Your roof’s job is to protect your home and increase its longevity, but it’s also about boosting curb appeal. Choosing the right material for your property takes some research on your part. There are many roofing options to choose from, including asphalt shingle, metal, slate, tile, and cedar – each with its own benefits and drawbacks.
Whether your main concern is staying within budget or long-term durability, let’s examine these five popular roofing materials.
1. Asphalt Shingles
Best forbudget-conscious homeowners and traditional suburban homes, asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material in Michigan. Not only are they the most affordable and widely available, they come in a variety of colors and styles. Modern options can last between 20 and 30 years with proper care.
Pros:
- Easy to install and repair
- Budget-friendly
- Available in many colors and textures
Cons:
- Shorter lifespan than other materials
- Can fall victim to extreme weather over time
2. Metal Roofing
Ideal forcontemporary homes and designs, metal roofing is a great long-term investment. This energy-efficient material boasts a sleek appearance and long-term performance. Materials such as steel and aluminum are the most durable, with warranties lasting up to 50 years or more. Because metal reflects heat, your energy costs will be reduced in summer.
Pros:
- Lightweight and energy-efficient
- Long-lasting
- Fire and weather resistant
Cons:
- Higher initial cost
- May be noisier during heavy rains without proper insulation
3. Slate
Often used on historic or high-end homes, slate is one of the more luxurious roofing materials available. This natural stone roofing option is a solid long-term investment, backed by a stunning appearance and superior longevity. You can get between 75 and 100 years or more out of a slate roof. It also happens to be very heavy and may require proper structural support.
Pros:
- Top-notch durability and lifespan
- Luxurious, natural appearance
- Resistant to fire, mold, and insects
Cons:
- Expensive to install
- Heavy, often requiring structural reinforcement
4. Clay or Concrete Tile
Clay and concrete tiles, often seen on Mediterranean or Spanish-style homes, do best in sunny locales. With their distinct look and impressive strength, tiles certainly stand out from all the rest of the homes in the neighborhood. They can last 50 years or more and resist wind and pests well.
Pros:
- Low maintenance
- Long lifespan
- Upscale appearance
Cons:
- Heavy
- Expensive and labor-intensive to install
5. Cedar Shakes or Shingles
If you have a rustic home with natural surroundings, you may want to consider cedar roofing. Its offers a warm aesthetic that complements older homes or natural settings well, offering natural insulation for energy efficiency. Environmentally friendly when sustainably sourced, you can choose from cedar shakes (rough-cut) and shingles (smooth-cut).
Pros:
- Natural look
- Good insulation properties
- Biodegradable and renewable
Cons:
- Regular maintenance is necessary to prevent rot or insect damage
- Shorter lifespan unless well maintained
Choosing the right roofing material involves a lot more than just looking at your budget or considering appearance. It takes a lot of due diligence to settle on the perfect material for your home, maintenance requirements, style, and other needs.
Contact McLean Roofing and Siding Today
If you’re having trouble deciding between roofing materials, let our Troy roofing contractors help you. Contact us at (248) 524-1111 to schedule your free no-obligation estimate and consultation.