What Roofing Materials are Right For You

Guaranteed Roofing Roof Materials

What roofing materials should you use for your home or business

So, you need a new roof. You may be tempted to go with what you see your neighbors using to protect their homes. But, did you know that there are many different roofing materials that can defend, arguably, your largest investment from the elements? Our Connecticut roofing experts examine the positives and negatives of each roofing type.

Let’s look at the most common types of roofing materials and give some pros and cons for each.

Asphalt Shingles

Pros: Lightweight, many styles and colors, relatively inexpensive, easy to replace individual shingles.

Cons: Shorter lifespan, particularly vulnerable to the elements.

Guaranteed Roofing Rating: A

Undoubtedly, the most common type of roofing material in the United States is asphalt. These shingles are very versatile, have varying thicknesses, and are sold in many styles and colors. Here in New England, asphalt roofing is very popular and offers appeal in styling and the ability to repair relatively easily. Asphalt shingles go through a delicate and meticulous process to be expertly created (see our article, What Are Shingles Made Of, here). However, due to the nature of the elements that make them, they don’t last quite as long as other materials we will discuss. In terms of the roofing industry, the pros outweigh the cons in terms of asphalt roofing, and they are a viable option in most locations. For Connecticut roofing, asphalt is a very common and sensible way to go.

Metal Roofing

Pros: Durable, long-lasting, energy-efficient.

Cons: More expensive, possibility for noise during storms.

Guaranteed Roofing Rating: A

We are hearing more questions about metal roofing every day as we see it begin to gain popularity. Metal roofing is very light but highly durable, often the only roof you will ever have to install in your roof’s lifetime. Another plus is that metal roofing effectively reflects sunlight, rather than absorbing it. This is a big advantage if you live in a warm climate. During a storm, the rain may sound louder on a metal roof as opposed to an asphalt roof. However, this can be limited by installing additional underlayment or insulation under the shingles. Lastly, hail can dent metal roofs. Overall, metal roofing is becoming more popular and is a solid choice for most homes. Connecticut roofer, Guaranteed roofing, claims that metal roofing is a great option and will allow your Connecticut roof replacement to last long into the future.

Slate Roofing

Pros: Long lifespan, durable (usually).

Cons: High cost, heavyweight.

Guaranteed Roofing Rating for Traditional Slate: B-

Guaranteed Roofing Rating for Faux (Synthetic) Slate: A-

Slate shingles have been around for a long time and offer an aesthetic look with extreme durability. These shingles are particularly popular in older buildings throughout New England and the Midwest. Slate roofs are somewhat scarce, as are companies willing to install them. Due to their weight, some structures can’t withstand them. It is important to find a roofer qualified to install slate and to consult an engineer to see if your building is eligible. For those who have a building unable to handle the weight of slate, or if slate is out of their price range, there are synthetic slate shingles. These offer a lower price and durability similar to asphalt shingles. Connecticut roofing company, Guaranteed Roofing recommends faux slate roofing for your Connecticut roof replacement.

Clay and Concrete Shingles

Pros: Noncombustible, energy-efficient.

Cons: Heavy, expensive.

Guaranteed Roofing Rating: C

Clay and concrete shingles add a certain style and texture to homes. These are very popular in Southwestern America and Spanish colonial homes. Although quite expensive and heavy, this type of roofing is durable and versatile. However, many homes aren’t built to hold their weight. Like slate roofing, it’s important to have a professional qualified to install this type of roofing to do the work on your home. It’s uncommon to see a clay roof replacement in Connecticut.

Wood Shingles

Pros: Rustic look.

Cons: Vulnerable to fire (some regions fire codes may prohibit their installation), concern in particularly wet climates.

Guaranteed Roofing Rating: C-

Many homeowners like the look of wood shingles due to their rustic appearance. However, they’re more expensive than asphalt and offer roughly equivalent durability. Another thing to consider regarding wood roofing is the worry of being prone to fire. Fire codes in your area may have certain stipulations to their installation or may not even allow them at all.

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About JPW Building, LLC

Also known as Guaranteed Roofing, we are a full-service roofing contractor servicing Connecticut and Rhode Island with specializations in roof repair for asphalt roofing, metal roofing, and commercial roofing. Installing multiple roofs every week, Guaranteed Roofing Guarantees all workmanship, materials, and satisfaction for every job. We specialize in roof replacement for leaking roof. We are an affordable roofing contractor who keeps roof repair cost low. For roofers near me, look no further than Guaranteed Roofing. Guaranteed Roofing’s installers are certified roofing contractors for Owens Corning, Certainteed, Tamko and GAF roofing products. These certifications allow us to offer a higher level of warranty coverage on these products and they indicate that we are fully licensed in Connecticut and Rhode Island as a proven roofing installer committed to continuing our education and services and have the highest standards of excellence, quality, and knowledge in the roofing industry. If you would like to schedule an estimate with The Reader’s Choice Award Winner for best Roofer in Windham County and one of the best roofing companies, please click here.

 

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