For more information, visit our website at theelizabethroofers.com.
While you might be feeling a little overwhelmed right now, rest assured that replacing your roof does not have to be so complicated. A good deal of the questions you are currently considering can be answered by selecting the type of roofing materials you want to use on your home. Questions centered around the cost to replace your roof, how long the process will take, and how long your new roof will last, will be answered, at least in part, by selecting your roofing materials.
There is no shortage of roofing materials to select from and this guide is designed to educate you on some of the top 10 most popular options.
1. Built-Up Roofing
Built-up roofing, also known as BUR, is one of the oldest roofing types still available today. BUR roofs are layers of felt and asphalt. After several layers are applied, the roof is then topped with stone that has been finely crushed, that is laid on top of extremely hot tar for added durability and waterproofing.
BUR roofing can last anywhere from 20 to 30 years and costs around $2.50 to over $5 per foot to install.
2. Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are extremely popular for most homeowners. They are three-tab shingles containing asphalt and mineral, placed on top of a fiberglass base. They are versatile and will work well for most homes and they are affordable.
They can last 12 to 30 years, depending on the quality of the shingles you choose, and only cost between $1.50 to $4.50 per square to install.
3. Metal Shingles and Shakes
Metal shingles are becoming increasingly popular for their versatile design options and durability. These shingles are either made from aluminum or steel, shakes are also available. While metal shingles and shakes cost a little more than traditional asphalt shingles, their longevity more than makes up for the costs.
They last anywhere from 30 to 50 years, and their costs are $7 to $20 per square foot to install.
4. Clay Tile
As the name implies, clay tiles are created from earthen clays that are made into interlocking molds and hardened. These are typically a red-orange color but there are some customization options available with glazing. This type of tile is a great option for homeowners living in desert areas, or in warmer climates next to coastal regions with salty sea air.
If properly installed and maintained, a clay tile roof can last anywhere from 50 to 100 years. This longevity comes with a high price tag ranging anywhere from $10 to $30 per square foot to install.
5. Concrete Tile
Concrete tiles are similar to clay tiles in a lot of ways. They use similar installation processes and they also pack some serious longevity. They differ in the fact that they are made of a concrete sand mixture, which means you can select almost any color you would like for your roof. You can sometimes select a decorative coating finish for your concrete tiles as well. If you live in a region that often experiences a lot of high winds, concrete tiles are a good option for you.
Concrete tiles last up to 50 years or longer, and they require less maintenance than clay tiles. They cost between $10-$15 per square foot to install.
6. Standing Seam Metal Roofing
Metal roofing materials are also known for their durability and standing seam metal roofing is a good example of this. It is made of either steel or aluminum panels that are raised seams that are designed to interlock and prevent moisture from entering your home. Metal roofing materials are a fantastic option if you live in a region at risk for wildfires or experience heavy snowfall.
You can expect standing seam metal roofs to last anywhere from 30 to 75 years and they can cost $6 to $12 per square foot to install.
7. Wood Shingles
Wood shingles are aesthetically pleasing and can add a good deal of curb appeal to your home. On the downside, they are a little limited, they tend to be more on the expensive side and they are not known for their longevity. Wood roofing materials also tend to be a bad option in areas with a lot of wildfires. Basically, the only reason homeowners choose wood shingles is for their attractive features. The shingles and shakes are made from natural wood, often cedar but can be made from redwood as well.
In most climates, wood shingles will last from 25-30 years but in dryer regions they can last up to 60 years. The average cost is $100 to $150 per square foot to install.
8. Slate Shingles
Slate shingles are another visually appealing roofing material to choose. In addition to their beauty, slate roofs are durable and can last a really long-time. Made from thin sheets of stone, they are highly effective at keeping moisture out of your home. A slate rooftop can last up to 75 to 200 years! They cost an average of $9 to $20 per square foot to install.
9. Synthetic Slate Tile
Synthetic slate tiles are a more affordable option and stand-in for traditional slate tiles. They are made of engineered polymers and recycled rubber and plastic but they look just like real slate. They are more lightweight, which is great for homes that cannot support the weight of real slate tiles. Synthetic tiles can last up to 50 years and only cost from $3 to $6 per square foot to install.
10. Rolled Roofing
Rolled roofing is a good option if you live in a low-slope home. It is made of rolls of mineral and asphalt-impregnated material then topped with mineral granules. The advantages of rolled roofing materials are that it is fast, easy, and fairly inexpensive to install.
They only last about 10 years but cost as little as $1.50 to $2.50 per square foot to install.
Final Thoughts on Roofing Materials
Deciding to replace your roof comes with a lot of questions but you can make the process easier on yourself by selecting your roofing materials. Once you have made this decision, the rest of the process will be less of a hassle. If you are having a hard time deciding on the right materials for your home, a professional roofing company in your area will be able to assist you in this aspect.
