Metro Roofing Products

When old roofing begins to fail, it creates an immediate and urgent need, but investing in a professional roof replacement pays dividends long after solving the immediate crisis. As a Florida homeowner, you are concerned about the safety, durability, and long-term functionality of your roofing. While re-roofing too soon could be unwise, waiting too long puts your home and your financial investment in it at risk. Here are seven key long-term benefits of timely roof replacement that every homeowner should be aware of: 1. Reduce Roof Repair Needs & Costs As shingles age, the probability of a roof leak occurring gradually rises. New roofing is far less likely to spring a leak – it’s as simple as that. At some point, the maintenance costs of frequent roof repair needs begin to pile up and make it no longer worth it to delay roof replacement any longer. If you have to get a roof repair two, three, or more times every single year, odds are you’re better off in the long run by investing in a new roof. Higher-quality roofing material is going to need less maintenance over the years. High-grade, dimensional asphalt shingles (for example) cost more upfront but last longer and have fewer repairs (on average) over their lifespan. But whichever material you choose, new roofing is going to require less maintenance than old roofing. 2. Avoid Water Damage to Your Home’s Interior Aside from damage to the roof and roofing itself and the cost of long-term maintenance, you also have to think about avoiding water damage to your home’s interior. Interior water damage can mean warped drywall ceilings and walls, ruined hardwood flooring, destroyed electronics, soaked carpeting and couches, and more. Overall, you can easily spend hundreds to thousands of dollars repairing the interior of your home in the aftermath of a roof leak. Far better to minimize the risk of that happening by investing in brand new roofing! 3. It’s Your Chance to Improve Your Roof “Below the Shingles” Another benefit of roof replacement is that you get to open up the roof and see what’s underneath. That means that warped plywood roof deck pieces are exposed and replaced, quality underlayment can be installed, and newer, better flashing, drip edge, and adhesive ice & water protection can be laid down. A secondary water barrier and a roof deck in optimal condition will combine with your layer of roofing shingles to maximize your new roof’s performance for many years to come! 4. Increased Energy Efficiency New roofing tends to be more energy-efficient than old roofing. Remember that most of the heat escapes from your home through the roof. And your roof is also important when it comes to insulation and ventilation of the whole house below it. Pair up your new roof with better or more attic insulation, maybe a radiant barrier below the roof deck, new roof vents and fans, or even solar panels on the rooftop – and you can save a lot of money month on month going forward! 5. Liability and Home Insurance Benefits There are certain long-term benefits of roof replacement that might not immediately come to mind. One of these is the fact that new roofing is safer, less likely to cause an accident, and therefore less likely to create a liability issue. Also, homeowners insurers may not be willing to insure your roofing after it passes a certain age, passes its manufacturer’s warranty limit, or is simply in bad condition. Conversely, you may be able to get better or cheaper coverage with new roofing, depending on your insurance company’s rules on such matters. 6. Longer Durability, Less Stress! New roofing is going to last longer because it’s new but also because it may be a better-built material than what is currently on your roof. That means you won’t have to think about roof replacement again for a very long time. And it means you won’t have the constant stress of worrying about whether your roof is going to hold up against the next major Florida storm that rolls along. 7. Increased Resale Value for Your Home Another long-term benefit of roof replacement is that it greatly improves your home’s market value. It makes it faster and easier to sell your home, should you ever wish to list it, and generally gets you a better selling price for it as well.… Read the rest

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Renovating your home is both an exciting and stressful undertaking – particularly if you remain in the home throughout its transformation. Whether you’re planning a major restoration or minor remodeling, what begins as a dream design can quickly turn into a nightmare. We’ve all seen those TV shows that showcase different types of disasters as they unfold when home renovations are carried out improperly. Reno inspection will set your mind at ease Renovation problems typically stem from the use of sub-standard materials, poor workmanship or unfinished projects. To the untrained eye, it can often be difficult to know if you’re getting your money’s worth. (And the same can hold true when you’re having a new home built as well.) Our inspectors can assess a renovation job near completion to ensure everything’s being done correctly. This can save you time, money and a world of grief if your contractor isn’t completing your renovations properly. Do your homework on contractors The best way to ensure you end up with a dependable contractor – and a