In the roofing industry, change is a constant. From materials used, to roofing styles and colors, the product is always evolving. If it is time to replace the existing roof, here are some of the items to consider.
Metal Panel Roof
The use of metal panels is becoming more popular in residential roofing. This isn’t the ugly corrugated roofing seen in dilapidated shacks. Modern metal roofing is constructed of erosion resisting materials such as galvanized steel, aluminum or copper. Panels are provided with a raised “rib” that adds both strength and a built in seam for connecting panels. Panels are coated with specialized coatings that create a wide variety of colors. There are several advantages to a metal panel roof. It reflects sunlight away from the home to make it more energy efficient in the summer. It is at least as easy to install as an asphalt roof. Panels are connected with special sheet metal screws along the seams. A trained roofer can install a panel roof in no time. Hiring a quality roofing company is the best bet. Finally, a metal panel roof can last 50 years or more, far longer than a standard roof.
Metal Tiles
For those with a Spanish American or colonial style home, a tile roof is an eye catcher. The drawbacks are the weight and brittleness of clay roofing tiles. The solution is metal roofing tiles. These are constructed to simulate clay tiles. Like other metal roofs, these tiles will reflect more sunlight away from the home. They require far less maintenance than clay or concrete tiles. Tiles can help accent your home in so many innumerable ways, it is not even funny.
Faux Slate
Everyone can appreciate the inherent beauty of a slate roof. But slate provides two major drawbacks. First, slate can be one of the most expensive roofing materials available. It is often out of the budget of most homeowners. Second, slate is a heavy material. Often, structural changes to the roof are necessary. Faux slate products can be made from a variety of materials, including composites, asphalt and metal. No special structural additions are needed. For those seeking the elegance of slate, composite shingles may be an option.
A Word about Color
As everyone learned in school, dark colors tend to absorb more heat than light colors. This fact is an important consideration in many types of roofs. A dark roof will absorb more heat and can add to cooling costs in the home. On the other hand, a darker roof may be more appealing in colder climates. Besides absorbing more heat in the winter, a darker roof may aid in melting snow from the roof. With metal roofing, color may not be as important due to the naturally reflective properties of metal.
You should consider all the option available within your budget before making a choice. A roof is something that should last 20 years or more, so your choice should be one made carefully. Educate yourself on the benefits of the different styles to make best choice for you and your home.
