Common Roof Materials Explained: Available Roofing Options


When it comes to selecting a material for your new roof, there are many different styles and materials that can be used.

Depending on your location, style of house, and what you want the finished product to look like, there is a wide variety of materials available for you to choose from. Here are some of the popular available options.

Asphalt Shingles are one of the most popular shingles available today. Their durability, ease of installation, and wide selection of colors are part of what makes these shingles so popular. There are two types of asphalt shingles: organic and fiberglass. Organic shingles are paper-based, and coated with asphalt to make them waterproof. Asphalt shingles are warrantied to last anywhere from 15-30 years.

Wood Shakes and Wood Shingles are usually made from cedar. Shakes are handmade, with a rough look while shingles are cut by a machine and have a smoother look. While wood shingles are an attractive option for a home, and can last for a long time, they also require more maintenance than other varieties do. Wood shingles should be inspected once per year and you should have a preservative reapplied every 3-5 years to keep your roof in excellent shape.

Clay Tiles are durable, insect proof, and extremely fire proof. However since they are clay, they are very heavy and require additional roof framing. Clay tiles are common in Mediterranean styled homes, and can last up to fifty years. Clay tiles are popular for their variety in colors, shapes, and textures that can match many different home styles.

Metal roofs are becoming increasingly popular. They are lightweight, low maintenance, and weather resistant. These features make metal roofs an appealing option to many people. Metal roofs can come in many different materials; among the most popular are steel, aluminum, tile, and copper. Metal roofs can last up to 50 years, and their high insulation and durability make them an energy efficient option.

For more information on roofing material, or to find out about a new roof for your home, visit Ace Roofing and Construction: www.roofingcompanyindianapolis.com.