renovation done right – is to interview several professionals before deciding on the one who’s best suited to complete your renovations. Even when you receive a positive referral from a friend, family member or neighbour, it’s important to check references and reputation on any contractor before hiring them. Ask questions specifically related to the scope of work you’re planning to have done to ensure the contractor’s experienced in this area, as the term ‘contractor’ is really general. Every professional contractor has strengths and weaknesses, and their past customers are in the best position to highlight the pros and cons of hiring them. When checking references, be sure to ask if projects were completed on time, on budget and to each customer’s satisfaction. If there were any problems or delays, ask how the contractor handled and resolved these issues. While it’s not uncommon for problems to creep up during a reno – particularly a large one – how a contractor addresses issues can say a lot about their professionalism. It’s helpful to record all information when doing your research so you can compare contractors before deciding on who to hire. This helpful contractor interview worksheet from the Canadian Home Builders’ Association is a good guideline. Don’t pay in full until completion Like any profession, contractors can range from highly professional to completely unreliable. And, in many cases, you won’t know the difference until an experienced home inspector scrutinizes their work. So, before you make your final payment, get a renovation inspection completed to make sure everything’s up to par! Have questions about how to protect yourself during a renovation? Answers are just a call or email away.… Read the rest

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A roof replacement is the only solution for an asphalt roof at the end of its lifespan. The problem is that it’s hard to keep track of your roof’s age if you weren’t around when it was originally installed.   Unfortunately, this leads to many homeowners waiting too long for a replacement. Even worse, they only realize they need a new roof after roof leaks caused damage to their home’s interior. So, how are you supposed to know when to replace your asphalt roof to prevent leaks? For over 30 years, the team at Bill Ragan Roofing has taken pride in providing transparent and honest roofing advice. Because of this, I want to help you identify the signs that it’s time for an asphalt roof replacement. This article breaks down the following six signs you need to replace your asphalt roof: Continuous roof leaks Curling and cracked shingles Finding loose granules Vegetation growth Premature roof failure Storm damage 1. Your asphalt roof continuously leaks The first way to tell if you need to replace your asphalt roof is when it has continuous leaks, especially if it’s older. This is usually caused by improper installation or the shingles have reached their maximum lifespan. (Old 3-tab asphalt shingle roof that needs to be replaced) If your asphalt roof is 20-25 years old, it’s simply time for a replacement because the materials have maxed out. However, your asphalt roof doesn’t need to be at the end of its lifespan to experience constant leaks. This usually means there are bigger problems that can only be fixed by getting a replacement. Now, you don’t need to replace your asphalt roof for leaks caused by something as simple as nail pops or a cracked pipe boot. There are even situations where the same leak is hard to find and repair. However, you won’t know what your roof actually needs until you get a roof inspection. 2. The asphalt shingles are curling and cracking Curling and cracked shingles are indicators that your asphalt roof has reached the end of its lifespan. If they reach this point, the shingles are no longer effective and starting to deteriorate. Cracking and curling can also be a sign of trapped heat damaging the shingles caused by poor attic ventilation. An improperly ventilated attic dramatically shortens an asphalt roof’s lifespan, leading to a replacement way before you should need one. No matter the cause, once your asphalt shingles start showing this sign, you’ll need to get a replacement. 3. Finding loose granules Granules are pieces of asphalt embedded in shingles for fire resistance, color, and UV ray protection. They are crucial to the longevity of your asphalt roof, and losing them is a huge sign that you need to replace it. When it gets bad enough, you’ll find loose granules in gutters or on the ground around downspouts. Just know that losing granules is natural as your asphalt roof ages through wear and tear. However, hail damage also leads to granule loss, so you may actually have an insurance claim if you notice this sign after a big storm. But no matter the situation, finding loose granules is a huge sign that it’s time for an asphalt roof replacement. 4. Vegetation growth on the asphalt shingles Moss or other vegetation growing on your roof is a sign that your asphalt roof is getting older, and it’s time to start considering a replacement. You may not need a roof replacement immediately, but moss on your asphalt shingles damages them. So, if you have an older roof with moss or other greenery growth, you need to start budgeting for a new roof. You may also see black streaks on your asphalt roof caused by algae. Algae will grow on a 10-15-year-old roof, but it doesn’t necessarily mean it needs to be replaced. You can actually clean algae off your roof, but do your research, avoid power washing, and hire a professional roof cleaning company. 