More on Roofing and Roofing Materials

What types of Roofing Materials Should you Use?

There are many roofing materials on the market, but not every material should be considered for every roof. A low sloping or flat roof may require a surface much different from roof with a steep pitch. Slate and tiles are very heavy so the structure of the home must be strong enough to handle these materials. Consider all the options to be able to choose the best options for your home.

Materials

• Asphalt shingles are the most commonly used shingle materials. Asphalt shingles are the least expensive and require little skill to install. They are made from fiberglass materials that have been impregnated with asphalt and have a surface of sandy granules. The standard single thickness is one the one used on most homes and thicker laminated produces are also available. Laminated shingles are appealing in texture and last longer than regular asphalt shingles. They are fairly expensive.
• Wood shingles was the basic choice of shingles for centuries and is still a viable option though in some areas fire codes prevent wood singles. Usually wood shingles are made of cedar, southern pine, or redwood. They are sawn or spilt and placed in patterns on a roof. They last about twenty-five years, but do cost more than twice as much as asphalt shingles.
• Metal shingles are made from copper, aluminum, steel, copper-and-asphalt, and lead. All are highly durable but very expensive. Lead and copper or copper/asphalt is installed in a shingle pattern, but other types are used for seamed roofs involving vertical lengths and linked with solder. These types of roofing materials start at $250 per square foot, but usually cost much more than that.
• Tile and cement roofing materials are customary on Spanish and Mission style homes and there are metal roofs that can replicate tile’s undulating effect. These are extremely expensive but are durable and heavy clay materials.
• Slate is the most durable of all roofing materials. Slate quality varies from manufacture to manufacturer but the best will endure longer than the clasps that actually hold slate in place. Slate is a hundred years old is often reused. Typically prices for a slate roof begin at $800 per square foot. Slate is also extremely heavy. 

When trying to determine what type of roofing materials you need, the existing roof of your home will be the major factor in determining the roofing you will be able to use. If you want to consider different options you need to consider the cost, color, weight, texture and durability. You may also want to see what is commonly used in your neighborhood.

Do keep in mind that you will also need building felt or tar paper before working with shingles, and if working with cedar, spans of furring strips will be placed across the roof. This will allow the roof to breathe. In snowy and cold areas, snow and ice shield membranes may also be laid. Keep in mind the time you will be living in your house. If you plan to sell quickly, a very expensive roof is not practical.