Not long ago, homeowners were limited to choosing from asphalt shingles, slate, clay or concrete tiles as roofing options. Today, advanced roofing materials provide an unprecedented range of alternatives offering a great selection of looks. Ascension Roofing offers a few types of roofing to consider for your next new or replacement roof:
Asphalt shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing materials in the U.S., because they’re effective in all environmental conditions. Quality varies widely, so discuss with your contractor about whether they pass the tests given to withstand winds at 110 or 150 mph, and specific durability tests. Upfront costs are low, but you you’ll need to replace the shingles every 20 years or earlier. If you live in a hail prone area, consider impact resistant shingles which have a higher rating and may qualify you for a discount on your homeowner’s insurance premium.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing was originally used almost exclusively for commercial buildings, but with improvements in technology, they are now available in beautiful colors and designs and have become a darling of the roofing trade. Metal roofs come in vertical panels or shingles resembling slate, tile and shake – and last about 60 years. Metal performs excellently at sloughing off heavy snow and rain, won’t burn and is highly resistant to strong winds. It is lightweight and can be installed over existing roofs. However, metal can be noisy during rainstorms, and may dent from hail. It is more expensive than asphalt, but less than concrete tiles. Corrosiveness varies by material.
Stone-coated steel
Stone-coated steel roofs have interlocking panels that mimic slate, clay or shingles and resist damage caused by heavy rains—up to 8.8 inches per hour and winds of 120 miles per hour. They are an economical, effective choice for wet, windy regions and are great options for areas prone to wildfires. Manufacturers are so confident in their performance that stone-coated steel roofs are often warrantied for the lifetime of the house.
So you can see, there’s a lot to consider. The best type of roof for you really depends on your climate, budget and house, and it’s too important of a decision to arrive at on your own. To get a sense of what’s best in your area and for your home, talk with a licensed roofing contractor from Ascension Roofing & Siding. We are confident in our ability to provide you with a great option that fits in with your personal style and budget.
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