Arguably, the roof is a home's most important safeguard against elements, such as potential health-impacting environmental particles and harsh weather events. Therefore, the material employed to create this structure is a crucial consideration for construction professionals, and homeowners ponder when either building a home or replacing a damaged roof. Interested parties are invited to keep reading to learn more about seven of the most popularly used roofing products today.
Important Considerations
Every home or building is different. Ergo, various considerations play into which roofing material would best suit said structure. Important issues were ultimately factoring into the final decisions homeowners and contractors will render include durability, aesthetic quality, budget, exterior contours, installation process, the insulation, and the ability to endure extreme temperatures and other challenging weather conditions.
Seven Favored Roofing Materials
Many contracting professionals maintain that the following seven products are both popularly installed and worthy roof construction materials:
Metal
Industry insiders opine that few materials are more suitable for roof construction than metal. Said individuals laud this product for its significant durability. Metal can withstand inclement weather over extended durations, while still remaining in optimal condition.
Moreover, the material's thickness and strength make it a great insulator. Keeping air from entering or escaping a structure's interior conserves energy, which will keep the property owner's utility costs down.
Additionally, metal is no longer made up of pedestrian colours and designs. In recent years, the material has become available in numerous styles. Metal is not inexpensive but less costly than several other popularly employed materials.
Clay Or Concrete Tiling
When either of these products are used, roofers morph said materials into tiles, which are then shaped and individually interlocked into position.
Contractors maintain that tiling is among the most aesthetically-pleasing roof materials. Furthermore, the product is durable. Some estimates suggest properly maintained roofs can last for several centuries.
The only notable issue industry professionals raise is the product's weightiness, which might render the installation process more challenging. Concrete is less pricey than clay.
Asphalt
This product is popular for several reasons. First is its design. The material is waterproof and does not wilt when exposed to the sun's powerful ultraviolet rays. Moreover, asphalt is considered one of the easiest materials to install and is available in numerous designs and colours. Above all, the material is, arguably, the least expensive of all roof construction products.
Wood
Wood roofs exist in two separate categories, shakes and shingles. Each style is different but favoured by some for its high aesthetic value. That said, wood can prove challenging to maintain and could split or rot if not properly kept up. Wood is moderately expensive.
Slate
Slate is a natural, hard, rock-like substance employed by roofers for its strength and durability. Additionally, the material is known for producing a sleek, eye-catching design. That said, the product is one of the more pricey choices because its heavy and difficult to install.
Synthetic Materials
Over the last several years, human-made synthetic products have gained wide popularity as optimal roof construction products. Specific materials include plastic, rubber and polymer creations. Industry insiders maintain these products most often resemble wood and slate constructions and are available in a wide array of textures, designs and colours.
Synthetic products are also revered for their durability. Certain materials are fire-resistant, and most are considered easy to clean and maintain. Moreover, these materials are less pricey than several other options.
Eco-Friendly
These types of structures are made of vegetation. Studies have shown that such coverings provide significant insulation and improved aesthetics. That said, sustaining plant life will require the property owner to invest in products, such as a waterproofing membrane, an irrigation system and a root barrier. The cost of green roofs varies depending upon numerous factors.
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