You can say a lot of things about roofs, and most of them might be true. But one thing that nobody can argue with is that roofs are tops. This statement can be taken in several ways. A roof does for the top of your home. It can also act like a "top" or lid for your home, keeping the rain out. Then, there's the third meaning, which is the one we happen to like the most: roofs are the best. (People say things are "tops" when they really like them.) Since we like roofs so much, we've decided to write about them, and you've discovered the blog where we do that.
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Roofs: They're Definitely at the Top!
Which Roof Is Best For You?
Brian Riley
If you're in need of a new roof, you may be wondering which material is right for you. Each type of roof has its own pros and cons, but they all protect your home from rain, UV, snow, wind, and other elements. If you would like to know more, keep reading.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are an incredibly common choice because they are affordable, durable, and work on many roofs. They are lightweight and work in just about any climate. They come in many colors, so you can choose one to match your home. You can also choose a light color to reflect the sun or a dark color to absorb the sun. Plus, if you want a more luxurious choice, architectural shingles have more dimension and style.
The downside: they are prone to moss growth. If you live in a climate with lots of rain, your asphalt roof may grow moss. Not only can this affect the aesthetics, but it can damage the roof. The moss roots dislodge the asphalt shingle granules, making the shingles less durable. The moss also acts as both a sponge and dam for water.
Wood Shingles
Wood shingles are another popular choice because of their aesthetics. They look good on many homes and provide a more rustic appeal. Plus, there are many types of woods from which to choose, including ones that may be more resistant to bugs and decay. Wood shingles are also great for recycling.
The downside of wood shingles is that you should keep them well protected to prevent UV, water, and bug damage. Wood shingles are also prone to moss growth.
Metal
Metal roofs have come a long way since they were first used. They are no longer loud because roofers use special dampers to mute the sound of falling rain or hail. They are more expensive than asphalt, but still affordable and last a long time. They are also less prone to damage from fire, pests, and rain. The metal can be painted just about any color.
On the downside, metal roofs are prone to denting. Therefore, it may not be a good choice if you have lots of branches hanging over your roof, or you live in an area with lots of hail.
Slate/Rubber Tile
Slate is a less common choice because of its cost. On top of that, it is so heavy that not all homes can support it. Usually, slate only works on steep roofs. These roofs have the extra support needed, and they allow excess debris, water, snow, etc. to fall off. Slate lasts an incredibly long time and needs little to no maintenance.
You can choose rubber tiles that mimic the look of slate. These are lighter than slate, so they can be used on just about any roof. However, the rubber tiles don't last as long as slate.
If you need a new roof, it's time to determine what material you need. Remember to consider how much you want to maintain the roof.
For more information, contact a residential roofer in your area today.
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