5. Your asphalt roof fails prematurely The signs we’ve already covered involve identifying an older asphalt roof that needs to be replaced. However, there are plenty of cases of asphalt roofs failing prematurely, leading to a roof replacement well before you need one. Improper roof installation and inadequate attic ventilation are two of the most common causes of premature roof failure. An improperly installed roof will never last as long as it should and comes with plenty of costly problems. If your attic isn’t properly ventilated, damage from the trapped heat and cold dramatically shorten your roof’s life. Unfortunately, both these issues are way too common in the roofing industry. Even worse, improper installation and inadequate attic ventilation void the manufacturer’s warranty on your asphalt shingles. 6. Your asphalt roof has storm damage Just like hail… Read the rest

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Though metal roofs are well-known as one of the most durable and longest-lasting roofing materials on the market, there are several distinct types of metal roofing–each with its own unique style and aesthetic value. Understanding the differences between the different types of metal roofing can be a bit of a challenge, though, since roofing terminology is often used interchangeably and references multiple types of metals. Take corrugated metal roofing, for example. Corrugated metal roofing is also known as sheet metal roofing, screw-down panel roofing, a 5v crimp or an exposed fastener roofing panel. Things get even more confusing when you consider that a corrugated metal roof can be made from several different types of metal including aluminum, copper or steel. To help you navigate roofing terminology and find the perfect metal roof for your home, we’ve put together an easy-to-digest guide that covers everything you need to know about the different types of metal roofing, including: 2 Types of Metal Roofing Fasteners Before we jump into the different types of metal roofing, let’s start with an easy question: Which of the two metal roofing styles below do you prefer? Metal roofs are firmly secured in place with fasteners. There are two styles of metal roofing fasteners to choose from: exposed fasteners or hidden fasteners. The roof on the left has visible fasteners, also known in the roofing industry as an exposed fastener metal roof. The roof on the right has hidden fasteners that are concealed underneath the panels. While both provide the durability and longevity that metal roofing is known for, they differ in aesthetics. Some types of metal roofing, such as stone-coated metal roofing, offer both exposed and hidden fastener styles allowing for a variety of design options. 3 Types of Metal Roofing Styles Metal roofing can meet the design and architectural needs of practically any style. Here are the three most common types of metal roofing styles. Corrugated Metal Roofing The word corrugated refers to something that is “shaped into wavy folds or alternating furrows and ridges.” A corrugated metal roof is just that: metal sheets that are shaped into a corrugated pattern. Most corrugated metal roofs are made from aluminum, though steel and copper are also used. Aluminum is the most popular type of corrugated roofing due to the fact that it’s less expensive than either steel or copper. While steel and copper are stronger metals, the corrugated shape strengthens the aluminum sheets and results in a durable, long-lasting and affordable roof. Corrugated metal roofs have exposed fasteners and industrial aesthetics. Standing Seam Metal Roofing Standing seam metal roofs are wide, flat and vertical panels that have a rib on each end of the panel. Hidden fasteners under the ribs of standing seam panels create an interlocking roofing system to achieve a sleek and streamlined appearance that works well for cabins and contemporary-style homes. Standing seam metal roofs are typically made with steel, but can also be made with aluminum or copper. Since there are no exposed fasteners and the panels are interlocked, standing seam roofs don’t require much maintenance and have a much less-industrial look when compared to corrugated metal roofing. Stone-Coated Metal Roofing Stone-coated metal roofing begins with sheets of steel that are then rolled into panels. The panels are then coated with stone granules to achieve the same texture, dimension and vivid colors of traditional roofing materials like asphalt shingles, clay tile and wood shake. From architectural shingles to Spanish clay tiles to rustic cedar shakes, stone-coated metal roofing provides all the benefits of metal roofing without compromising style. Stone granules provide more than just design versatility, they also: Increase Energy Efficiency: Infrared pigments in the granules can increase the natural solar reflectance of steel for superior energy efficiency, as verified by the U.S. Department of Energy. Eliminate the Need for Soundproofing: Unlike other metal roofs, stone-coated metal roofs are peacefully quiet when it rains. The stone granules create a sound-absorbing “cushion” that can eliminate the need for soundproofing materials 3 