There may come a day when you need to fully replace the roof of your home. Many damaged roofs are better off being completely replaced than simply patching the bad areas. When it comes time to installing a new roof, the type of roof you choose will depend on many factors. What materials you want to use and what’s best for your location all come into play. Installing a new roof is a perfect excuse to change your ugly-looking, leaky roof into something of pride and quality.

Here are some of the most popular types of roofs and their benefits:

Asphalt

The most common type of roof material is asphalt. Asphalt shingles are the go-to because they are cheaper than most other materials, and they typically last up to 20 years. There are also thicker versions of asphalt shingles that will last for 30 years and are more visually-pleasing (and can sometimes resemble slate roofing.)

Wood

Wood shingles are perhaps the oldest type of roofing, and can last for around 15 years (with regular maintenance.) However, wood tends to cost nearly twice as much as asphalt shingles, and yet lasts around the same amount of time. However, the reason that so many people do prefer wood is because of its look. It may be a more appealing choice, especially if your home’s siding is also made from wood.

It is important to note that areas that are more prone to droughts may actually have a ban on wooden roofs, since it can be a potential fire hazard.

Ceramic Tile

Ceramic tile roofing is popular in Spanish-style homes, with shingles shaped into half-cylinders. Tile roofing is one of the most durable types of shingles, but also the heaviest. It is important to first determine if your home can handle the weight of a tile roof, or it could potentially lead to irreversible damage to your home down the road.

Metal

Metal is a good option for Florida homes since it can easily withstand the hurricanes. Plus now with the new insurance guidelines, metal roofs won’t need to be replaced as quickly. Metal and copper roofs come in either standing seam or shingle form. This material tends to last a long time, typically guaranteed for up to 50 years.

Slate

Slate is one of the most long-lasting of all roof materials. These roofs are often recycled after the rest of a house has been torn down, since the material can last over one hundred years. Slate is also great for New England homes because it sheds ice and snow, helping you avoid a risk of collapse during a harsh winter. Of course, the more durable the material, the more expensive it is, making slate the most expensive of roofing materials.

The best way to determine which roof is right for your home is to speak with a roofing specialist. Make note that not all types of roofing will be beneficial for your home. A professional roof contractor can examine your home and decide if a certain material would work well with the house, as well as install it professionally.

As with most things, the more you spend on roofing materials, the longer they will last. A contractor will be able to help determine which type of roof fits best into your budget. Do-it-yourself roofs do not last as long as when they are professionally installed, so a contractor is greatly recommended if you need to replace your roof.



If you are in the market for a new roof, talk with a reputable roofer to understand the different types of roof available.