The Ultimate Guide to Different Types of Roofs
If you’re a homeowner, you know that there’s a lot to understand about your home. But your roof is no different! That’s why it’s so important to understand the different types of roofs before choosing what’s right for your home.
With so many potential options available, choosing a roofing type and material can be overwhelming. Fortunately, knowing what you’re looking for and the benefits of each material can help!
If you’re looking for new roof installation or roof replacement in Los Angeles, reach out to the experienced professionals at Best Roofing!
What Are the Most Common
Types Of Roof?
When it comes to houses around your neighborhood, there are a few different types of roofs you can count on seeing a lot of. No matter what you choose, every kind of roof offers different benefits to the homeowner.
Shingle Roof
This type of roof is easily the most popular in the United States, and there are a few reasons for that! Asphalt shingles are very durable and can last for 15-20 years if they’re cared for properly. They’re also available in many different styles and colors, so you can keep up with the current roofing trends!
Tile Roof
If you live in Southern California, you’re probably pretty familiar with the clay tile roofs common to the region. You might not be aware though that tiles are available in materials like wood and slate too! In addition to their aesthetic appeal, tile roofs offer great energy efficiency and longevity.
Flat Roof
This type of roof can commonly be spotted on industrial or commercial buildings. However, it’s made an appearance on many homes and residences due to its functionality and aesthetic. If installed correctly, flat roofs are easy to maintain and a more affordable option than many roofing styles.
What Are the Most Popular
Roofing Materials?
When it comes to selecting the right roofing material for your roof type, there are many factors to consider. Different materials offer varying levels of durability, resistance to weather and environmental conditions, and energy efficiency. Additionally, the aesthetic appeal of a roofing material is an important consideration, as it can significantly impact the look and value of your home or building.
Asphalt
Few materials are more common when it comes to roofing than asphalt shingles. With versatility and durability, there is a lot you can expect from this material.
Asphalt shingles have the benefit of being one of the most economical options when it comes to roof installation and reroofing. They can also last for approximately 20 years.
In addition to their Class A fire rating and resistance against the elements, they are one of the easiest materials to work with. Most contractors have experience working with this material since it’s a common choice for roofing.
Clay
Clay is one of the most popular roofing materials in Southern California. In fact, this material is available in a wide variety of colors so you can find an option that suits your home’s color palette as well as your personal taste.
Because clay is a natural material, it’s environmentally-friendly and has an understated aesthetic. Its price can be a deterrent since it’s one of the more expensive materials. However, it can last up to 100 years when cared for properly, saving you on repairs and eventual replacement!
If you’re interested in the different types of roof tiles, it’s important to deal with an experienced roofing contractor who understands the pros and cons of each. Tiles require a certain degree of expertise to install correctly.
Slate
Few materials can compete with slate for aesthetic appeal. It also has the benefit of versatility since it’s available in colors like green and blue.
Like clay, slate is a more costly option, but it has more durability than a material like asphalt and can last for 50-100 years! It also holds up against the elements and can stand up against mold, pests, and fires.
Because slate is a heavier roofing material that can tax your roof, its installation will require an experienced roofing contractor to ensure your slate roof is installed to perfection.
Concrete
This roofing material is one of the oldest in existence and has stood the test of time for a reason. In addition to being versatile, concrete can be a more cost-effective option than many different types of residential or commercial roofs.
Concrete can hold its own against the worst of weather conditions and can hold up for 50-100 years.
However, this material requires an experienced roofer because the installation process can be quite laborious. Be sure to choose a trusted local professional! Our experts are here to help you through this process, if you consider that you need a new roof installed, you can check our article: “6 Signs It’s Time for Roof Replacement“
What Should I Consider When
Choosing a Roof Material?
Before you decide between the different types of roofs available for your home, there are a few things to consider:
The Cost
An asphalt shingle roof may be more economically friendly while materials like clay and slate are expensive. However, everything shouldn’t come down to cost. A more expensive material can last for several decades before it needs to be replaced.
Durability
Most of the different types of roofing materials are made to stand up to the elements. While asphalt shingles are resistant to fire and wind, materials like slate and clay have even better durability. The climate you’re living in can help to determine the ideal choice for your home.
Energy Efficiency
The right roofing material can go a long way towards lowering your utility bills and ensuring your roof lasts. Depending on where you live, be sure to choose a material that can reflect heat and maintain indoor comfort.
Your Home’s Style
Cost and durability may be important, but how your new roof will look once it’s installed is an important factor to consider! Certain types of homes may look better with asphalt shingles, while others can look great with concrete or slate tiles. You may want to break with tradition, but your roofing material should match your home.
What Should I Consider
When Choosing a
Roofing Material?
Selecting the right type of roof and material may seem overwhelming at first. Fortunately, having more options can be beneficial if you understand the advantages and disadvantages of each! Before you decide, it’s important to consider the cost, aesthetic, and durability of the material you’re looking for. The different types of roofs all have benefits, but the ideal choice should be determined by your own taste, budget, and household needs.
If you’re considering your options and you don’t know whether you should reroof your home or get a new roof installed, check out our blog: “New Roof Installation vs. Reroofing: What’s the Difference“.
The friendly experts at Best Roofing would be happy to walk you through your options so you can make an informed decision! Reach out to Best Roofing today at (818) 804-4599 to schedule a free consultation and complimentary quote!