Types of Metal Roofing Materials While stone-coated metal roofing is made of steel, corrugated and standing seam metal roofs can be made of aluminum, copper or steel. Aluminum Aluminum roofs are available in standing seam, corrugated panels, rolled sheets and aluminum shingles. Copper Roofs Copper is one of the most expensive metal roofing materials and while it’s easily deformable and suitable for most roof shapes, it comes with some challenges. For instance, uncoated copper roofs may tarnish like the Statue of Liberty, so it’s important to include an anti-tarnish clear protective coating as part of a new installation to preserve the original patina. Zinc Roofs As mentioned earlier, zinc roofs haven’t gained traction in the U.S., however, they are the roof of choice for 70% of homes in Europe. One of the biggest… Read the rest

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There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing a roofing material. Metal, asphalt, and tile are all popular options, but what’s the best choice for your home? Each material has its own unique benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to weigh all of the pros and cons before making a decision. Here we will take a closer look at each option and help you decide which material is right for you First, there are some things to consider when choosing a roofing material: Your local climate The slope of the roof The style of the house Your budget The lifespan of the roofing material Ease of installation and repairability Fire resistance Material weight 1. Asphalt Shingles Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular roofing materials on the market. In fact, most homes in the United States have asphalt shingle roofs. One of the main reasons for the popularity of this roofing material is its affordability. Asphalt shingles are also relatively long-lasting and will typically reach 20 years without needing replacement. In addition, these shingles are easy to install and come in a variety of colors and styles. They are also fire resistant, relatively easy to repair if they’re ever damaged, and work with different house styles. On the downside, asphalt shingles are not as durable as some other materials, and they can be susceptible to damage from high winds or hail. 2. Metal Roofing Metal roofing is a great choice if you are looking for durability and longevity. Metal roofs can last up to 50 years with proper care, and they are resistant to wind, fire, and most types of weather damage. They are also low-maintenance and easy to install. Metal roofing is best for people who live in areas with severe weather conditions. The main downside of metal roofing is the cost. It’s one of the more expensive materials on the market, and it’s not always the most aesthetically pleasing option. In addition, metal roofs can be somewhat noisy during rain and hail storms. However, roofers can install noise-dampening materials to help mitigate this issue if you are interested in having metal roofing installed. 3. Tile Roofing Tile roofing is a popular choice for homeowners who want an attractive, long-lasting roof. Tile roofs can last up to 100 years with proper care, and they are resistant to fire, wind, and other types of weather damage. Tile roofing work with a variety of house styles. Spanish-style homes are the most common, but tile roofs can complement contemporary, ranch, and Tudor homes, among others. Tile roofs are also low maintenance. However, they can be quite expensive, and they are not always the best choice for homes in cold climates because tiles can crack in freezing temperatures. Additionally, the installation process can be complex and time-consuming. Tile roofs are also quite heavy, so your home’s structure will need to be able to support the weight. 4. Slate Roofing Slate roofs are a popular choice for homeowners looking for a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing roofing option. Slate is durable and can resist fire and extreme weather conditions. Slate is a metamorphic rock that is formed from shale. It is extremely strong and durable, which makes it an ideal material for roofing. Notably, slate roofs can last for over 100 years with proper maintenance. Slate roofs vary in colors, with the most common ones being gray, black, green, blue, purple, and red. You can also find slate roofs that have a textured or smooth surface. If you are looking for a roofing option that will improve the curb appeal of your home and last for many years, slate roofing is an excellent choice. However, slate roofing is a bit more expensive than other types of roofing. Another drawback of this material is that it is heavy and difficult to repair. 5. Wood Shingles and Shake Like all other roofing materials, wood shingles and shake have their pros and cons. The difference between standard wood shingles and shake shingles is in their appearance. Shake is roughly hewn, so it has a more rustic look. Standard wood shingles, on the other hand, are machine cut and more uniform. Wood shingles and shake are popular choices for roofing because they are beautiful and natural looking. They can also be painted or stained to match the exterior of your home. Wood shingles are very durable and can last up to 50 years with proper care and maintenance. Another advantage is that wood shingles are a good insulator, so they can help keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. The main disadvantage of wood shingles is that they are flammable. If there is a fire near your home, wood shingles can catch fire and cause serious damage to your property. They… Read the rest

