When selecting roofing material for your home, it’s crucial to opt for something that offers robust protection against potential roof damage.
From classic asphalt shingles to modern metal roofs, each material comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks. We aim to break down these complexities, providing you with the insights needed to choose a roofing material that not only complements the aesthetic of your home but also stands up to the elements for years to come.
Asphalt Shingles
Life expectancy: 15 to 30 years
Asphalt shingles are the most common roof materials as they are affordable, attractive, and durable. Many homeowners are unaware asphalt shingles are an eco-friendly choice as they can be used to create pavement when recycled. Asphalt tiles look great and come in various styles and colors, making upgrading the look of your home easy.
Advantages:
- Affordable and readily available
- Low maintenance
- Suited to Chicagoland climates
- Broad range of designs and colors suitable to all home types
- Recyclable
Disadvantages:
- Some shingles are more vulnerable to winds
- Some can have a shorter lifespan
Metal Roofing
Life expectancy: Up to 80 years
Metal roofing is becoming more popular as it has a modern feel despite being a historic roofing material. Designs have come a long way since the days of sheet metal roofing with a wide variety of highly textured shingle designs ideal for a modern aesthetic. Available in metals such as aluminum and zinc, they are now also more affordable, making them a worthwhile investment lasting up to 80 years or more. They also come in a broad range of colors, with some brands offering custom-designed paint colors.
Advantages:
- Low-maintenance and durable
- Comes in looks to match slate, asphalt, or wood in your choice of shingle designs
- Wide variety of colors, often including custom options
- Recyclable
Disadvantages:
- Can be noisy in the rain without soundproofing
- Can warp or ripple if not installed properly
- Labor and repair costs tend to be higher than other roof types
Wood Roofing
Life expectancy: Up to 50 years
Wood roofing is suited to specific home designs such as Cape Cods, cottages, and Craftsmen. Although not available in color choices, they develop an attractive silver patina that lasts up to 50 years. Popular woods include cedar and redwood.
Advantages:
- Charm for added curb appeal
- Patina creates an interesting aesthetic over time
- Recyclable natural material
Disadvantages:
- Susceptible to mold, mildew, and rot
- Water damage
- Often requires chemical preservatives, making them higher maintenance
Clay Tiles
Life expectancy: Up to a century or more
Clay tiles come in various styles, including the classic Spanish and French European looks. These tiles are expensive, but they last longer than almost any other roof material. This is a very specific look not suited to all architectural styles. However, they are surprisingly durable, naturally fire-resistant, and can withstand high winds.
Advantages:
- Very attractive on the right style home
- Low maintenance
- Natural and eco-friendly
- Helps maintain comfortable interior home temperatures
Disadvantages:
- Can easily crack on impact
- Limited colors
- Quite heavy, so it might need additional roof support
- Harder to find specialized labor for installation and repairs
Slate Roofing
Life expectancy: Up to 200 years or more
Slate is highly durable and can last centuries. It is fireproof, wind resistant, and can withstand high impact better than clay. It is also very attractive, providing a high-end look for executive homes.
Advantages:
- Endless lifespan
- Low maintenance
- Highly durable
Disadvantages:
- Less color choices
- Expensive
- Quite heavy, so might need additional roof support
- Harder to find qualified labor
As you can see, there are many roofing materials available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. You are sure to find a roofing material to protect against roof damage suited to your home style and budget.
The Len Roofing & Remodeling Difference
When we say that we’re a top-quality home remodeling and roofing company that serves the North Shore and surrounding Chicagoland area, we back it up. We do more than simply cover the basics: we show up on time and nail it. For more information or to schedule a consultation, call 847-768-6000 or visit our contact page.
