Each year, millions of roofs get installed onto homes in the United States. Most homeowners are interested in purchasing a roofing material that is durable and long-lasting. This can be especially true for those that own home is the northeast in cities like Vancouver. While the question of which roofing material is the best is valid, there is not a clear winner. However, each material has its own set of unique proprieties. Some roof materials are built to last for more than 150 years and others may only last for 15. There is certainly a disparity in the expected lifespan which correlates with a big difference in price tag and maintenance required. Learn more about the difference in the most popular roofing materials and expected lifespans below.
Comparison of Most Common Roofing Materials
There is not one roofing material that is the best for every situation. In fact, the best roofing material for your home will depend on the climate that you live in, the type of roof that you have and your budget. Listed below are some of the more popular roofing materials and a few facts about each.
- Metal: Metal roofs come in many forms. They can be made of steel, copper, aluminum, etc. What they typically have in common is that they can withstand most inclimate weather and are rather easy to upkeep. Some metal roofs are prone to rusting and denting during hailstorms. However, they can last for 25 – 40 years with good maintenance.
- Asphalt Shingles: Asphalt shingles are relatively inexpensive and one of the most popular types of roofing material due to their versatility of design. You can expect asphalt shingles to last 20 – 25 years. They are durable but are more susceptible to damage than metal roofs.
- Slate: Slate roofs are considered the cream of the crop with regard to roofing materials. In some cases, they can last more than 100 years and are incredibly durable. However, they are one of the most expensive types of roofing material. Furthermore, they require skilled installation. Any mistakes could result in cracks.
- Wood Shake Shingles: Wood shake shingles are not as popular as they used to be. This is because they require a lot of upkeep, are not fire-resistant, and are not as durable as the aforementioned materials. However, they are environmentally friendly and relatively inexpensive. You can expect wood shake shingles to last approximately 10 – 15 years.
Maintaining Your Roof
No matter the type of roofing material that you choose, it is important to keep up a regular maintenance schedule. In addition, keep an eye out for potential hazards to your roof like hanging tree branches, pooling water, broken gutters, animal nests, etc. Choosing the right material is half of the battle, the other half lies in ensuring that it is properly maintained.
The Importance of a Good Roofing Contractor
Before you make your choice in roofing material, it is imperative that you make the right choice in a roofing contractor. The experts at https://roofingcompanyvancouver.net/ recommend that you fully vet each potential contractor and ensure that they are highly rated and can provide you with recent and relevant references. Your choice of roofing contractor can be the difference in your roof outperforming its life expectancy and needing to be replaced years earlier.
