When you are renovating an old home or even building one from scratch, you have a lot of big decisions to make about the materials that you use. It’s important that you find a balance between price, quality, and energy efficiency. There are certain areas where you can cut corners and go for the cheapest option, but one area where you need to think carefully is the roof. You can’t take any chances because a leak in the roof will cause damp problems throughout the home and that will be incredibly expensive to deal with. But a lot of people don’t know where to start with roofing materials because there are a lot of different options. If you find yourself in this position, this guide to different roofing materials should help you out.
ASPHALT SHINGLES
Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing materials and around 70% of homes use them. However, that number is declining. They’re popular because they’re a cost effective solution and they insulate well, so if you want a more eco-friendly home, they can be a good option. They come in a range of different colors and they look good, so they’ll work well on almost any home. However, they are not the most durable material and the cheaper ones may need to be replaced every 10 years or so. More expensive ones will last longer, but they still need to be replaced more often than other materials. That means that you will spend more in the long term even though they are the most cost effective material in the short term.
METAL
Metal roofing is making a big comeback at the moment because it is one of the most durable options out there. A sheet metal roof will last a lot longer than an asphalt shingle one so if you plan to stay in a property for a long while, it’s your best option. It’s also the most compatible with solar panels so if you plan on producing your own energy, a metal roof is the best choice. The initial cost of metal roofing is quite a bit more than asphalt shingles, but is hard wearing and it will last a lot longer so you will make big savings over time.
ROOF TILES
Clay roof tiles are the most expensive roofing option, but there are a lot of benefits to them. They’re incredibly hard wearing and fire resistant, so they will protect your home from the elements. If you live somewhere with a hot climate, you can use lighter colored clay tiles to reflect heat and help to keep your home cool. Most people agree that they look better than metal or asphalt tiles as well. If you are willing to invest a bit more money, clay is often the best choice. The only potential issue is the weight of the tiles because, in some cases, you may need to add more support to the attic before you put them on.
These are your best options for roofing materials when renovating or building a home. Which one you choose depends on your own priorities in terms of budget and longevity.
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This has been a collaborative post. All thoughts and opinions expressed above are not my own
