Roofing Materials: A Comprehensive Guide

Roofing materials have come a long way since the days of older style roofs such as mud tiles and wood. Today, there is a wide range of roofing materials for homeowners to choose from, each with their own pros and cons. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most popular roofing materials, their costs, and much more.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most frequently used roofing materials today. Asphalt is not a new material, in fact, asphalt has been available since the early 20th century and became popular between the 1940’s and 1950’s. Today, they’re still the most popular roofing material in North America, with around 80% of residential homes using them.The process of making asphalt shingles include forming a base of fiberglass or felt, which is then coated with asphalt and topped with ceramic granules.

These granules are painted  in different colors and blended to have a nice, popping color, which is personalized for different options for homeowners to choose from. The popularity of asphalt shingles comes from how easy it is to install, its affordable price and wide range of colors and styles. They’re also very durable, with a lifespan of around 20 to 25 years on average.

The cost of asphalt shingles varies depending on the quality and brand, but an average roof replacement ranges from $50 to $150 per square. Popular brands include Owens Corning, CertainTeed and GAF. Look for a contractor that has plenty of expertise in roof installations.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing has been around since the mid-19th century, however, it has recently become more popular in the last 20 years. Today, it’s gaining more popularity due to its durability, energy efficiency and sleek appearance.

Metal roofing is the following most widely held material on this list. Made from steel, aluminum, copper, and zinc, it’s harder to damage metal than asphalt. Metal roofing can last up to 50 years or more, making it a great option for homeowners who do not want to worry about their roof later on. The one and done crowd prefer this type of roof.

The cost of metal roofing varies depending on the material and style, but it tends to range from $300 to $1,000 per square. Metal roofing is made by forming sheets of metal into panels or tiles and then coating them with a protective layer of paint or zinc.

Slate Roofing

Slate roofing has been around for centuries and you will most likely see them today on historic and high-end homes. Slate materials rose to prominence during the 19th century and are now considered a luxury roofing material.

Made from natural slate stone, it is then mined and cut into thin, flat tiles. Slate roofing can last up to 100 years or more, is fire-resistant and eco-friendly. Due to its relatively long lifespan, it’s not hard to see why historical buildings prefer this type of shingle.

The cost of slate roofing is the highest one on this list, with prices on average from $800 to $1,600 per square. This high price is not only because of the materials, but the cost of installation. Your average roofing company will not install slate roofing, you need someone who has special equipment and expertise for this type of installation.

Clay Tile Roofing

Clay Tile Roofing became popular in the United States in the early 20th century and is still a popular choice in year round warm states like California and Florida. Made from natural clay, it is molded into curved or flat tiles and then fired in a kiln. Clay tile roofing is known for its durability, fire-resistant and energy-efficiency.

The cost of clay tile roofing varies as well, but it generally ranges from $600 to $1,200 per square. Like slate roofing, clay tile requires a bit more skill to install, as well as specific tools and an experienced crew.

Wood Shingles and Shakes

Wood shingles and shakes are a traditional roofing material that’s made from cedar, redwood and other wood types . Wood shingles are cut from logs, while wood shakes are split from logs instead. Wood shingles are an enticing option due to their durability, eco-friendliness, and rustic, natural appearance.

The cost of wood shingles and shakes varies depending on the quality and type of wood, but it generally varies between $400 to $700 per square. Just like the other two materials above, wood shingles require a certain expertise and tools to install.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there is an impressive range of roofing materials available today, each with their characteristics. The cost of roofing materials varies depending on the quality, type, and style, but it’s essential to consider durability, energy efficiency, and of course, budget when installing a new roof.

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