Which Roofing Option Is Best for Your House?

Choosing a new roof for your home is an investment that calls for careful consideration. The many factors you need to consider include cost, durability, longevity, energy efficiency and sustainability of the materials available. Each of these is important, and they can affect and influence one another.

The durability of the roofing material that you choose is going to impact its longevity. Durable materials will need fewer repairs and be able to last for years without suffering damage. Additionally, the cost is often correlated to quality and energy efficiency. A cheaper roofing option with a low energy efficiency means you will pay higher electric bills.

Although choosing the right material is very important, the installation of your new roof impacts each of the other factors above. Although DIY projects are fun and cost-effective, we strongly advise that you get the services of professional metal roofers. A reputable metal roof installation company will bring their experience and expertise to your project and provide you with the highest quality materials and work.

Comparing Several Roofing Materials Used Today

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing typically lasts around 30 – 70 years. Though it can be made from various types of metals, steel is the most common and strongest. It has a higher initial cost than asphalt shingles or wood but is significantly more durable and longer-lasting.

A metal roof offers superior strength and stands up against weather conditions such as strong winds better than the alternatives. They are also very energy efficient and require little to no maintenance. Unlike other materials, metal roofs act as insulation on the building, helping keep it warmer during the cold weather and cooler during the warm weather. They also provide unmatched fire resistance and are more effective at keeping out pests.

Metal roofs are also the most eco-friendly option. They can be fully recycled at the end of their life, helping protect and preserve the environment.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles typically last 12-20 years in optimal conditions. Since they are the cheapest option, they are also the most popular. However, they lack longevity and durability. Hail or strong winds can easily damage shingles or remove them from the roof entirely. They are also not sustainable, as the materials used to make them are harmful to the environment. Since asphalt shingles are not recyclable, they are brought to a landfill after they are removed.

Though they look nice when well cared for, asphalt shingles require extensive maintenance to ensure they don’t crack, rip, or lift. It is very easy to see when the shingles have been damaged from wind, heat, or age, and it will negatively impact the curb appeal of your home.

Also Read: Your Guide to Installing a Metal Roof over Shingles

Plastic Polymer

Plastic polymer roofs are a newer option, having only been around a few decades. Because of this, there is no clear indication of how long they can last on your roof, and few companies offer it. This drives up the cost of installation. Additionally, since plastic doesn’t break down the way a natural material would, it will add to the growing issue of plastic pollution.

Though they are designed to resemble more desirable materials such as slate and wood, the visual appeal of plastic polymer roofing is lacking. There is no way to replicate the unique look and texture found in natural material, making the plastic version look out of place. They also have a lower insulation value, which means you can expect to pay more for heating and cooling.

Slate

Slate is one of the oldest roofing materials available. It looks great, offers good protection, and is environmentally friendly and sustainable. However, it does have drawbacks, with the primary concern being cost. A slate roof requires a substantial initial investment, often up to five times that of other materials.

As a unique roofing material, slate requires specialized installation. Many roofing companies may say they can do it but lack the proper training, resulting in poor work. If done incorrectly, you will experience significant problems. Additionally, it is incredibly heavy. A slate roof may weigh between 800 and 1500 pounds per 100 square feet. This may be too much weight for your home to handle and can lead to damages or even collapse.

Another significant concern with slate roofs is their durability. The slate tiles are quite fragile and easy to break or knock loose. If you require service on your roof, a lot of damage can be done by the workers walking across it. Since slate is a natural material, there is no guarantee you will be able to find a replacement tile that matches the rest of the roof, creating a noticeable and unappealing difference.

Solar Glass

Only offered by Tesla, the solar glass roof provides the advantage of solar energy. This means that it helps lower your heating and cooling bills and provides a sustainable roofing option. It also looks nice and is said to have exceptional durability. Since it is so new, there is no guarantee that this technology will be without unexpected issues or require upgrading.

In order to work properly, the solar roof must replace your existing roof. This can lead to the initial installation costing more than if you were to install solar panels over your current roof. What the solar roof can provide in energy savings is lost in fees and costs, never resulting in any savings or return on investment.

Additionally, as they are only manufactured by Tesla, there is an extended waitlist to get a solar roof. If you are on a timeline for your build or require an emergency roof replacement, your needs may be too urgent to wait. Additionally, any roofing materials you may need in the future will be Tesla-branded, driving up costs and making them harder to come by than generic items.

Why Is Metal Roofing Superior to Other Roof Materials?

Longevity

Metal roofing can last over 50 years when installed correctly and using high-quality materials.

Durability

Metal roofs can withstand strong wind gusts, are impact-resistant, and will not crack or corrode. Additionally, they have little to no maintenance requirements outside of regular cleaning and annual inspections.

Safety

Metal roofs are fire-resistant, meaning they do not ignite or feed a fire. They also are not susceptible to mold, rot, or pests.

Energy Efficiency

Metal roofs radiate solar energy, reducing your heating and cooling costs.

Environmentally Friendly

A metal roof can be fully recycled at the end of its life, unlike shingles which will end up in a landfill.

Hail Resistant

A sturdy metal roof will stay strong, unlike clay tiles and asphalt shingles that can suffer significant damage from hail.

Long-Term Beauty

The metal roofs available today are exceptionally beautiful to look at. Since they are designed to last, your home will continue to look great for generations.

Withstand High Winds

Given the durability of a metal roof and the fastening process used during installation, they are resistant to strong winds that would tear away other materials like asphalt shingles or clay tiles.

Get Long Term Protection for Your Home with Our Metal Roof

Ironclad Roofing is among the leading metal roofing manufacturers with a long reputation for quality roofs and exceptional customer service. We have installed many roofs across southern Ontario and are more than glad to help you realize the unique benefits of metal roofing. Need a custom roofing solution? Get in touch with us today for a free estimate or talk to one of our team members about your roofing needs.

Also Read:

How Much Does a Metal Roof Cost?