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Out of the many parts of your house, the roof is one of its important features. The roof of your house and lot for sale is one of the things that protect you from the sun’s heat, high winds, strong rain, and other outdoor elements. Simply put, your house is supposed to put a good roof over your head for you to sleep in. Given this, this blog will show you what kind of roof material you can install on your house and lot for sale.   Here Are the Different Roofing Materials You Can Install in Your Home   Stone-Coated Steel Stone-coated steel roofing materials are unique for their characteristic of being able to withstand strong weather such as heavy rains, hail, and strong winds. Hence, this kind of roofing is good for areas that are prone to typhoons, freeze-thaw cycles, and the like.   Built-Up Roofing Built-up roofing material comprises a couple of layers of roofing consisting of adhesive, asphalt, tar, or felt, which is finished with aggregate and hot asphalt or tar to make the roof durable. Lasting for 20 to 30 years, the downside to built-up roofing material is that the installation process is slow and can release harmful fumes, and finding damages or leaks in the roofing is hard. Despite this, built-up roofing is commonly found on flat roofs. This type of roofing is fire-resistant and waterproof, which is why it is chosen for flat roofs.   Synthetic Composite Shingles Synthetic composite shingles are known to be one of the most accessible roofing material types for a house and lot for sale. Available in various styles, this kind of roofing material is lightweight and significantly durable to the extent that this kind of roofing material has the highest fire and impact rating. This kind of roofing material is also affordable.   Wood Roofing If you’re aiming for great aesthetics and class, wood roofing materials are a durable kind of roofing material that fosters efficiency when it comes to energy consumption. Although, this kind of roofing material is known for being one of the more costly roofing materials given the need for maintenance. Without maintenance for the wood roofing material, the roof can become degraded. Rolled Roofing Rolled roofing is one of the roofing materials that is known for being the cheapest option for a house and lot for sale. This kind of roofing material has a fast installation process, although it only lasts for around 10 years. Rolled roofing does not offer much in terms of aesthetics, hence this kind of roofing material is common roofing material for outbuildings like sheds and shops.   Clay Tiles Clay tiles are the kind of roof materials that last the longest out of any other roof materials. Although they are expensive and can end up breaking if not handled properly, clay tiles are a great option for roofing in hotter climates or in regions that have salt air. Clay tiles do not absorb a lot of moisture, which means they do not need a lot of maintenance.   Standing Seam Metal Roofing Standing seam metal roofing consists of steel roofing panels “in raised seams that interlock to keep moisture out.” Because of this, this type of roof is both fire-resistant and good for snowy regions. In addition to the roof lasting 30-50 years, this type of roofing is also recyclable.   Asphalt Shingles Asphalt shingles are easy to install, replace, and repair. Moreover, an asphalt roof or asphalt shingles are one of the more affordable types of roof material for a house and lot for sale. It is for this reason that asphalt shingles are one of the most commonly installed materials on modern houses. Although, asphalt shingles are not that durable, and once the granules on the asphalt shingles have degraded, the entire asphalt shingle roof must be replaced. Living Roof Living roofs or green roofs are different kind of roof material that is unconventional. Despite this, green roofs offer thermal insulation, growing plant life, and good rainwater absorption. A green roof is installed by first installing a waterproof membrane that has a good drainage system. Two kinds of green roofs can be installed – either extensive or intensive – where both types require maintenance. It is necessary, however, to check with your local building code to see if this kind of roof material is allowed.   Membrane Roofing Membrane roofing is one of the most common roofing materials for low-pitched or flat roofs. It is primarily made with a synthetic rubber sheet material called EPDM. A membrane roof is easy to install and repair, lightweight, and typically affordable. Although, membrane roofs are easily punctured, leading to leaks and the need for serious repair.   Concrete Tiles Concrete tiles comprise standard sand-mix concrete that is molded into… Read the rest

