How To Choose The Right Roof
If a new roof is in your future, you might be considering a different type of material than you’ve had in the past. What are the different roof types? There are many options, but not every type is a good match for every house or building. If you’re not sure, call Popejoy Roofing at 217-600-2464 to get a professional opinion about the right roof for you. Or, if you already know what you want, give Popejoy a call to get started.
What Should I Consider When Choosing A Roof?
Think about several different things when determining the best roof for your home or business. Take into consideration your climate, the architectural style of your house (or other structure), your personal preferences and your budget.
What Types Of Roofs Are Most Popular?
Around the world, there are many types of roofing materials used, but not all of them are appropriate to the climate of central Illinois. You won’t see many thatched roofs here! The types of roofs most often chosen include:
- Asphalt shingles: These are far and away the most common roofing option in central Illinois. These shingles are affordable and versatile. Installation is relatively simple. Because they are so common, they come in a large variety of colors and styles. Asphalt shingles provide a high degree of protection, and you can expect them to last about 20–25 years.
- Metal roofs: Metal roofing is becoming more popular, and no wonder. It is durable and low-maintenance and newer styles are appropriate for a variety of different house styles. Best of all, you can expect a metal roof to last 50 years or more. Metal roofs are resistant to fire, hail, wind and rot. You can choose from steel, aluminum, copper and zinc. The old-style metal roofs are still available, but now some of them are made to resemble tiles or slate. One downside of metal roofs is that they cost more upfront than asphalt shingles, but they also last about twice as long.
- Tile roofing: The modern tile roof may be made of clay, concrete or a composite material. Such roofs are appreciated for their classic beauty as well as their durability and resistance to fire. They come in a wide variety of shapes and colors. A tile roof tends to complement Mediterranean or Southwestern-styled homes. The negative side of such roofs is their weight. Because the tiles are usually heavy, they may require additional structural support. With new construction, the design can account for this. However, if you’re seeking to add tile to an existing house, you’ll need to consult a professional as to whether your existing structure can handle the weight of a tile roof.
- Wood shingle roofing: Wood roofs are beautiful and natural. They’re a popular choice for cabins and some historic homes. However, they are not suitable for any structure where wildfires are a risk. Wooden roofs are surprisingly durable and provide excellent insulation. Be aware, however, that wooden roofs require maintenance to avoid rot, mold or infestation by termites and other insects.
- Slate roofing: Most people agree that a slate roof is one of the most beautiful options. Few other materials can match slate for its beauty, durability and longevity. Like tile, slate roofs are also highly resistant to fire, wind and moisture. These roofs can last for more than 100 years and are a natural choice for historic homes and upscale structures. However, slate roofing is quite expensive, heavy and more complicated to install than other options.
Flat Roofs: A Special Option
A flat roof suits some contemporary houses quite well. More commonly, you see these roofs used on commercial structures. Such roofs offer many possibilities a pitched roof does not, such as rooftop gardens and space for HVAC equipment. However, flat roofs do not drain as well and are inherently more likely to leak. They must be properly designed and constructed with suitable materials by experienced roofers.
Do You Still Have Questions? Popejoy Has Answers!
What are the different roof types? In the end, you can make the best choice in consultation with a roofing professional. If you need guidance in navigating the roofing decision-making process, Popejoy Roofing can help. Call the experts at Popejoy at 217-600-2464.