|
What
Is the Right Roofing Material for My Home?
Your
choice of roofing material will affect both the external appearance of your home
and the comfort of your family inside the home.
Roofing materials are important in
energy conservation, comfort, and the appearance of your home. Your choice of
material for a re-roofing project or for a new roof on a home addition should
consider several factors.
The
first consideration must be the architectural style of your home. The pitch or
angle of the roof might suggest a particular type of roofing material. The style
of your home will also suggest some materials and argue against others. For
example, cedar shakes would look out of place on a southern colonial home.
The
most commonly used roof material is asphalt shingles.
Asphalt shingles can work on the
roof of many home styles. They are often chosen because they are less expensive
and they are considered the most cost-effective option.
Cedar Shakes are a good option if you are trying to create a “rustic” look.
Like asphalt shingles, cedar shakes can be expected to last up to 30 years. They
are made from wood blocks and usually are not of uniform size or thickness. They
are usually pressure-treated to make them fire resistant. They can be stained or
painted to change their appearance.
Concrete tile roofing has become increasingly popular in recent years. The
concrete tiles can look like slate, shake or terra cotta tiles. The concrete is
much more durable and can be effectively used to create a well-ventilated
roofing system that will help to prevent loss of interior conditioned air.
Several
types of metal roofing materials are also available. Metal costs more
than asphalt shingles or cedar shakes, but will last a lifetime with relatively
little maintenance. They will also reduce air conditioning costs if properly
insulated and installed. Tin is still used in many areas of the country. Copper
offers a wonderful antique appearance, but probably is unaffordable for most
people today.
A
number of new metal roofing materials are now available that will last a
lifetime, provide the insulating value of a metal roof, but look like other
materials. These roofing materials are shaped into panels, baked to various
colors, and backed with insulating fiberglass or foam in some cases. Some of
these materials are made from recycled materials, making them more
environmentally friendly. Painted aluminum and steel roofing are often made
from recycled drink cans.
To choose the right
roofing material for your home, first consider the architectural style and the
type of roofing “look” that is right for the house. Then evaluate the natural
materials and the metal simulations. You should be able to find a roofing
material that matches the style of your home, fits your budget and provides
better insulation for your home. This will make the home more attractive, more
comfortable and more energy-efficient.
If you are looking for a Los Angeles Roofing Contractor please call us today at 800.647.7663 or complete our online service request form.
| 
