Types of Roofing, and How to Choose the Best One

When it comes to investing in your home, opting for a roof replacement is one of the best moves you can make. You can even change the type of roof, but make sure it is suitable for your home, your budget, and, of course, the local climate. Roofing materials vary and include wood, metal, tiles, and asphalt, as some of the most commonly installed types.

Any alteration to your house will impact its aesthetics. When it comes to the roof, it also affects its resistance, durability against external elements, and potential energy efficiency. Read below to discover the best roofing material for your needs and the ideal roof type for your house.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt is the leading material for roofing due to its affordability, easy installation, and compatibility with most climates. Plus, one can choose from different types of asphalt shingles. The 3-tab is the most affordable one, the architectural (or dimensional) which is thicker compared to the 3-tab one, and the luxury one (created to look like slate tiles). With high durability and a variety of colors, pairing with different house styles is easy. However, some 3-tab shingles can be damaged from hail and wind and hail, plus asphalt in general has a shorter lifespan versus other roofing types.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofs are usually designed from aluminum, steel, or copper. With an expected lifespan of 80 years, metal roofs can easily handle harsh weather and high winds. The long lifespan helps against the higher cost compared to asphalt roofing ($16,500). Plus, metal roofs are usually developed from recycled content, so you can be assured that this is an environmentally friendly product. Furthermore, the rust-proof coating adds a protective feature against corroding.

When choosing a metal roof installation, you have the option to select between metal sheets (or panels) and shingles. For added convenience, you can even request the metal to be pre-treated with sealants, enhancing its longevity. However, it's important to note that one drawback of metal roofing is its potential for noise during heavy rain showers."

Cedar Wood Shingles and Shakes

When considering roofing options for your home, a wood shake roof is another excellent choice to explore. Wood roofing is not only stylish and natural but also provides a unique rustic feel and aesthetic. Available as shingles and shakes, you can select from various patterns, grains, and colors to suit your preferences. Typically crafted from cedar, this type of roofing is known for its wind and impact resistance, as well as its energy efficiency, making it an eco-friendly option.

However, it's important to keep in mind that wood shake roofs are best suited for dry climates, as they don't fare well in wet conditions. Moisture, mold, and insects can have a negative impact on their longevity. Additionally, you'll need to budget for fire retardant treatments, as they are required for safety. On average, the cost for a wood shake roof is around $20,000, and its lifespan typically spans 25 years. So, if you're looking for a roofing option that combines style, natural beauty, and eco-friendliness, consider a wood-shake roof for your home.

Tile Roofing

When it comes to the average lifespan, roof slates stand out with an impressive 100+ years of durability. Once properly installed, slate roofing will serve not only you but also your children and even your grandchildren. These roof slates are exceptionally durable and capable of withstanding heat, salt air, and even fire. Heat, salt air, even fire, the tiles will handle it all. With a variety of styles and colors, for an average cost of $21,000, you are also getting a ton of curb appeal.

But as you may notice, tiles are not the cheapest of options. Plus, due to the weight tiles bring to the house, professional installation is a must. Solid structural support is a prerequisite. Because of the nature of the materials, sharper slopes roofs should not consider this type of roofing.

Choosing the Best Roofing Material for Your Home

Knowing the different types of roofing is always a good start.But to decide on the best roof, getting advice from some roofing professionals is even better. Look for locally recognized contractors who have a track record of successful jobs and portfolios. Also, when considering the recommendations, be careful of the style, which should coordinate with the home architecture, as well as the cost, considering how prices vary significantly based on the material and roof size. The installation process is another important aspect that should not be disregarded.

All these questions and worries can be solved if you have Chicago Roofing Company on your side. As a top Chicago roofing contractor, we make sure to place customer satisfaction above everything else. Starting with detailed quotes in writing, we make sure you are provided with top-notch durable materials, timely installation, and a lifetime warranty. Changing your roof is a big investment, so why not have some experts on your side during the whole process?