Choosing the best roofing material for a building depends on the type being considered, durability, installation ease, price, and life expectancy. There is a wide variety of materials from which to choose ranging from traditional thatched roofs to slate and from asphalt shingles to metal roofing. New products are being engineered all the time to be the best choice available on the market to deliver great benefits to building owners while satisfying the demands of a modern building.

Cost alone does not have to determine that a particular material is the best option. Many may say that durability is the key factor in choosing the best substance for a building; others may say that a choice should be based on affordability, style, and color. All of these opinions are just a portion of the whole picture. Choosing the best material for a building requires a collective approach.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most popular choice currently in the market. Shingles are believed to have numerous advantages in comparison to other options. Some of the benefits of this type of covering have to do with maintenance, cost, appearance, installation, and weight. Shingles require less maintenance and can be easily repaired. They can be produced at a high volume for a lower price. They come in different colors and styles and can impart a high-priced appearance to the roof. Asphalt shingles are lightweight and comparatively easy to install. They are not recommended for hurricane-prone areas since shingles are easily blown off by high winds.

Wood Shakes

Wood shakes are a unique material that offers a natural beauty to a home. They provide attic insulation that allows air to circulate. Wood shakes are very durable, with an extremely high life expectancy and can become fire-resistant if properly treated. The largest drawback is the difficulty of the installation process.

Clay Tiles

Many people are taking advantage of clay tiles because of their quality, life-expectancy, strength, and appearance. This type of material is highly durable and requires little maintenance. It is resistant to fire and to damage caused by moths, rot and moisture. The disadvantage of this one is its heavy weight that requires a strong support structure.

Concrete Tiles

Concrete tile is derived from clay tiles that are mechanically enhanced to become strong and durable. They are purported to last a century and are highly impenetrable to the forces of nature such as hail, strong wind, extreme heat, and fire. These tiles are also sustainable because they are energy-efficient and come in different colors and styles. The drawback to this selection is weight. These tiles are very heavy; it is the equivalent in weight to three layers of asphalt shingles.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing delivers many benefits compared to other types of material. Metal offers a long lifespan, energy-efficiency, durability, fire-resistance, hail-resistance, heat-resistance, and ease of installation. It can be manufactured to look like wood shakes, shingles and clay. Various colors and styles are available for selection. The only disadvantage of using metal material is the initial cost.

For a homeowner trying to choose the best material for their particular roofing needs, it requires the ability to look at each type and weigh the pros and cons of each one. Many factors should be analyzed such as: appearance; longevity; durability; climate; maintenance needs; resistance to various elements; installation process; and price. Homeowners should carefully consider all aspects of each type of roofing material, and then select the one that is best for their building!