What Are the Different Types of Roofs, Roof Designs & Roof Materials?
Trying to understand all the different roofing types, roof designs and styles, and which roofing materials work best for your home can be overwhelming. There are many varieties to pick from depending on your roof type, the look you want, and your budget. Below, we’ll explore all the different types of roofing materials, designs and styles.
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What are the different types of roofing materials?
With so many different types of roofing materials and shingles out there, it can be difficult to figure out what roofing materials work best for your project. What are the pros and cons of the different types of roofing shingles and materials?
Tile Shingles
Pros – Tile shingles are favored by those concerned with curb appeal. Homeowners with a Spanish or Mediterranean flair on their home exterior will immediately fall in love with tile shingles. They provide a unique visual appeal that has the potential to last for 80 years or longer. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a shingle that lasts longer.
Cons – The cost can be high. Your home must have sturdy roofing framing sufficient to hold the weight. Walking on the tile shingles can cause them to break. Tile shingles require a skilled professional roofer to install.
Asphalt Shingles
Pros – The asphalt shingle is the most popular type of roof shingle. It is low-cost and fully compliant with Energy Star requirements for the “cool roof” rebate. In general, roofers consider asphalt shingles to be of good quality. You can expect asphalt shingles to last between two and three decades.
Cons – Though they are somewhat thinner than other shingles, asphalt shingles are durable. If you prefer a shingle that lasts longer, consider thicker versions of the traditional asphalt shingle. Though an upgraded version of the asphalt shingle will cost more, you won’t have to shell out money for a deductible each time a massive storm tears through your town.
Wood Shingles
Pros – Wood shingles have a naturally aged appearance that many homeowners adore. These shingles also have a great curb appeal for homeowners. The lifespan of wood shingles is determined by the type of wood the homeowner selects. Redwood and cedar roof shingles can last upwards of half a century.
Cons – Wood shingles cost more than asphalt varieties, yet they provide a more attractive aesthetic. Wood shingles can be very difficult to install, and damaged shingles need to be replaced immediately to prevent further roof damage. If you aren’t pinching pennies, wood shingles are perfect for your home.
Metal Roofs
Pros – Metal roofs are ideal for homes with a steep or flat roofline. Homeowners who opt for a low-galvanized metal will find that metal roofs are extremely cost-efficient. This roof’s affordability is one of the main reasons it has become so popular. Metal roofs reflect UV rays, which adds to their energy efficiency for longer-term savings. Don’t worry about your metal roof’s lifespan. It will likely last around half a century.
Cons – A metal roof on a steeper pitch can cost more during installation. This initial cost is made up for in savings from lower energy bills. Sound can echo during a loud rainstorm, which can bother some people. Metal roofs require skilled professional installation to ensure they last.
Slate Shingles
Pros – Slate shingles are created from a sedimentary rock split into thin sheets. Slate shingles have the potential to last 75 years or longer. They are great for resisting water absorption and are not easy to damage in wind and hail storms.
Cons – Slate shingles cost more than asphalt but provide a unique appearance. You need to have sturdy roofing framing sufficient to hold the weight of a slate roof. Installation and repairs need to be made by a skilled professional.
Synthetic Rubber Slate Tiles
Pros – Synthetic rubber slate tiles have a natural appearance but are much lighter than slate tiles. They can be cut with a knife to fit more intricate roof styles. The lifespan of synthetic rubber slate is determined by the type used.
Cons – The cost of installing synthetic rubber slate tiles is still high but lower than natural slate. They are susceptible to damage from satellite dishes, walking on them, or hail. Synthetic rubber slate tiles are not as durable as slate tiles. It can be harder to find a skilled professional who can install synthetic rubber slate tiles.
Built-Up Roofing (BUR)
Pros – Built-up roofingthat of (BUR) consists of layers of asphalt, tar, or an adhesive with an aggregate. Using BUR is perfect for flat roofs that have roof-top decks or generally lots of heavy foot traffic. To get the most out of the longevity of BUR, get regular inspections and repairs (as needed) and keep debris off your roof.
Cons – The cost of BUR can be more than that of Green roofs and require more effort, including substantial structural support, waterproofing, drainage, water filtration, soil, and plants. You must have a flat roof or a very slight pitch for BUR installation. BUR can become sticky in the summer.
Green Roofs
Pros – Green roofs are extremely eco-friendly. The roof is covered in plants to help improve air quality, reduce water run-off, and help insulate homes. This helps to lower the urban heat island. Using a green roof can help reduce your energy bills all year long. With regular maintenance, a green roof can last for a long time.
Cons – The cost of installing a green roof varies by type. Green roofs require more effort, including substantial structural support, waterproofing, drainage, water filtration, soil, and plants.various Regular maintenance is a must for a healthy green roof.
Solar Tiles
Pros – Solar tiles work twofold: they help protect your roof and are an energy-producing system. Solar tiles can be installed seamlessly into your existing shingles. The addition of these tiles can help offset energy costs.
Cons – With this type of tile being newer, solar tiles still have a high cost. The price of solar tiles is lowering as they become more popular. Solar tiles require a skilled professional to ensure they are installed correctly.
If you’re unsure which roofing material will be the best for your style, location and budget, contact us for a free consultation. We replace hundreds of different roofs a year and work with the best manufacturers in the industry. We can assess your needs and provide you with various options and samples.
What Are The Different Types of Roof Designs, Roof Shapes and Roof Styles?
Knowing your roof style can help you decide what roof material or shingle works best for your home. If you are unsure about what type of roof design or style you have, we’ve outline 13 different types of roofs.
