Asphalt shingles are the most popular and cost-effective roofing material for most homes. Relatively lightweight, inexpensive and easy to install, they come in sheets that are layered on a roof to give the illusion that individual shingles are more expensive, such as cedar and slate, which are installed one at a time. Asphalt shingles have a lifespan of 15 to 30 years and come in many colors and styles. They are available from many of the most trusted names in the roofing industry, such as Certainteed, GAF and Owens Corning.
To further protect your roof from debris and water damage, consider adding Gutter Guards Summerville to your roofing system. Slate is one of the most durable roofing materials, providing class A fire resistance, withstanding wind and rain very well over time, and being resistant to mold and mildew. It is also one of the most labor-intensive options available, so hiring a roofing contractor is usually necessary for a successful installation. Slate roofs offer great curb appeal; many composite shingle manufacturers make products that mimic the great look of slate shingles. Hard slate usually lasts much longer than soft slate, with an average lifespan of 50 to 125 years.
Metal roofs are another option for homeowners looking to increase the aesthetic appeal of their home. Stainless steel, aluminum and zinc are the most common types of metal roofs, but copper, galvalume and tin are also options. Metal roofs offer greater longevity than other types of roofing materials, lasting between 40 and 70 years. Wooden ceilings may be a good choice for those looking to increase the aesthetic appeal of their home.
Hand-cut wooden slats provide a more rustic look while machined wooden shingles offer a more modern look. When treated, wood can provide the same resistance to wildfires and extreme conditions as many seemingly more resistant materials. Typical wooden ceilings last 20 to 40 years while teak roofs last longer, 50 to 80 years, and cedar roofs have a shorter lifespan of 30 to 50 years. Thermoplastic olefin (TPO) roofs last 20 to 30 years.
Our ranking of asphalt shingles as the best general roofing material is based on a cross-section of general utility and installation prices. Asphalt composite shingles are made from a fiberglass base covered with asphalt and mineral granules or cellulose covered with asphalt. Fiberglass asphalt shingles are lightweight but durable while organic asphalt shingles are heavier but still durable. Composite shingles are excellent at flexing and adapting to roof movements due to expansion and contraction.
Rolled roofs consist of long rolls of material impregnated with minerals and impregnated with asphalt covered with mineral granules. They offer a quick and convenient way to cover a building with a sloped roof, such as a workshop, where appearances are not important. Polymers for single-layer roofs offer another option for those looking for an affordable yet durable roofing material.
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