You may not have thought much about roofing materials in the past, but when it is time to have your roof repaired, or a new one installed it pays to understand the different types of roofing materials available.
There are several types of roof materials, and each has its benefits. Knowing the differences between each of the materials is the best way to understand which one will suit the needs of your home and your budget.
The type of roofing materials that you choose will depend on the area that you live in. Selecting a roofing material best suited to your climate is a vital factor that dictates how long your roof could last. Roofs in the Pacific Northwest need to withstand the area’s rainy conditions which can cause issues such as moss growth. Here are the most popular roofing materials used on homes and buildings in the Pacific Northwest:
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are one of the most common roofing materials used in the Pacific Northwest. Using Asphalt Shingles for your roof has many benefits, and is the most cost-effective material to use for a roof installation.
There are two main types of asphalt shingles available; asphalt composition shingles and asphalt dimensional shingles. Asphalt dimensional shingles are the thicker of the two types of shingle and can have a longer lifespan than asphalt composition shingles. Asphalt shingle is coated in minerals to help protect it against the weather, which is especially helpful in areas such as the Pacific Northwest that experience heavy rainfall.
Cedar Shakes
Cedar shakes are a popular choice of roofing material for homeowners wanting a good-looking roof. The natural beauty of wood makes cedar shakes an attractive option, but cedar shakes roofing can be costly. Despite being more expensive, cedar shakes remain a popular choice of roofing material and appeal to anyone wanting a long-lasting, environmentally-friendly roof.
Roof Tiles
Roof tiles are a traditional choice of roofing material, but due to their cost, they are used less nowadays, with more homeowners opting for asphalt shingles instead. Roof tiles are probably the longest-lasting roofing material, but are also incredibly heavy and can get broken easily during installation. Tiled roofs can become damaged during storms if the tiles slip off and break on the ground below.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing can be expensive, but it is lightweight and long-lasting. This makes it a popular choice for anyone that wants a roof that will stand the test of time and requires minimal maintenance. Providing high-quality materials are used, and the roof is installed correctly, metal roofing should last up to fifty years with very little maintenance. Thanks to the water-resistant qualities of metal roofing, it is a practical and common choice of roof in the Pacific Northwest.
