There are many types of roofing materials available on the market today. So, what is the best roofing material? The answer to that question depends on your specific needs and preferences. Some people may prefer asphalt shingles because they are affordable and easy to install, while others may prefer metal roofing because it is long-lasting and stylish. No matter which type of roofing material you choose, be sure to work with a qualified contractor like Mesa Arizona Roofing to ensure a proper installation.
What type of roofing material should you choose for your home? There are a few factors to consider when making your decision, including your climate, the style of your home, and your budget. Here is a look at some of the most popular roofing materials.
Asphalt Roofing
Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material in the United States. They are usually easy to install, reasonably affordable, and come in various styles.
Asphalt shingles come in various colors and can be manufactured with different textures or ridges, although the most popular types are three-tab and dimensional. The cost to install asphalt shingles is between $4-8 per square foot, depending on the quality of material used and labor costs. Asphalt shingles can last from 10 to 20 years, depending on how well they are maintained after installation.
Metal Roofing
Metal is an excellent choice for roofing. It comes in various styles and types, including standing seam, panels, shakes, and shingles. Metal roofs are strong enough to be used as emergency shelters during tornadoes or hurricanes.
The cost to install metal roofing can vary depending on the type of material installed. Standing seam’s initial cost ranges from $8-12 per square foot, while more common types of metal roofing are more affordable at around $4-8 per square foot.
Slate Roofing
Slate is often used by itself or with other materials because it is very durable and attractive. Even after years of wear and tear, it does not deteriorate over time asphalt shingle roofs do.
The initial cost of installing a slate can run about $25 per square foot; however, professionals usually install it.
Wood Shingles
Wood shingles are also known as cedar or redwood shingles. These shingles are high in aesthetic value and provide insulation in the winter months. They are more expensive than other roofing materials; expect to pay around $3 per square foot for professional installation costs.
Flat Roofs
Flat roofs are another common type of roofing material because they are cheap, durable, and easy to install. However, flat roofs have less aesthetic appeal, so they may not be the best choice you want your home to have. Flat roofs are usually made of rubber or polyurethane. Rubber is slightly more expensive than polyurethane, but they are relatively cheap compared to other roofing materials. The average cost for flat roofs is around $1 per square foot.
Modified Bitumen Roofs
This type of roofing material includes one or two layers consisting of a specially-manufactured membrane with an adhesion promoter protected by mineral granules, facers, or cap sheets after installation. One advantage of this type of roofing material is its ability to allow water to permeate the surface while preventing moisture from penetrating through it simultaneously. However, modified bitumen does not provide any insulating value, so it will not protect the building from temperature extremes.
Tile Roofing
This is one of the most durable and long-lasting roofing materials on the market. However, it is expensive to install and requires a great deal of time for installation since this material must be hand-laid. The tiles can break easily when not handled properly, which may be additional costs in replacing damaged tiles.
Cedar Shake Roofing
This type of roofing material is manufactured from cedarwood. Although this product costs more than many other roofing materials, it can last for up to forty years if properly maintained and cared for. It requires little or no maintenance but needs to be stained regularly to retain its original look.
Whatever roofing material you choose to install on your home, it is essential to have the roof professionally inspected by a reputable Mesa Roofing AZ contractor. This will ensure that you know any problems before they become more significant issues. If you do find a problem with your roof, talk to an experienced contractor about having it repaired or replaced so that you can avoid any further damage or injury.