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If you’re building a new home or just having your roof replaced, you need to consider the different types of roofing materials available to you. Your roof is crucial to the structural integrity of your home and having to replace it is one of the biggest financial burdens a homeowner can face. In addition to understanding the different types of roofing materials, you’ll also want to evaluate roofing costs and what to expect during your roof installation. Choosing a sturdy material that adds value to your home and holds up over years of wear and tear is incredibly important. So, let’s take a look at 9 of the most popular types of roofing materials. 1. Asphalt Shingles When you think about roofing materials, asphalt shingles are most likely what immediately comes to mind. They’re the most popular and most common roofing material used in North America due to their effectiveness in all types of environments and generally low cost. While affordable, asphalt shingles don’t last nearly as long as some of the other materials on this list, needing to be replaced every 20-30 years. Although some manufacturers say with proper upkeep they’ll last 50 years. If you’re on a budget, they’re a great way to go, costing only $3.50 to $5.50 per square foot installed. To note: some high-end asphalt shingles can cost as much as $12 per square foot. 2. Metal Roofing Metal roofing is one of the most durable roofing materials you can install, lasting up to 80 years. Its durability comes with a price though, as it will cost you two to three times more than other options—$6 to $18 per square foot installed. There are a wide variety of metal roofing materials available, from the more cost-effective like galvanized steel to the pricier options like copper. One thing to keep in mind about lower-cost options is that their shortcomings are more apparent. For example, these options can be noisy under certain weather conditions and expand in the heat. The more expensive metal options bring a unique look to your home that can increase its value. But they can only take so much of a beating, and after decades of dealing with a harsh environment, they can start to take away from the look of your home. 3. Wood Shingles and Shakes Wood shingles and shakes are one of the more traditional types of roof materials around, giving your house a classic, rustic look. Wood shingles are thin, wedge-shaped slabs of wood that are produced by precise sawing, and will cost you $4.50 to $9 per square foot installed. Shakes are produced by splitting wood, and they are thicker wedges with a rougher texture, costing $6.50 to $14 per square foot installed. This type of roofing is not an option in some areas of the United States. Wood shingles or shakes aren’t allowed in Colorado, for example, because they don’t meet the fire rating requirements of the state. How long they last depend on the climate they’re installed in. In relatively dry climates you can expect wood shingles and shakes to last up to 60 years. In damper climates, you’ll only get about 20-30 years out of them. Maintaining a wooden roof is very labor and time-intensive. Without the consistent required maintenance, the shakes or shingles can become damaged and ineffective. 4. Slate Slate is one of the most beautiful and durable materials you can install on your roof. It’s waterproof, fire-resistant, fungus, and mold-resistant, and it has been known to last up to 100 years. However, it can be expensive to repair, and it can break easily when walked on or if hit by heavy hail. Slate is also expensive to install, requiring a specialist, which can be difficult to find. If you decide to install slate shingles or tiles on your roof you can expect to pay between $10 to $30 per square foot, plus installation. While expensive, it will likely be the only roofing you will ever need to install. 5. Clay Tiles Clay tiles are made from earthen clays molded into rolled or interlocking shapes and then fired for durability. They are a popular choice for hot climates like the southern coastal and desert regions. They are very durable—able to withstand high-speed winds, earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, and other extreme weather conditions. Tile is an expensive material, costing $10 to $18 per square foot installed, but it will last you upwards of 50 years! One drawback with clay tiles is that they can add a lot of weight to a home’s structure which can cause issues. Clay roofing will require extra reinforcement which could increase the cost of your roof replacement. But they are low maintenance compared to other roofing materials. 6. Concrete Tile Concrete tiles are similar to clay but are even heavier.… Read the rest

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From wood shake to asphalt shingles, roofing material is an important consideration that contributes to the overall look and style of your home. Updating your existing roof allows you to add value to your home and communicate your home’s look and feel. While roof framing, preparation and proper installation are always important, the material you choose for your roof can bring the exterior of your home to the next level. “It’s really an opportunity to upgrade your home in terms of look, style and color,” says Tom Bollnow, senior director of technical services for the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA). When choosing roofing materials, consider the following questions. How heavy is this material and will it require special framing? Is the material available in a variety of colors and styles that complement your home? Does the material meet the fire codes in your local area? Are there special installation and maintenance issues to