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ROOFING COMPARISONS

COMPARING ROOFING MATERIALS

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When installing a new roof on your home you can choose from many types of roofing materials. You can reroof with the same type of roofing material that you currently have or investigate alternatives. Some materials are environmentally friendly and some are long lasting or low maintenance. 

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Before making your choice, consider the life cycle cost of your roofing material. Some materials, although initially more expensive, require less maintenance and have a longer life expectancy than others. An asphalt composition roof might last 20 years, but a metal roof can last more than 50 and might be more cost-effective in the long run.
Here are some of the roofing choices available to you.

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Asphalt Shingles


Asphalt shingles are the most popular choice for roof coverings in America. The positive aspects of asphalt shingles include low installation and maintenance costs. Roofs made out of these shingles come in different grades. The better the grade, the longer the life expectancy, which can range from 15 to more than 30 years. The asphalt covering is actually a composite made up of either a fiberglass or rag mat with asphalt, which is covered with colored mineral granules. Asphalt shingles come in a variety of colors and styles. Individual shingles may be replaced if damaged. An additional advantage of asphalt shingles is that in certain circumstances, they can be installed over an existing roof of asphalt shingles, eliminating the need to remove the old roof.

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Asphalt shingle roofing advantages:

  • Inexpensive

  • Range from low-cost 3-tab shingle to architectural shingles with extra durability

  • Many colors, types, and manufacturers

  • Suitable for most residential applications

  • Easy to repair

  • Fire resistant

 

Metal Roofing


Metal roofing is fast becoming a preferred material across the country. New alloys and coatings make metal roofing panels more durable, with extended lifecycles that can exceed shingles or shakes. Innovations in metal roofing paint systems and coating technology have significantly enhanced the performance of metal roofs.  Today’s metal roofs use a coated steel substrate which virtually eliminates worries about rust and corrosion, and resist fading, chalking, and cracking under even the toughest conditions. Plus metal roofs can be architecturally dramatic and colorful.
Metal roofing advantages:

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  • Available in different looks including cedar shingles, slate, or standing seam

  • Choice of many colors

  • Light weight

  • Durable

  • Long life span (at least 50 years)

  • Low maintenance

  • Can be installed over existing roofs

  • Excellent performance in high wind, hail and rain

  • Environmentally friendly

 

Slate Roofing


This material is extremely durable and graceful, coming in a variety of looks, while offering low maintenance costs. Typical colors are grey, black and red. Like tile, slate carries the onus of extra weight and this high-quality roofing material can be expensive. However a slate roof can last over 100 years with little or no maintenance.

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Slate roof advantages:

  • Beautiful, distinctive appearance

  • Fireproof

  • Long life span

  • Low maintenance

 

Tile Roofing


Aesthetically, homeowners are drawn to the look, texture and color choices of tile. Styles include mission, rounded and flat. Priced around the same as wood, tile is made of either concrete or clay and normally lasts over 50 years. Although there’s little maintenance necessary, the underpinning for your roof must be able to handle the extra weight that tile carries and replacement costs are high.

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Tile roofing advantages:

  • Many colors and styles

  • Available in clay or cement

  • Attractive

  • Fireproof

  • Easy to maintain

  • Extremely durable when maintained


Wood Shingles & Shakes


Wood roofing, which comes in cedar, red wood and cypress, lasts longer but is more expensive than asphalt. It can last for up to thirty-five years. Many people enjoy it for the natural look it provides. Fire resistant shingles are pressure treated with preservatives are safest and last longest. With age, wood may become brittle or shrink, causing the roof covering to be compromised. Individual shingles may be replaced as needed.

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Wood roofing advantages:

  • Natural look weathering to a soft grey

  • Offers some insulation value

  • Blends in with the environment

  • Easy to repair or replace

  • Long lasting if maintained (30–50 years)

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Choosing which type of roof is right for you will depend upon numerous factors, including your budget, taste and needs.

Let Family First Construction help you choose the right roofing material that will deliver the best protection and value. 

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