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In today’s roofing industry, there are advanced roofing materials that provide an exceptional assortment of alternatives to roofing options that have been around for a long time. Not long ago, the only roofing options consisted of asphalt shingles, slate, clay, or concrete tiles.
If you are looking to re-roof your house and do something different from what you currently have, consider one of these different types of roofing.
Solar Tile Roofing Systems
Solar tiles, or solar shingles, are an alternative to conventional solar panels that absorb sunlight and change it into energy, allowing homeowners to save money on monthly bills. They are part of the roof itself and can either integrate seamlessly into existing shingles or replace the shingles altogether. They are usually composed of TFSC, or thin-film solar cells, made from copper indium gallium selenide. This material is what allows solar tiles to be flexible and thin, as well as result in a high conversion efficiency rate. Not only are solar tiles energy-efficient, but they also provide an appealing look to a home, as well as protect the home from weather and other elements.
Asphalt Roof Shingles
Asphalt roof shingles are the most commonly used roofing materials because they are effective in all environmental conditions. They are the least expensive roofing material which makes them ideal for homeowners on a tight budget. Asphalt shingles are made of a base mat, a layer of waterproof asphalt, and a layer of ceramic granules on the top to shield the shingle from UV rays. There are two types of asphalt shingles: fiberglass and organic. Fiberglass shingles are strong, durable, and lightweight, as well as cost less and have a better fire rating. Organic shingles, on the other hand, are made up of cellulose fibers that originate from paper or wood, and are thick, durable, and flexible.
Metal Roofing Systems
Metal roofs are vertical panels or shingles that look like slate, tile, and shake, and are made using metal pieces, tiles, or panels. They are a part of the roofing envelope that is the physical separator between the inside and outside of the building. Metal roofs are great at sloughing off heavy snow and rain, resisting high winds, air, heat, and sound, and will not burn. They are lightweight and can be installed over the current roof. On the downside, they can make noise during a rainstorm and could dent from hail. There are five types of metal roofing materials:
- Copper-tremendously long-lasting, very soft with low melting temperature
- Aluminum-long-lasting and resistant to saltwater corrosion
- Zinc-tremendously long-lasting, resistant to corrosion, and lowest melting point
- Steel-three types: galvanized, galvalume, and weathering steel
- Tin-No longer commonly used
Slate Roofing Systems
Slate roofing has an extremely long lifespan of more than 100 years. It does not burn, has a low water absorption capacity, is waterproof, and resists mold, fungus, and fire. It is effective in wet climates; however, it is expensive, heavy, and could break easily if stepped on. The slate itself is mined from the Earth, making it 100 percent natural stone with no additives. It is cut into square tiles which are then installed one at a time, making the installation of a new slate roof an extremely slow process.
Clay Tile Roofing Systems
Clay tiles have the durability of withstanding damage from tornadoes, hurricanes, or winds up to 125 miles per hour. They are ideal for warm, dry climates; however, they might need extra support to bear their weight and they are likely to break when stepped on. Clay tiles are made from naturally occurring materials which are then baked into the tiles. They normally come in their natural earthy color, warranting them with the nickname of “terracotta tiles.” However, they can also be glazed in a color of the homeowner’s choice prior to being baked into shape. Clay tiles can last for at least a century, are perfect insulators against heat, and are resistant to leaks and fungi since they absorb small amounts of water that they are exposed to. Due to their heavy weight, clay tiles are a great choice for homeowners who are worried about roof tears caused by strong winds.
Rubber Membrane Roofing Systems
There are two types of rubber membrane roofing systems: ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) and thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO).
- EPDM-use recycled rubber, slate, and sawdust to create its nearly impenetrable membrane. They are guaranteed to resist the impacts of hailstorms and debris infiltration within its expected lifespan of 20-30 years. They come in rolls or sheets with different widths and are perfect for flat or low-pitched roofs. The membrane is generally glued directly onto a wood roof deck with the seams waterproofed. EPDM only comes in the color black which lacks curb appeal. However, it does offer durability and protection just as well as any other roofing material.
- TPO-made from different types of rubber that are normally a combination of polypropylene and ethylene-propylene materials. TPO is required to be installed fully adhered or mechanically attached to roofs. It does come in white, which is more curb appealing, but they also come in different colors. TPO is guaranteed to withstand harsh weather and possible hail storms and has a lifespan of 20-30 years. Its sturdy and reinforced material can protect against rainstorms, but maintenance is required from time to time.
Composite and Rubber Roofing Systems
Composite and rubber roofing systems are created from recycled materials, usually discarded tires, which makes it an environmentally friendly option. It is made up to look like other roofing styles, such as slate and asphalt shingles. Despite being much more expensive than traditional asphalt shingles, it is usually a cost-effective option. This type of roofing typically lasts more than 50 years and the cost to install it is rather modest due to the procedure being like that of traditional asphalt shingles.
When deciding which roofing option is best for your needs, it can become overwhelming with the many different options available. Tesson Roofing & Exteriors is here to help you determine which one is right all the while keeping in mind your budget. Call us today at (314) 932-1042 for a free consultation and estimate.