The roof over our heads is essential to our property’s utility, value, and aesthetic appeal. By choosing the right roofing material, we can optimize the worth of our homes for many decades. A common problem for many homeowners in the United States is choosing the right roof for their homes because of the variety of options available.

Whether you choose asphalt, metal, synthetic, or cedar shakes, there are specific characteristics and factors you should always consider before carrying out a roof installation or replacement project. In this post, we’ll explore the roofing materials available today, highlighting their positive and negative attributes to help you figure out what type of roof will work best for you.

Let’s dive right in.

Asphalt Shingles

When it comes to roofing, asphalt shingles are the most popular option in the United States. They’re affordable, durable, and will last up to 30 years.

The most common type of asphalt shingle is a 3-tab shingle, which has three layers: an underlayment with a built-in fire retardant and waterproofing. This middle layer contains granules that help prevent heat buildup and an outer layer made from asphalt cement.

Asphalt shingles come in several styles and colors, including architectural types like dimensional tabs, dimensional ridge caps, and architectural laminate. You can also choose from various colors like black, brown, gray, or even green if you want something different!

Thanks to its affordability, durability, aesthetic appeal, and installation ease, asphalt is the most popular roofing material in the United States.

Cedar Shakes

Cedar shingles are an excellent choice for homeowners looking to add character to their home’s exterior. These shingles come in different colors, so you can choose one that works best with your home’s design. Not only will they help protect your home from the elements, but they will also add charm and beauty to any home’s exterior.

Wooden shingles are highly durable and long-lasting because they consist of several layers of wood stacked together. This makes them resistant to hail damage, wind damage, and even fire hazards (depending on what type you choose).

Metal Roofing

These roofs are typically made of steel, tin, copper, or aluminum. Though they can be relatively expensive, metal roofs can be relied on to provide more than 70 years of service in harsh climatic conditions while being eco-friendly (recyclable) and requiring minimal maintenance.

Metal roofs are also fire-resistant and energy-efficient, helping to keep buildings cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. They are also highly durable and can withstand high winds and other extreme weather conditions.

Synthetic Shingle Roofs

Synthetic Shingles are available in various colors, sizes, and shapes. They’re easy to install and last for years with little or no maintenance. Some brands even come with paint-like finish options that allow you to create your custom look at home.

The most significant difference between natural and synthetic slate is its durability. Real slate has been used for centuries because it’s durable enough to withstand centuries more. However, synthetic slates are made from materials that will last much longer than their natural counterparts. While authentic slates begin to crack after about 15 years of exposure to weather conditions — whether they’re installed correctly or not — your synthetic slate shingles can last well beyond 50 years without any problems whatsoever.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right Roofing Material

These are the essential factors you need to consider when choosing between the different types of roofing material available to you:

Climate: Different materials will have different levels of resistance to weather elements such as rain, snow, heat, cold, storms, hail, and extreme weather phenomena.
Installation: You will have an easier time working with certain materials than with others. Consult an expert roofing contractor when working with heavier materials or if your roof design is complex.
Cost: The cost of a new roof is going to vary based on the size of the roof. Additionally, more expensive materials such as synthetic shingles, cedar shakes, or metal come with higher costs than asphalt shingles. The cost of installation can also be affected by the complexity of the roof. For example, a roof with multiple angles and ridges will require more labor and may increase the overall cost. Additionally, the location of the property can also affect the cost of materials and installation.
Aesthetic Appeal: Talk to your architect or trusted contractor before you decide to replace your roof or install a new one, as this will contribute significantly to the beauty of your home, which directly correlates to its value and curb appeal.

Final Thoughts

Choosing which type of roofing to install on your commercial or residential roof should be carefully taken. Your roof goes a long way in determining the quality of life you enjoy in your home, how it appears to the outside world, and its monetary value. Picking the right material, however, is only the first part. You must select the best roofing contractor to help you realize your vision.

3JM Exteriors is a leading roofing contractor with over 22 years of experience proudly serving the residents of Northern Illinois. Our trained experts are always ready to help you get the very best out of your roofing, siding, gutters, windows, and related exterior needs.

If you want your project handled with world-class expertise and dedication, schedule an inspection with 3JM Exteriors today because your home is worth it!