The saltbox roof is favored by those who are concerned with visual appeal. Its unique style provides some lovely eye candy for onlookers. It features a long pitch, asymmetry, and two sides with contrasting long/short lengths. Saltbox roofs are commonly featured on homes with a single story on one side and two on the opposite side. The saltbox design provides more wind resistance than a standard gable house.
Mansard roofs are constructed with four slopes. Each side of the home features two slopes. The lowest slope is steeper than the upper one. Sometimes, the upper slope cannot be seen from ground level. The roof’s unique French aesthetic permits extra living/storage space at the top portion of the house!
Gambrel roofs aren’t too much different from mansard roofs. The main differences are that the Gambrel style roofs feature upright gable ends and have Dutch roots as compared to the mansard’s French roots.
A pyramid roof is just as it sounds. It’s shaped in the mold of a pyramid! Pyramid roofs are typically installed on diminutive portions of a home. They are also commonly installed on garages, pool houses, and other small structures.
Hip roofs are not much different than pyramid roofs. Rather than creating a point at the top, each side connects at a flat section or ridge. From an architect’s point of view, the hip roof is much more pragmatic than the pyramid roof. This is the most common roof style and tends to perform better in high-wind areas.
This roof style resembles a triangle from the home’s front yard. Though there are several varieties of gabled roofs, they are especially beautiful (and functional) on homes with extra wings. This way, each section of the house can have its own cross-gabled roof for the ultimate aesthetic appeal.
Flat roofs are fairly easy to construct compared to other, more nuanced types of roofs. Flat roofs are favored for their simplicity and accessibility. A flat roof can withstand your weight if you walk on it. The only downside to this roof style is that dirt, dust, leaves, and other debris can collect on its surface more easily than other roof varieties.
Bonnet roofs aren’t much different from hip roofs and pyramid roofs. However, this roof features two sides that slope outward at angles to provide shelter for outdoor seating space. With the eaves extending beyond the house, it is easier to avoid water seeping around the flashing and down the interior walls.
A skillion roof is constructed with a single slope. It is best considered a hybrid between a triangular roof and a flat roof. Skillion roofs are often used on a single section of a house. Rainwater tends to run easily off of skillion roofs.
Sawtooth roofs have two or more parallel-pitched roofs in which the slope and vertical surfaces alternate. The exterior resembles the side view of a saw blade. The high peaks allow for vaulted ceilings or loft living spaces.
A butterfly roof is constructed of two tandem pieces that meet in the middle and are angled up in a V-shape. The way the two pieces meet in the midsection gives the effect of a butterfly’s wings in flight from the exterior. The midsection of the butterfly roof allows for rainwater to be collected, so more drainage is required down the center.
Curved roofs are not much different than skillion roofs, except the planes are curved. The curve can be designed slightly or with more of an arch shape. Curved roofs create a unique curb appeal. A lower slope is great for high-wind areas; a higher slope allows for water run-off.
The domed roof is polygonal with an inverted bowl shape. Domed roofs are not only beautiful in design but also very durable. The construction of domed roofs varies depending on the project’s complexity and can add more curb appeal to a home. They are often added to cupolas and gazebos.
What to learn more about roofs? Read about the different types of roof attic ventilation systems and their pros and cons.
How to Choose the Right Roofing Materials for Your Home
Choosing the right roofing materials for your home involves considering several crucial factors. From durability and aesthetic appeal to cost and climate suitability, every aspect plays a significant role. Here are some key considerations to help you make an informed decision:
Climate and Weather Conditions
Your area’s climate and weather conditions should heavily influence your roofing choice. For instance, a durable and wind-resistant roofing material like metal may be the best option if you live in an area with high winds and frequent storms. On the other hand, if your region experiences extreme temperatures or intense sunlight, a heat-reflective material like clay tiles can help keep your home cooler.
Material Durability
Different roofing materials offer varying levels of durability. Asphalt shingles, for example, are quite durable but might not last as long as metal or tile roofs. Metal roofs can withstand harsh weather conditions and have a longer lifespan, making them a potential long-term investment.
Aesthetic Appeal
When selecting roofing materials, aesthetic appeal is another important factor to consider. Your roof should complement the overall design and architecture of your home. For instance, traditional homes might look best with slate or wood shingles, while modern homes might benefit from sleek metal roofing. The color and texture of the roofing material can also impact the curb appeal and possibly the home’s resale value.
Budget
Your budget is crucial in deciding the type of roof you can install. While some materials, like asphalt shingles, are cost-effective, others, such as slate or metal, might require a higher initial investment but offer greater longevity and reduced maintenance costs.
Energy Efficiency
Your choice of roofing material can also affect your home’s energy efficiency. Materials with reflective properties, such as metal or certain shingles, can reduce heat absorption and lower cooling costs during the hot summer months. Additionally, some roofing options come with additional insulation, which can help maintain a comfortable indoor temperature year-round.
Choose Your Next Roof With Elevated Roofing
By taking these factors into account, you can select a roofing style and material that not only enhances your home’s beauty but also provides lasting protection and value. There’s a lot to consider when choosing the right roofing materials, so it’s essential to consult a professional roofing contractor like Elevated Roofing.
Choosing the perfect roof doesn’t end with selecting the right material; it’s also essential to consider the expertise and reputation of the roofing contractor. A professional and experienced roofing company can make a significant difference in the quality and longevity of your roof.
Elevated Roofing has the expertise and experience to guide you through this process, delivering a roof that stands the test of time. We can help you make an informed decision that meets your needs and preferences.
Contact us through our website to request a free roof inspection and to learn more about our roofing services!
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