A roof plays an important role in protecting your family from the environment. Without a sturdy roof in place, a simple storm can be disastrous to your home. When installing a roof, one has to be understanding of all the factors that go into it, especially the materials used. Don’t just consider the traits of how they look and how they cost. We want to help you not only understand but consider how well they will perform in the area where your home is located. Some materials are made to withstand certain environmental conditions more than others. The climate of your location can take a toll on the longevity of the material that makes a roof function properly.
If you live in a rainy or considerably wet area, you might consider metal roofing materials. While metal materials may cost more than the average shingle, this type of roof can last up to 50 years, maybe more considering how well one takes care of the maintenance. Current metal materials are treated to withstand corrosion and are waterproof. A darker color can help trap in heat and help the house stay warm, this is a great possible material for rainy areas.
Wood Shingles and Shakes
If you live in a climate where you do not experience high rising temperatures or many rainy days throughout the year, you can consider using wood shingles, also known as “shake”. While a shake material can provide a beautiful curb appeal to a home, they struggle under highly intense weather conditions. Shake is a beautiful choice for a cooler, dry climate.
If you live in an area that is hotter throughout the year and experiences desert-like climates you may consider using clay roofing materials. Though they are usually more expensive than metal or shingles, they perform exceptionally well at blocking heat from entering the home. This clay material will help a home keep its interior cool.
Asphalt shingles are commonly used in many different climates. They are long-lasting, reasonably priced and beautiful. These factors make it one of the most commonly used materials in the USA. They perform well under weather conditions such as large rainstorms, snowfalls, moderate winds and even minor hail. This material struggles in extreme heat or dry climates. These conditions take a toll on the longevity of asphalt because they can cause shrinkage, cracks, and brittleness. If you choose to pick this material and live in a warm environment, stick to light shingle shades. A lighter color will help the asphalt last in the heat by reflecting off some of the light.
If you are looking for a material that is beautiful and excels in almost all climates slate is the way to go. This material performs well at cooling a home during the hotter months and protects well from rainstorms. Just remember that though slate fights the climate very well it can take a toll on your house. Slate is very heavy. A heavy snowfall can hurt your roof if your house was not reinforced to withstand the pressure of the materials and long last heavy snow.
Though all of these materials are great, you must consider the pros and cons of each. Thinking of replacing your roof? We are experts at helping you pick the perfect roofing material for your climate.
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