Pros and Cons of Some Roofing Materials to be Considered before Roof Replacement

Roof replacement is the remedy to an increasingly deteriorating roof due to aging and constant damage by climatic elements. To avoid similar issues from occurring in the future, a homeowner must carefully decide on the type of roofing material that will replace the dying roof. Knowing the advantages and disadvantages of some of the most prominent roofing materials will help in the decision-making.

Concrete Tile

While concrete tile is not as dense as common rock, its compressive strength provides efficient protection against the elements. Aside from fireproofing the roofing system, concrete tile comes in different colors and styles that provide the house a good visual appearance. However, it’s undeniable that concrete tile is heavy and expensive since it is made of chunks of hardened cement. In addition, it is suitable only for southern climates because it gets weak with cold.

Slate

Like concrete, slate is heavy and somewhat difficult to install. It is, however, visually appealing and extremely durable, with some lasting over a hundred years with proper maintenance and care. One of the major drawbacks of slate is that it easily breaks when stepped on or applied with force, and therefore installation must be done by a pro.

Metal

Metal panels or shingles are the lightest roofing materials, and their light weight makes them the easiest to install. Depending on the metal composition and maintenance, some metal roofs last up to 200 years without corrosion. However, metal roofs need to be coated with paint to protect against oxidation caused by moisture buildup.

Asphalt shingles

Many homeowners in highly industrialized states like New Jersey choose asphalt shingles for their roofs because it is inexpensive and fairly easy to install. The finish is also picturesque and is known to increase home value. A roofing contractor NJ has to offer would recommend asphalt shingles but warn the homeowner about the material’s tendency to deteriorate after several years. Because asphalt shingles come from hydrocarbons that soften when exposed to the elements, they can fade away twice as fast as other roofing materials.

Membrane

Houses with membrane roofing have an existing roof underneath the membrane, making the membrane only a secondary covering. Roofing contractors NJ recommends prefer membrane roofing when the purpose of the roof is to prevent infestation. The problem is it tends to hide the true beauty of the roof.

Learn more about the benefits and drawbacks of roof materials installed by roofing contractors in NJ by checking out About.com. This website provides exciting information about roofing and other topics you might find interesting.

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