After the recent surprise winter event, it’s hard to believe spring is just around the corner!
Before the calendar switches from one season to the next, you’ll want to start planning your next home improvement projects. Many homeowners put a new roof at the top of the list.
When you plan a total roof replacement, you get to choose the roof that best fits your home and style.
To make the selection process a little easier, take a quick minute and explore five different types of roofs: asphalt shingles, metal, cedar shakes, tile, and white membrane.
Each option can enhance curb appeal, minimize environmental impact, and give you a roof that outlasts most of the others in the neighborhood.
Go with the Most Popular Roofing Material
If you look around your neighborhood and notice a sea of asphalt shingles, there’s a reason. Asphalt is the most common, if not the most popular choice for roofs—all over the country.
Known as the industry standard, homeowners the main reasons homeowners (and contractors) appreciate asphalt shingles are:
- Aesthetics
- Durability
Asphalt shingles are available in either a 3-tab or architectural style. Both have a good reputation for durability and come in a wide range of colors, although the architectural shingle lasts longer.
If you’re concerned about the environment, shingles don’t have to end up in a landfill—you can recycle them.
While there’s nothing wrong with love at first sight, experts at Prosperity Roofing & Exteriors, LLC suggest looking at other popular roofing materials before you make that final decision.
The Appeal of Metal
Years ago, people installed metal roofs primarily on barns and sheds. Today, metal makes a stunning presentation for any residential roof. Choose from one of these types of metal roofs:
- Aluminum
- Copper
- Steel Tin
- Zinc
Metal roofs may not take the title of the longest-lasting roof, but they will give you 50-100 years of service. They could however compete in the most environmentally-friendly category. They’re fully recyclable!
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Tile Roofs Make a Statement
Are you looking for a beautiful yet durable roofing material? Consider tile!
You’ll see colorful tile roofs with fluted, curved, or flat shapes on homes all over the Southwest. Talk about texture!
If you want your roof to last for centuries, tile may be your solution. As a bonus, the tile manufacturing process doesn’t deplete natural resources, making it an excellent environmentally-friendly roof material.
Cedar Shakes and Shingles
Homeowners who love the rustic look should consider cedar shakes or shingles. Their exceptional beauty combined with a potential lifetime of 50 plus years makes them a contender as a favorite roofing material.
Cedar may not fare quite as well in the green category. You can recycle the material, but only as wood chips or mulch. If your manufacturer sources wood through sustainable forestry, that is a plus!
Ever Heard of White EPDM Roofing Membrane?
Roofs on homes in hot climates bear the brunt of the sun’s heat almost year-round. Low-sloped and flat roofs offer the advantage of improved cooling. They’re also ideal for membrane roofing.
Ask your contractor if they offer white EPDM. This type of roof offers superior UV and heat reflection properties, which help keep homes cool in the hot summer.
Sometimes referred to as cool roofing, white membrane roofs can help reduce your energy bills. They’re an excellent environmentally-friendly choice.
Enjoy Exploring the Different Types of Roofs?
We hope we’ve given you some food for thought. Choosing from the different types of roofs available for your home doesn’t need to stress you. They all offer unique advantages.
If you’ve enjoyed reading this post, you don’t have to leave just yet. Continue exploring our blog! You’ll find articles on an array of topics that will inspire your home improvement projects.
