The roof is the first line of defense against external environmental aggressions, so finding the best roofing material is very important. Choose the most cost-effective roofing material based on the environment and budget of your residential area.
Here are the questions you should consider when choosing a roofing material:
- Common different types of roofs
- The service life of different types of roofing materials
- Performance of different types of roofing materials
- Considerations for optimal roofing materials
Common different types of roofs
Asphalt shingles
Asphalt shingles are classic and popular in any roofing topic. The ones that are used the most and are the most common because they are the cheapest. Asphalt shingles have a lifespan of 15-20 years and can be shortened in harsh climatic conditions. Asphalt shingles are petroleum-based products with minimal energy efficiency, longevity, and performance. But the price is the primary consideration for most homeowners.
Clay or concrete tiles
Commonly found on the Mediterranean or Spanish-style building roofs, clay roofs are made of clay or terracotta at high temperatures. Tile roofs can also be made of concrete. They are very beautiful and have a sophisticated look. But clay tiles are more fragile and cannot be walked on the roof. Clay and concrete tiles are one of the final roofing materials and place great demands on the supporting structure.
Metal roof
There are various raw materials for metal roofs, the most common being steel and aluminum. Standing seam metal roofs are the most common type, and stone-coated steel roofs are taking more market share. Metal roofing lasts two to three times longer than traditional roofing materials and is one of the most energy-efficient, durable, and environmentally friendly roofing materials. Stone-coated metal roofing provides a beautiful appearance that perfectly replicates the look of traditional roofing materials.
Wood shingles and wood shakes
Before the advent of asphalt shingles, shingles were the most commonly used roofing material. Now, the shingles have all but disappeared from view. It requires long-term and constant maintenance to prevent rotting and falling.
The service life of different types of roofing materials
Choosing roofing materials is not the cheapest and better. In the case of asphalt shingles, even though the initial cost is lower, asphalt roofs can be replaced faster than other roofs. Frequent maintenance and replacements incur higher long-term costs in the long run.
- The service life of asphalt shingles: 15-20 years
- The lifetime of clay or concrete tile: 70 years
- The service life of metal roof: more than 50 years
- The service life of Wood roof: 15-20 years
Performance of different types of roofing materials
In addition to the durability of the material itself, the resistance to the harsh environment is also very important. For example, a home in Hawaii requires a corrosion-resistant roof, with high winds, rain, and salty moisture all a consideration. Hail-prone areas require a roof with the highest resistance to hail impact.
- Hail: The highest anti-hail impact level 4
- Fire protection: do high level 4 fire protection
- Wind resistance: Strong winds are possible in any area.
- Salt moisture: Roof rust and corrosion are the most common problems in an environment with salt moisture. Even cement can corrode.
- Ice and snow: The freezing and thawing cycle of ice and snow will cause great damage to the roofing material.
Considerations for the Best Roofing Materials
As the roofing projects are different, the prioritized functions are also different.
- Energy Efficiency: Metal roofs are one of the most energy-efficient roofing materials. Metals effectively reflect heat rather than absorb it. Asphalt roofs, on the other hand, absorb heat like a sponge and dissipate it into the interior.
- Sustainability: Metal roofs are recyclable with a recycling rate of over 95%. On the other hand, asphalt shingles are not recyclable and contribute 10 million tons of asphalt waste to landfills every year.
- Weight: Metal is the lightest roofing material for shopping malls. This means that the house does not require additional reinforcement.
- Low Maintenance: Metal roofs are known as roofs that require little maintenance. In particular, the stone coating particles can effectively resist the external environment.
Experience the benefits of stone-coated steel roofing
We are a stone-coated steel roofing manufacturer from China, with three factories and 12 production lines. As the earliest manufacturer of stone-coated steel in China, our standards and quality have always been leading. If you need high-quality products at low prices, please contact us.
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