If you’ve been trying to find a new roofing material for your home, you’ll discover that there are numerous options at your choosing. The majority of homeowners throughout the U.S. select asphalt because the material is the simplest to find and is more affordable than most others. However, each roofing material has its own set of benefits. If you take some time to compare these benefits, you may be able to identify a roofing material that works well with your home. Once selected, our roofers at Axis Roofing can install your new roof.
Metal Roofing
While metal roofing is becoming increasingly common, it’s been around as a roofing material since the 19th century. Metal shingles and sheets are often selected by homeowners because the materials are aesthetically pleasing, low maintenance, affordable, and easy to transport. The primary metals used in this type of roofing include zinc and aluminum. When properly maintained, metal roofs can last for as long as 80 years. They cost around $6-$15 per square foot.
If you opt for metal sheets as opposed to shingles, you’ll discover that these panels are connected with a seam. The metal might also be treated with sealants that add durability. Metal roofing is available in numerous colors and styles. The main benefits of choosing metal roofing for your home include:
- Lightweight construction
- Durability
- Mimics asphalt or wood
- Comes in various colors
- Recyclable
The primary drawbacks to using metal roofing include the need for soundproofing to reduce ambient noise, special labor for the installation process, and the possibility of warping because of poor installation.
If you choose standing-seam roofing, the installation process can take some time to make sure that rippling doesn’t occur and that the vertical lines are clean. Installation for these metal sheets will cost you around $9-$15 per square foot.
Shingles
Nearly 90% of residential homes throughout the U.S. consist of composite asphalt shingles, which is largely due to their durability and affordability. These shingles cost less than $6 per square foot and around $8,000 for an entire installation. The material lasts upwards of 30 years and is able to be recycled into pavement. Shingles are highly sought after by residential homeowners since they are low maintenance and work well in nearly all climates.
Manufacturers typically mix mineral, fiberglass, and asphalt composite to obtain such colors as blue, gray, red, green, or brown for the shingles. As this material becomes exposed to the sun, its color will fade. The two primary types of shingles include three-tab and architectural shingles. Keep in mind that the three-tab style is prone to damage from high winds.
Architectural asphalt shingles are single tiles that are considerably thicker than their three-tab counterparts. These shingles offer a layered and durable texture to a roof. Since architectural shingles come with a higher quality material than three-tab shingles, they are typically more expensive. The added expense will give you better durability and more weather resistance.
Three-tab shingles are relatively thin and are designed to appear like three separate shingles. With this approach, your roof can be installed at a quicker pace. You’ll also benefit from a uniform pattern that makes the shingles appear like bricks. This material is among the most affordable on the market.
Wood Roofing
Wood roofing materials are commonly paired with homes that are designed in the Craftsman, Tudor, and Cape Cod architectural styles. When first installed, the wood will have a sandy brown appearance. Over time, however, the original color fades and leaves the area with a light gray hue.
For homeowners in dry climates, wood roofing materials can last for upwards of 50 years. In wetter climates, the lifespan of this material drops because of the potential for water damage. Pine, cedar, and redwood are the three most common wood roofing materials, all three of which are able to repel insects. If you select cedar shake roofing, the price can range from $5-$7 for every square foot.
The main advantages of choosing wood for your roof include an improved curb appeal and the ability to use a natural material. However, this type of roofing comes with high maintenance requirements and is susceptible to mold, mildew, and water damage. If you live in an area where fires are common, the roof might need to be treated with chemical preservatives and fire retardants.
The two techniques that are used to shape wood roofing include shakes and shingles. Shakes are separated into wedges to provide a roof with a more rugged and natural appearance. They are more expensive than wood shingles. The shingles you can buy are sawed into a uniform width, length, and thickness to ensure clean and even lines.
Slate Roofing
Slate is a highly durable roofing material that ranges from $9-$20 for every square foot of material. It’s possible for slate to last for anywhere from 50-200 years. Along with being resistant to fire, extreme temperatures, and high winds, this material is also resistant to smaller branches and hail damage.
You can purchase a more natural type of slate or a synthetic form like fiber cement slate. Even though synthetic slate is less expensive than natural slate, it provides homeowners with similar benefits.
Along with the lengthy lifespan, the benefits of choosing this roofing material include numerous color options and low maintenance requirements. The only downsides are the high cost and the potential that additional structural support will need to be added.
Solar Shingles
Solar shingles convert sunlight into energy and can last for 20-30 years before losing efficiency. This solution is designed to provide your home with renewable energy, which makes it more expensive than other roofing materials.
Installation costs can range from $20-$25 per square foot. These costs can be offset by an increase in your home’s value by up to $15,000. Keep in mind that a moderate amount of maintenance is required. This material also needs additional structural support for wiring and weight.
Rolled Roofing
This is a highly affordable type of roofing that can be advantageous for homeowners who have a strict budget. This material doesn’t take long to install and is easy to position on a roof with a relatively low incline. Once the material has been installed onto the roof, it will be hammered into place. Along with the low cost, the main benefit of this roofing material is that it doesn’t need an underlayment like other roofing materials.
Despite the advantages that come with rolled roofing, it shouldn’t be hammered onto a flat roof. If you do so, water leaks may develop. Regardless of how well-maintained a rolled roof is, the material will likely only last for 5-10 years, which makes this a more short-term roofing solution.
Our professionals at Axis Roofing can handle all of your roofing needs. We work with every roofing type and material. When you request our roofing services for your Mesa, AZ, home, you’ll discover that we also offer comprehensive inspections and 24/7 tarp service in the event of a roofing emergency. If your home has recently been damaged by a storm and requires repairs, our team can assess the damage and help guide you through the insurance claims process. We’ll also help you determine if your roof needs to be repaired or replaced. Call Axis Roofing today to schedule your inspection or learn more about our special financing options.
