Like most things in your house, the roof also has an expiration date. If the time has come to replace it, there are many things you need to consider before you choose a new one. Durability, longevity, cost, and energy efficiency are just some of them. Whether you decide to hire an expert or to make the purchase on your own, here are some tips on roofing materials that will help you get clued up and make the best possible choice.
These are probably the most popular roofing material due to their cost-effectiveness. Their life span is between 15 and 30 years. Durability impacts the price which can vary greatly, so make sure you don’t choose the cheapest ones. They aren’t the most sustainable roofing material since they’re made of asphalt, but on the bright side, they are recyclable.
Although they beat asphalt shingles when it comes to longevity, they are not as durable. If this is your choice, know that your roof will last between 30 and 50 years. Wooden shingles are usually made of cedar or redwood, famous for being fire resistant. Just to be clear, this doesn’t mean they are fire-proof. Wooden shingles are less durable than the asphalt ones which means that they are more prone to cracking. Their energy efficiency is high and since they are completely natural, it makes them one of the most sustainable roofing materials on the market.
Being one of the oldest roofing materials, a roof made of slates can last between 75 and 150 years. No other material can come close to its durability. Finding out what is slate used for will probably make you realize that this is the best roofing material for your house. Price can vary, depending on the type of slate. However, even if you choose a cheaper type, it will guarantee you high quality as well as durability. Choose the right size, thickness, and grade that best fits your home’s design. The manufacturing process doesn’t include toxins so it’s without any doubt extremely sustainable roofing material.
The durability of metal roofs varies according to the type of metal which is used. Asphalt and wood are cheaper alternatives to steel, copper, zinc alloy, or aluminum. They have many advantages over other roofing materials. They are impact resistant and they are low-maintenance. Acting as a natural insulator makes metal roofs highly energy efficient. Since most metal roofs are made of recycled materials, it makes it clear that they are recyclable themselves.
This type of roofing material belongs to a group of insanely durable materials. They will last for more than 50 years and yet they need very little maintenance. The advantage of plastic is its durability, but on the other hand, it’s not a very sustainable option for your roof. If that’s important to you, look for manufacturers that use recycled plastic. Another great thing about this type of material is that it’s incredibly efficient when it comes to absorption of energy. That means that it will keep your house cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
Solar panels are great, but the solar glass roof is fantastic. It will without any doubt last for the lifetime of your house. It’s famous for its energy efficiency and extremely high hail rating. Sure, it’s definitely the most expensive roofing material you can find, but there’s more to it than it meets the eye. In the long run, it will actually save you money thanks to its durability and ability to generate its own energy. This will cut down the other expenses around the house. Because of this incredible characteristic, a solar-glass roof is considered to be one of the most sustainable roofing options there is.
If the time has come to replace your roof, the budget is usually the most important factor in the decision-making process. However, one thing that you should pay more attention to is the longevity of your roof. Since it’s usually a once-in-a-lifetime investment, you want your roof to last longer and be durable. Hopefully, these tips will help you find the best solution for your house.
