How To Pick The Right Roofing Material For Your Home

Four Popular Roofing Materials For North Florida Homes

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles cover nearly 80% of American homes. Asphalt shingles require minimum upkeep and are made of composite materials like fiberglass, cellulose mat, asphalt, and mineral granules. 

Pros: They are the least expensive to install, come in various colors, and, depending on the damage, can be easily repaired without requiring a total roof replacement. Today, asphalt shingles are guaranteed for 20 years, making them an excellent value for the cost. 

Cons: Asphalt shingles do not last as long as other materials are more susceptible to wind, and the quality can sometimes be questionable.

Metal Roof

Made from aluminum, copper, stainless steel, or zinc, metal roofs are starting to show up more and more across the U.S. and Northeast Florida. Metal roofing materials are lightweight, long-lasting, and reflect solar radiant heat–with some customers reporting a 25% reduction in summer energy costs. 

Pros: Metal roofs are moisture, mildew, and rust resistant, have a higher wind resistance compared to other roofing options, and require little maintenance. This material also comes in a variety of colors and is recyclable. 

Cons: While most metal roofs will cost homeowners more than other materials, copper roofing is quite expensive. Depending on your home’s location in relation to water, you may have faster degradation of materials if your metal roof is not properly installed.

Clay or Concrete Tile Shingles

https://www.yourfloridaroofer.com/tile-roofing-repair-and-replacement-in-jacksonville-fl/ Tile roofing is an elegant and aesthetic choice for many homes, especially in Northeast Florida. Clay or concrete tile shingles can be shaped like thick shingles, ribbed, scalloped, or cylindrical. Tile requires very little maintenance and adds immediate value to your home. But its unique look often comes with a steep price tag for material and installation. 

Pros: Clay tiles are wind resistant, boast a Class A Fire Rating, are energy efficient, and can last up to 80 years or more. 

Cons: The material and installation are expensive–requiring professional and experienced installers. Clay or concrete shingles are very heavy, so your roof will need additional framing, increasing the cost.

Synthetic or Composite Shingles

Technology has caught up with the roofing world. Synthetic shingles are made from rubber, plastic, or polymer, offering homeowners beauty and flexibility at affordable prices. Some are even made from recycled polymer, making them an eco-friendly option. These materials are extremely durable, lasting decades, and can hold up under harsh conditions.

Pros: Synthetic shingles are strong, come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, can  be highly wind-resistant, and are easy to install. 

Cons: Depending on the quality and product, wear and tear may be unpredictable.

Top Considerations For The Perfect Roof

While budget is always top of mind, homeowners should consider four main factors when choosing a roof. 

• Style - Before considering style, you have to consider the slope. Your roof slopes in certain areas to help the water drain properly. So you want to choose a style that is roof-pitch perfect.

• Durability - The longer your roof lasts, the more money you save. Even with less expensive materials, such as asphalt shingles, there are different levels of durability. For example, architectural shingles will last longer than 3-tab shingles.

• Location - Temperature changes, constant rain, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and salt from the ocean affect roofing materials differently. You want to choose a material that will give you the most bang for your buck, depending on where you live. 

• Warranty - Roofing materials come with a manufacturer’s warranty. But installation can make or break the integrity of your roof. Hire contractors who provide warranties on their workmanship.

Once you get a better idea of the durability, location, and style, it’s crucial to understand the accessories your roofer plans to use. The underlayment, vents, and skylights can be just as important as the roofing material that sits on top.