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Your roof is the first line of defense your home has against the wind, the rain, and the elements. A good roof will keep you nice and dry, but they don’t last forever. Eventually, your home will need a new roof. Do you already have your next roof material picked out?
There are many durable roofing materials out there and they all have different applications. Read on to see which type of roofing material is best for your next remodel!
In This Post:
1. Standing Seam Roofing
This is a type of metal roofing that is made of vertical panels. They have two seams per panel that stand vertically. Unlike corrugated metal roofing, standing seam roofing offers are more finished look. You install it over plywood decking and an ice-and-water shield.
One major plus of this kind of roofing is roof drainage. The seams provide channels to facilitate water runoff. (Just make sure to keep your gutters clean too!) Another advantage of standing seam roofing is that it lasts more than twice as long as shingled roofing. You can also install it over existing roofing materials.
The downside of standing seam can be the price. It is more expensive than shingle and some other materials. It can also be a bad solution for roofs that are too steep as it creates a very dangerous walking surface at too steep an angle.
2. Built-Up Roofing (BUR)
Built-up roofing is made of layers of asphalt and reinforcing fabric. Then a top layer of stone or gravel finishes the roof. This type of roofing is usually used on flat or lowly sloped roofs. BUR creates a continuous sealed surface.
BUR has a typical lifespan of 15-30 years and is better for warmer climates. It is excellent for waterproofing and protection from ultraviolet light. It is also fire resistant thanks to the top layer of gravel.
3. Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) Roofing
TPO is a single-ply sheet roofing material made from ethylene propylene rubber. This material was originally used from automobile covers and man-made pond liners. It is flexible and water resistant, making it a great material for roofing, and its use is on the rise. For more info on TPO, read more here!
The material’s flexibility gives it the ability to take the shape of any structure. It is also able to be welded, allowing for installation without any seams. TPO comes in light colors like white and gray and is the most environmentally friendly single-ply system.
4. Stone-Coated Metal Roofing
Stone-coated metal roofing is a premium option. It is made from a crushed granite coating bonded to a corrosion-resistant metal. Unlike regular shingles that lose their asphalt coating over time as water runs over it, the granite coating does not wear off over time. It is a very strong material that is highly resistant to hail, winds, and fire.
The manufacturers stand behind this material to the point of offering up to 50-year warranties. The downside to this material is that it can be expensive.
5. Slate Roofing
Slate roofing is extremely durable. It is made from natural stone and stands up to all kinds of weather. It is strong enough to hold up to high winds and falling branches.
Slate roofing is one of the most expensive options. It is very heavy as it is solid stone. It is heavy enough that most roofs will not support the weight without the need for additional supports. This adds time to the installation, as well as further cost to this roofing option.
Durable Roofing for Any Budget
There are durable roofing materials available for every budget. And now hopefully you have a little more information to help you choose the right material for you and come in under budget!
With all the money you save on your new roof, you might have enough to start on that kitchen remodel you’ve been wanting. Check out this article for a break down on what that might cost!
