What's Up On The Roof?

Yes, even roofs can be trendy! What's your style?

Energy efficiency factors into many of  today's homeowner decisions regarding renovations and remodeling. Because the roof covers a large and visible area of a home, you should be mindful of the roofing materials you choose when replacing a roof. A roof is one of the most expensive parts of a house, and a new one is expected to last at least 20 years before it needs to be replaced. This time frame, however, depends on a few variables. Some factors include the climate in your area, the quality of the roofing material used and the maintenance over the years. 

Four main factors will impact your new roof decision: appearance, longevity, roofing material prices and structural issues. The traditional choices for roofing materials include asphalt composite shingles, metal shingles, wood shakes and shingles, and clay tiles. But, with more eco-friendly materials on the market, you may want to choose a more durable material than one currently on your roof.

Asphalt composite shingles are the most popular roofing materials in North America. Priced at between $1.50 and $4.50 per square foot, asphalt shingles are the least expensive option and are a good choice for most homes. They are made of a fiberglass base topped with asphalt, and are lightweight and durable. An organic version is available at a premium price and is slightly heavier. Depending on the material quality, roofs done with asphalt shingles are expected to last between 15 and 30 years. Asphalt shingles come in a wide variety of colors to complement the style of your home. Keep in mind that darker colors will absorb heat, while lighter colors will reflect heat and keep your house cooler.

Metal shingles have become quite popular lately, given their durability and versatility. Metal shingles can be produced to replicate the look of wood, clay or slate. This material, given its resistance to extreme weather such as heavy rains, hailstorms and high winds, is popular in areas that are prone to natural disasters. Metal shingles are available in a wide range of colors and finishes. The cost for metal shingles is between $8 and $16 per square foot.

Wood shakes and shingles are visually very appealing, but they do have some drawbacks. They are not as durable as some other materials and would not be the best choice in areas prone to wildfires. They are, however, still popular among luxury homeowners. Both shakes and shingles are made of natural wood, usually cedar. Shakes are thinner and produced by precise sawing, while shingles are produced by splitting wood, so they have a rougher texture. In favorable dry conditions, these roofs can last up to 60 years, although in damper climates, life expectancy is 20-30 years. Shingles cost between $4.50 and $9 per square foot and shakes cost between $6.50 and $14.

Clay tiles are known to be the most durable roofing materials, with some installations lasting more than a century. Made from molded earthen clay, they are mostly left unglazed to give them their signature reddish-orange color. They can also be glazed to become ceramic roofing tiles. This is a popular choice associated with homes in the Southwest regions of the U.S. Clay tiles cost between $10 to $18 per square foot, while ceramic tiles can run as much as $30 per square foot. An alternative to clay tiles is concrete tiles, which have many of the same advantages as clay but at a lower cost. These tiles will cost between $10 and $20 a square foot, and they can be finished in a decorative coating to mimic clay.

Slate roofs are often found on luxury or Victorian homes. They are among the most durable, with a useful life expectancy of between 75 and 150 years. While it is easy to quarry slate, it is not easy to install and requires a highly skilled and experienced professional, not always an easy person or company to find. Slate roofs cost between $12-18 per square foot.  A lower-priced and easier to install synthetic version of slate is now available. From the ground, it is very difficult to distinguish it from the real thing. It is also a lighter eco-friendly material made from recycled plastic and rubber selling for between $9 and $12 per square foot. Life expectancy for a synthetic roof is 50 years.

Roofing materials and technologies are constantly evolving. There are even roofs that are smart and can detect leaks and damage! Solar sensors and panels are other features to consider when installing a new roof. Keep in mind that the more peaks, skylights or other roof features you have, the more it will cost to put on a new roof.

Contact us for information on reputable, local roofing contractors.