Different Roofing Types
It’s just a roof? Surely there aren’t that many ways to do it? You’d be surprised.
1. Solar roof tiles
Advanced solar collectors integrate seamlessly into existing shingles, generating 13 – 63 watts of energy per tile. They’re particularly good for sunny roofs in homeowners’ associations that forbid typical solar panels. While they may help offset energy costs with solar power, they also cost more than traditional solar options.
2. Asphalt shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing materials in America because they’re effective in all environmental conditions. Quality varies widely, so ask whether your shingles pass the ASTM D3161, Class F (110 mph) or ASTM D7158, Class H (150 mph) wind tests and are rated class 3 or 4 impact rating.
3. Metal roofing
Metal roofing comes in vertical panels or shingles resembling slate, tile and shake – and can last 50 – 70 years. Metal excels at sloughing off heavy snow and rain, won’t burn and resists high winds. It is lightweight and low maintenance compared to roofs of other materials. However, metal can be noisy during rainstorms.5Learn more about the pros and cons of metal roofs.
4. Stone-coated steel
Interlocking tiles mimic slate, clay or shingles and resist damage caused by heavy rains (up to 8.8 inches per hour), winds of 120 miles per hour, uplifting, hail and freeze-thaw cycles. Consequently, they’re an economical, effective choice for wet, windy regions or areas prone to wildfires.
5. Slate
Slate roofing can last more than 100 years. It won’t burn, is waterproof and resists mold and fungus. Slate is effective in wet climates but is expensive, heavy and may be easily broken when stepped on.
6. Rubber slate
Rubber shingles are a durable and cost-effective roofing option that can be made in a variety of colors and styles. They can be depended on to last 15 – 30 years, and repairs are relatively easy if issues arise any earlier. Rubber insulates well too, so some homeowners may find that a rubber roof lowers their energy costs.
7. Clay and concrete tiles
Clay and concrete roof tiles can withstand damage from tornadoes, hurricanes or winds up to 125 miles per hour and even earthquakes, according to “A Summary of Experimental Studies on Seismic Performance of Concrete and Clay Roofing Tiles” by the University of Southern California for the Tile Roofing Institute. However, they may require extra support to bear their weight and they are likely to break when walked on.
8. Eco-friendly living roofs
Green roofs are covered with plants and can improve air quality, reduce water runoff and insulate homes to reduce urban heat islands. However, they need extra structural support, a vapor barrier, thermal insulation, waterproofing, drainage, water filtration, soil, compost and plants.
9. Built-up roofing
This heavy roofing consists of layers of asphalt, tar or adhesive topped with an aggregate and is the most common style for flat roofs. As you might expect for a design used on flat roofs, built-up roofing is great for waterproofing and is also fire resistant. They can last 15 to 30 years.
Choosing the best roof for your home.
The best type of roof for you depends on your climate, budget and house. To see what’s best in your area, talk with licensed roofing contractors and look at some of the newer developments nearby to get ideas on what type of roofing material to use.
source, https://www.nationwide.com/lc/resources/home/articles/types-of-roofing
