There are many factors to consider when selecting a roof including.
- How long will it last?
- Does it hold up during natural disasters such as wildfires or hurricanes?
- Is it too heavy for the existing roof framing?
- Does the roof have enough slope?
- Are the materials eco-friendly and recyclable?
- Will the look complement the style of the house?
- Is the type of roofing allowed by local building codes?
- And finally, how much does it cost?
Roofing Types
Some types of roofing may be better suited for your house than others. Factors such as the slope of the roof and strength of the framing could limit your choices.
1 .Metal
May be composed of steel, aluminum, copper, or zinc alloy. Steel roofs come with either a zinc coating or painted finish.May be made from recycled materials and can be recycled when replaced. Absorb a third less heat than asphalt.Fairly to very durable, depending on the material.Moderate (steel) to expensive (copper).30-50 yr
2. Plastic Polymer
Molded from a high-tech plastic polymer material.Yr 50+ Claimed to be long lasting and low maintenance. Some are made from recycled materials. Can be recycled when replaced.Cost: Moderate.Good fire and wind resistance
3. Clay Tile
Made from natural clay which is fired in a kiln.Yr 50+. Long lasting and low maintenance but brittle and can break.Excellent fire resistance, fair to low wind resistance
4. Concrete Tile
Made from a mixture of Portland cement and sand.Yr 50+. Long lasting and low maintenance but can break.Excellent fire resistance, fair to low wind resistance.Cost: Moderate.
5. Slate
Made from natural slate rock.Yr 75+. Good fire and wind resistance.Cost: Very expensive Requires specially trained workers to install.
6.Wood Shingles and Shakes
Commonly made of cedar, but can also be made of other rot resistant woods, such as redwood.Short lifespan and requires periodic maintenance.Good wind resistance, poor fire resistance (can be treated with a fire retardant).Cost: Moderate.
7. Asphalt Composition Shingles
Made of either an organic paper fiber mat (better for cold weather and wind resistance) or fiberglass (more fire and moisture resistant) impregnated with asphalt and coated with mineral granules.Petroleum based product that’s not eco-friendly. Can be recycled, though often taken to landfills.Not very durable. Algae resistant shingles are available in humid climates to prevent staining.Good fire resistance, fair wind resistance.Cost: Inexpensive to moderate.
