The Pros and Cons of Different Roofing Materials – Family Roofing

Posted on by David Reid

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The Pros and Cons of Different Roofing Materials

While only a couple of roofing options available a few decades ago, now homeowners can pick from a variety of materials, styles, and colors.  This allows people to select the one that suits their home’s needs as well as their own personal tastes.

But how do you know which roofing material is right for you?

Pluses, Minuses of Roofing Material Options

Here is a breakdown of some of the benefits and disadvantages of each type:

Asphalt shingles
Pros: easy installation, feasible for most types of homes, resistant to fire, simple to repair, many colors available, relatively inexpensive
Cons: Life expectancy of just 15 to 30 years, relatively high maintenance, not eco-friendly

Wood shingles
Pros: long lifespan, simple to repair or replace, provides excellent insulation, has a natural look
Cons: difficult to install, higher flammability, less durable, relatively high maintenance

Metal
Pros: can be laid over existing roof, lighter weight, very durable, low maintenance, fire retardant, energy-efficient, many styles and colors available, recyclable
Cons: difficult to install, may require painting periodically, expensive

Clay tile
Pros: long lifespan, low maintenance, not combustible, many colors available, has an attractive look
Cons: difficult to install, very heavy, colors might fade, tiles may break when walking on roof, expensive

Slate tile
Pros: very long lifespan, low maintenance, not combustible, has a beautiful look
Cons: Very heavy, expensive

Concrete tile
Pros: low maintenance, very durable, relatively lighter weight, many colors and styles available
Cons: Expensive

Spanish tile
Pros: lifespan of up to 70 years, not combustible, provides excellent insulation, has an upscale look
Cons: Very heavy, expensive

Explore Your Options

Don’t be afraid to get advice from multiple roofing companies.  That way, you’re more likely to get a better feel for what’s right for your home, rather than being talked into a specific material just because the roofer offers it.