Roofs come in many styles and are built using a variety of materials. When you are deciding on what direction to go in for your new roof, it can be confusing. As the homeowner, you want to make choices for your new roof based on factors other than simply appearance. Today we want to talk about the variety of roofing material options available for residential roofs, and the pros and cons of different roofing materials.
Roofing Material Pros and Cons
Let’s start by discussing three types of roofing shingles: asphalt or architectural shingles, metal roofing, and clay or tile roofing shingles.
1. Asphalt Shingles
The list of pros of asphalt shingles are many:
Low Cost – While you can certainly spend a lot on this type of shingle, you do not need to in order to get a good product.
Variety – This type of shingle is versatile and offers many great looks for all styles of homes. It comes in a variety of colors as well to match your home and neighborhood.
Durable – These are sturdy and tough shingles designed to hold up under harsh weather conditions as well as provide fire resistance.
The cons of the asphalt shingle:
Lifespan – Asphalt shingles, while offering several years of protection to your home, don’t usually last quite as long as other common types of shingles.
Wind and Weather – After many years of extreme weather and heat conditions, asphalt shingles can deteriorate.
Asphalt shingles offer a cost-effective and versatile solution for many homeowners.
2. Metal Roofs
The pros to metal roofs are:
Attractive – Metal roofs are a wonderful choice for many homes because they work with many home styles, and offer a number of looks and colors.
Reliable – Metal roofs will certainly last a long time and are fire-resistant. Some communities will even require a metal roof on the homes in their neighborhoods. They can be coated in specialized paints and finishes to make the product stand up for up to 60 years or more.
The cons of metal roofs:
Communities – These might not be allowed in your neighborhood if they don’t fit the style of the homes already present.
Costs – While the metal roof might be an attractive option for your home, the costs can be prohibitive. Plus, a metal roof installation specialist will be required.
3. Tile Roofs
The pros to tile roofs include:
Stylish – This is the perfect roofing material for many homes. Tile roofs give a certain feel that can’t be matched by other shingles.
Long Lifespan – These types of roofing tiles can last a long time if treated well and maintained.
The cons of a tile roof:
Maintenance – While tile roofs can have a long lifespan, pieces of tile can break if walked upon, accumulate dirt and mold, and need cleaning. The maintenance of tile roofs can add up over time.
Cost – The install and materials for a tile roof can be high.
Weight – Tile roofs are heavier than other roofing systems, and will require reinforced roofing and attic structures that many homes might not be designed for.
It is, of course, a good idea to speak with your roofing team about the differences with the roofing systems you are considering. Your Austin roofing specialist can give you the best guidance to make the smart choice for your home.
Your Local Austin Area Roofing Professionals
We strive to bring you the best in roofing for the Austin, Texas area. We deliver decades of roofing experience, training, and knowledge in this area’s needs. We are a prominent roofing company in residential roof repair and roof replacement. We will not ask for a deposit on labor or materials as a dependable way to stand out from the competition while bringing you the best product and service in Austin.
When we inspect, install, or repair your roof, we want to provide you with the best options for your roof design, components, and ventilation. We are Master Elite Contractors bringing you the latest in roofing technology, and a member of our local area Better Business Bureau, so you know we take pride in our work and our community.
Contact us by phone or email to schedule your FREE roofing inspection and quote today.
