Thinking of replacing your roofing? Cost is an essential factor to consider when choosing the best roofing materials to use. However, it shouldn’t drive your decision alone.
Consider how much you’ll pay for repairs over your roofing system’s lifespan before making a purchase decision.
This article will give a rundown of the different roofing materials that offer the best long-term savings for you.
Different Types of Roofing Materials
If you’re looking to save money on your home’s roofing materials, using the wrong type can cost you more in the long run. Consider the following options when deciding which roofing material is best for your project:
Metal Roofing
The most popular metal roofing material is aluminum sheeting. It’s an affordable option with a low cost per square foot compared to other metals like copper or steel. Aluminum sheets have been around for decades but recently became available in larger sizes for commercial buildings.
They offer long-term savings because of their durability, energy efficiency, and fire resistance. On top of these, metal roofings are also easy to maintain.
Clay or Concrete Tiles
Clay tiles are made of clay, sand, and water. They’re more traditional than concrete tiles but also more expensive. Concrete tiles are made of cement, sand, and water. They’re easier to install because they don’t need special tools or skills. You can use a standard hammer and nail gun to speed up the process.
Clay roofing is typically recommended for areas with little wind exposure or extremely low temperatures. They won’t break down like other materials when exposed to cold weather conditions, such as ice dams or snowfall issues.
Concrete roofs are durable and show excellent resistance to strong winds.
Lifetime Shingles
Shingles are the most popular roofing type. There are two types commonly used: three-tab and architectural shingles.
Three-tab asphalt shingles are thinner and have an attractive, uniform brick pattern. They’re easy and quick to install, lasting 7-15 years, depending on the weather conditions. This type of roof is typically the most cost-effective option as well.
Architectural asphalt shingles are durable tiles that create a multi-layered texture on your roof. They’re thicker than three-tab and require more installation, but they offer outstanding protection and can last 15 to 30 years. The higher quality material makes them slightly pricier, but the cost is worth it, given their excellent results.
Lifetime shingles, like the one offered by a roofing contractor in Burlington NJ, come with a 50-year guarantee on the entire roofing system. The long-term warranty guarantees you don’t have to worry about significant roofing repairs anytime soon.
Slate
Slate is a natural material, but it’s also one of the most expensive. Slate roofs are made from the same rock that makes up our planet’s surface. They’re heavy and durable, so you don’t have to worry about them deteriorating over time like other materials.
The fact that slate is so durable makes it an excellent choice for professional installation because you can expect your roof to last several decades without needing any maintenance.
Synthetic Roofing
Synthetic roofs are made of various materials, including asphalt and concrete. They’re durable and easy to maintain, making them an excellent choice for any home.
Synthetic roofing costs less than other types because it doesn’t require as much maintenance or repair work down the road. That’s why it’s an excellent choice if you want your house to last longer but still want better heating efficiency.
Solar Roof Tiles
Solar roof tiles are an excellent option for homeowners who want to save money on their energy bills. These solar tiles are installed over existing shingles. While they may require you to spend more on upfront costs, the long-term savings you can get are worth it.
They can reduce your electric bill by 40% to 60%. They’re made of glass which is lightweight but durable enough to withstand heavy winds.
Key Takeaways
When choosing a roofing material, choose one that will last and keep your home looking beautiful for years to come.
There are several factors to consider when looking at roofing materials: cost, lifespan and maintenance costs, energy efficiency, and warranty.
- Roof replacements can be costly, so always choose the best roofing material.
- Factor in upfront expenses, but also consider maintenance costs.
- Roofing materials that offer long-term savings are metal roofing, clay tiles, shingles, slate, synthetic roofing, and solar roof tiles.
