Replacing an ageing or damaged roof requires everyday people to research suitable materials for their home’s roof. Residential roofing installations are largely driven by issues such as materials, longevity, and types of roof shapes. Understanding how those factors play into a new roof typically helps people in London, Ontario, and the surrounding area make informed decisions.
Types of Roofing Materials
It’s important for homeowners to understand that all residential roofing materials are not created equal. Cost, appearance, installation, and longevity can differ widely from one to another. The following discussion of routinely employed residential roofing materials may prove insightful.
- Asphalt Shingles: This type of residential roofing material ranks among the more cost-effective and flexible to install. Asphalt is also considered, perhaps, the best roofing material in terms of replacing damaged shingles after severe weather events. By that same token, they are more prone to wear, tear, and cracking than others in their class.
- Steel Roofing: Metal roofs provide lasting durability and are considered an environmentally friendly option. The increased popularity of steel is largely because they rank among the longest lasting roofing material options. The few drawbacks include denting and roof maintenance.
- Flat Roofing Materials: The materials used in flat roofs typically provide enhanced energy efficiency and longevity. These materials tend to be durable and trend toward the low end of roof maintenance.
- Cedar Roof Shingles: As a residential roofing option, homeowners usually select cedar shingles because they offer superior ambiance and curbside appeal. But compared to some other types of roofing material, cedar requires more maintenance and upkeep.
- Composite Shingles: Manufactured roof materials offer wide-reaching flexibility in terms of style, colour, and often prove cost-effective to install. Composite shingles may require a higher upfront installation cost than some others.
- Copper Roofing: The lustre of copper cannot easily be replicated by other residential roofing materials. This material reflects sunlight easily and is lighter than homeowners might imagine. Like other metal roofs, they can be a tad noisy when it rains.
- Slate Roof Tiles: Increased property value, home beautification, and longevity rank among the top benefits of slate roof tiles. Among the few drawbacks are cost and the weight of these materials.
What Roofing Material Lasts the Longest?
One of the primary factors that go into selecting residential roofing materials revolves around longevity. Homeowners who invest in new roofs need to know how long they will last when properly cleaned and maintained.
Slate shingles remain the longest lasting roofing material used for homes. These tiles can last anywhere from 80 years to hundreds, depending on the strength of the materials and conditions. Metal roofing material also delivers long-lasting benefits. When cleaned and maintained adequately, steel can last upwards of 80 years. And although asphalt shingles typically last 20 years, they remain a popular residential roofing choice because of low upfront and repair costs.
Types of Roof Shapes
Determining which residential roofing material to select will also depend on the shape of your roof. Not every material is well-suited to conform to the pitch and intricacy of certain types of roof shapes. Consider the following types of roof shapes and how they may impact your decision-making.
- Flat Roofs: A well-planned flat roof can double as an outdoor living space. The nature of flat roofs typically lends them to water leaks if not properly secured and maintained.
- Gable Roofs: The high pitch allows this type to shed water and snow easily. However, gable roofs can be vulnerable to severe wind impacts.
- Gambrel: Also known as the “barn roof” style, this shape provides increased living space inside the home. But like other relatively high-pitch roofs, it can be damaged by strong winds.
- Skillion: Commonly referred to as a “shed roof,” this type possesses excellent water runoff qualities and can withstand high winds. This type of roof lends itself to steel and other metal materials.
There are wide-reaching types of roof shapes, and each creates certain impediments and opportunities. It’s crucial to discuss which residential roofing material will maximize your investment with a professional installer.
Tips to Maintain Your Roof
Annual roof cleaning and maintenance can add years to a professionally installed residential roof. By that same token, lack of adequate roof maintenance often results in homeowners spending otherwise unnecessary money, making repairs and a premature replacement. Here are some useful tips to maintain your roof:
- Inspect roof for seasonal damage and debris
- Keep gutters clear to avoid watering backing up into soffits
- Monitor moss and other roof growths
- Check roof for ice and water accumulations
Anytime that debris, growths, or other issues arise, take prompt measures to cure emerging problems. Allowing conditions that negatively affect your roof will likely reduce its anticipated lifespan and require costly repairs.
Need Professional Guidance on Installing or Maintaining Your Home’s Roof? Give Davidoff a Call Today.
If you have an ageing roof or one that has sustained damage, selecting the best roofing material is a fundamental decision that will have a lasting impact. As experienced roofing professionals in London, Ontario, and surrounding areas, we hope this information proves useful. Contact Davidoff Roofing for your residential roofing needs.