consider? Does this material offer good performance in extreme weather conditions that are common in your area? What is the cost, life span and warranty for this product? The answers to those questions will help you determine the best choice for your home. There are lots of options for roofing materials available and here is a rundown of some of the most popular ones. Asphalt Shingles The most common residential roofing material used in the United States, asphalt shingles are popular because they are economical and easy to install. These shingles can be reinforced with fiberglass or organic materials (cellulose) without changing the appearance of the shingle. Pros: Asphalt comes in a variety of colors, is widely available and is one of the least expensive materials. Cons: Asphalt has a shorter life span than other roofing materials, doesn’t provide the insulation other materials offer, and the quality varies. House Styles: Asphalt shingles work with many architectural styles, especially traditional suburban styles. Cost and Life Span: Prices range from $70 to $120 a square and, if maintained properly, shingles will last 20 to 25 years. Clay and Concrete Tiles Clay and concrete tiles add texture and elegance to a roof. Genuine flat, ribbed or scalloped clay tiles are extremely durable but also very heavy, and must be installed by a professional. Concrete tiles are versatile and are less expensive than genuine clay, but also have a heavy weight. Pros: Clay and concrete tiles are long-lasting and non-combustible, and concrete tiles are energy efficient. Cons: Clay and concrete tiles are expensive, heavy and usually require additional framing. House Styles: Clay and concrete tiles work well with Mediterranean, Mission, Southwestern and Spanish-style homes. Cost and Life Span: Prices start around $300 to $500 a square and, if maintained properly, tiles will last around 40 to 50 years. Metal Roofing Metal roofs are resistant to extreme weather conditions. Available in two types, panels and shingles, metal roofs come in aluminum, copper, stainless steel and zinc. “They’re sleek, lightweight, long-lasting and recyclable, and something to consider if you’re interested in rainwater harvesting,” says architect Amy A. Alper. Metal Roofing: Everything You Need to Know 20 Photos Interested in a metal roof? Get the scoop on this environmentally friendly option with helpful info from the professionals. Pros: Metal roofing is durable, lasts longer than asphalt or wood, and offers high solar reflectance. Cons: Metal roofing is relatively expensive. House Styles: Metal looks great on bungalows, cabins, contemporary and cottage-style homes. Cost and Life Span: Prices usually start around $100 to $300 a square, but some styles can cost $600 to $800 a square. Metal roofing can last 40 to 75 years. Slate Offering lots of beauty and a distinctive elegant appearance, slate colors include shades of black, green, grey, red and purple. Pros: Slate is very durable, fire-resistant and a sustainable roof that can be recycled. Cons: Slate is expensive, heavy, and requires extra framing and professional installation. The quality can vary with imported slate. House Styles: Slate works well with Colonial, European and French chateau homes. Cost and Life Span: Prices start at about $600 a square and up. Slate can last more than 50 years and sometimes 100 years or more. Wood Shingles and Shake The go-to roofing choice for hundreds of years, many homeowners love the look of wood shingles and shakes and how they weather to an attractive shade of gray. Wood shakes are handmade and rougher-looking than wood shingles, which are usually cut by machine. If you live in a fire-prone area, look for Class A fire-rated wood roofing products that include shingles treated with a fire-resistant coating. Pros: Wood shingles offer a rustic look and are a natural product usually made from cedar, redwood and southern pine. Cons: Fire codes in some areas prohibit use. Wood shingles can be a concern in wet climates, and can mold,… Read the rest

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1. Metal Roofing Metal roofs aren’t just commonly found on commercial buildings. Due to their fire and weather resistance qualities, they are now becoming popular for homes. A metal roof can last up to 50 years and you can even add an additional roof on top of the metal. This lightweight material is typically between £150 and £600 per square feet, but the higher cost guarantees durability. One of the biggest benefits of metal roofs is their low maintenance so you can enjoy these roofs for many years to come without making much effort on repairs and maintenance. Pros of metal roofs: When Properly installed, a metal roof can last as long as the house Easy to install Extremely lightweight Metal reflects the sun’s heat, which helps you save energy Cons of metal roofs: It’s noisy so if you’re sensitive to loud sounds, you’ll be disturbed by the thumping noise of heavy rain 2. Steel Roofing Another popular and affordable metal roofing material is steel. There are three main types of steel roofs: galvanised, stone-coated, and galvalume steel. Galvanised steel is made from zinc, which makes the roof more corrosion resistant. Galvalume is coated with aluminium, which is also corrosion resistant. This type of steel roofing can be painted and comes in a variety of colours. The stone-coated