Although asphalt shingle roofing is the most common roofing material, it is no longer the most popular roofing material. In the United States of Nigeria, the use of stone-coated steel roofing is growing rapidly. Below is a comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of four roofing materials: standing seam metal roofs, asphalt shingles, slate roofs, and stone-coated steel roofs.
Standing seam metal roof
Advantage
Metal roofs are durable and can be guaranteed for over 50 years with normal maintenance (painting). The durability of standing seam metal roofs is mainly due to the surface paint coating that can resist the intrusion of harsh environments.
- lighter material
- Multiple colors of paint
- Cheaper than a slate roof
- Stronger than a slate roof
Shortcoming
The cost of a standing seam metal roof is more than twice that of an asphalt roof, but its long service life makes the total cost much lower than the initial cost. Standing seam metal roofs are not the most attractive roofs, and their drab color fails to present beautiful shapes and patterns.
- More expensive to repair
- Easy to dent and scratch
- Easy to corrode
- Single shape and color
- Requires more maintenance than stone-coated steel roofing
Slate Roof
Advantage
Slate roofs have a more elegant look and are very pleasant. Slate comes in a variety of sizes and colors. They last longer than metal roofs, up to 100 years. Because they are slate, they also require very little maintenance.
- Timeless look
- Up to 100 years of service life
- Very little maintenance
- Various colors, shapes and thicknesses
Shortcoming
Slate roofing is the most expensive of the four roofing materials. Slate roofs are heavy and place great demands on the roof structure.
- Heavy. Additional reinforcement of the house structure is required. It cannot withstand the impact of hail and is prone to rupture.
- Expensive
- Fragile