steel is made from a combination of zinc and ceramic-coated stone granules. However, it’s not as corrosion resistant as the previous two. Pros of steel roofs: Comes in a variety of shapes, colours, and finishes Can last up to 70 years Very lightweight Can be used as a base for a second layer Cons of steel roofs: Steel dents easily It’s noisy 3. Solar Tiles Solar tiles are new to the world of roofing and are generally suitable for new-build properties or renovation homes. These tiles are just like mini solar panels that are installed on the traditional roof tiles. The biggest advantage of solar tiles is their aesthetics, but you do need to replace them every 30 years or so. Pros of solar tiles: Easier and faster to install than solar panels. It only takes 10 hours for the tiles to be installed, compared to 2-5 days for solar panels Cons of solar tiles: In order for the tiles to be effective, your roof’s slope must be the appropriate angle to the sun Solar tiles are more expensive than solar panels You’ll get less energy from solar tiles, thus making them less efficient than solar panels 4. Asphalt Shingles Asphalt shingles are the most common types of roofing materials used for homes. These economical shingles extend far beyond their low price. They provide a high level of durability and can last as long as 50 years. Since asphalt shingles are lightweight, they won’t put any extra weight on your roof or undermine the supporting structures. These shingles repel moisture and help keep condensation out of the attic. Pros of asphalt shingles: Waterproof Affordable Easy to replace the faulty shingles Available in different colours Cons of asphalt shingles: Prone to weather damage, especially in freezing temperatures or high winds 5. Rubber Slates When it comes to appearance and elegance, there is hardly any roofing material that can compete with rubber slates. This type of roofing is commonly made from recycled materials, such as rubber tyres and EPDM. Did you know that in order to make enough rubber slates for an average-size roof, it can take anywhere from 200 to 1,000 recycled tyres! These slates are extremely lightweight and can be cut into various shapes using a knife. What’s more, rubber slates can be installed in any weather condition. Pros of rubber slates: Classic appearance Cheap to buy and install The slates won’t break after walking on them Recyclable Impact resistant UV resistant High-quality slates can last between 50-150 years Different cutting shapes available from square-cut and rounded cut to the chiseled-tip cut Cons of rubber slates: Not fire resistant Have a distinctive smell, which is noticeable during installation 6. Slate Tiles Another common type of roofing material used throughout the UK is slate tiles. There are plenty of reasons why homeowners opt for slate tiles. These natural stone products are unique, aesthetically appealing, and extremely durable. In fact, slate tiles can withstand harsh weather conditions better than many of their counterparts and are typically known to last up to 150 years! These popular tiles come in various sizes and colours so you can easily match them to your home. Pros of slate roofs: Unique and attractive Very durable Rot resistant Cons of slate roofs: Expensive and difficult to install Prone to breaking 7. Green Roofs Green roofs are the latest addition to the world of roofing in the UK, but they have been popular for some time now in Scandinavian countries.… Read the rest

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Choosing a roof for your home is a huge decision. Over the years, I’ve helped many clients find the roof that works best for them. We’re lucky in our modern world that a plethora of options for roofing material exist, but with so many choices comes uncertainty and decision paralysis. What to Look for in a Roof There are numerous important factors to consider when selecting a new roof for your home, such as: Aesthetics — Will the appearance complement your home’s architecture and design? Building codes — Is the roofing allowed by your local codes? Some materials, like thatched roofs, are prohibited in certain areas. Cost — How much does the roofing cost, and does that fit your budget? Durability — How long will the roof last before needing replacement? Some roofing materials like slate or clay tiles can last 50 years or longer. Asphalt shingles typically need replacement every 15 to 30 years. Eco-friendliness — Is the roofing made from recycled material or recyclable at the end of life? Fire rating — Does the product have a Class A fire rating? This is important for homes in wildfire zones. Slope — Does your roof slope sufficiently for the roofing type? Low-slope roofs are limited to asphalt, metal, TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin), or PVC (polyvinyl chloride). Steep roofs can accommodate slate, tile, or metal roofing. Warranties — Does the manufacturer offer a long warranty (30 years or more)? Weather resistance — How well does the roof withstand the climate in your area? Metal, slate, and tile roofs do well in most climates, whereas asphalt shingles are more suited to temperate and cooler climates. Wind rating — A roofing material with a wind rating that accounts for the weather extremes in your area is important to maximizing the life of your roof.… Read the rest

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