What roof to choose

Most homeowners want a roof that's not too expensive, requires no maintenance, and lasts forever. But most roofs are replaced - or at least repaired - every ten years. It is always better to choose roofing materials that will last and extend its life before replacement. In the long run, you'll use less building material, fill up less landfill space with discarded material, and put less demand on our natural resources.

You can realize other environmental benefits by thinking GREEN with your roofing choices. If you select a light-colored surface or a material that doesn't absorb heat from the sun, you significantly reduce your home's cooling needs. When your attic stays cooler, your cooling bills go down.

There is a wide choice of materials used to roof a house. Modern products like plastic, fiberglass, metal and concrete are available. New products are being developed to overcome the shortcomings of older roofing materials, meet the demands of modern building techniques, and conform to increasingly stringent building codes.

The Tabs will explain some of the popular roofing types. Remember that cost alone does not determine quality, and not all of these products will meet the needs of your home. But by carefully selecting the right material, making sure it's installed properly by a certified roofing contractor and performing modest maintenance occasionally, you can have a roof that functions properly for 20 to 50 years - or even longer.

Composition Shingles

Composition shingles are a good choice for a clean look at an affordable price. Higher-quality versions made from asphalt or fiberglass shingles offer a more durable option and may be available with recycled content.

Composition shingles come in a large selection of types, brands and colors. Versatile, they adapt easily to different applications. They are relatively easy to install, and in some applications can be nailed in place over an existing roof. They require low maintenance and can be walked on without damaging the material. Most brands offer Class A fire protection.

PROS

• Inexpensive
• ranges from low-cost 3-tab shingle to architectural shingles with extra durability and style
• many colors, types, and manufacturers
• suitable for most residential applications
• easy to repair
• fire resistant

CONS

• relatively short life-span (15–30 years)
• scars easily when hot
• subject to mildew and moss
• Subject to wind damage

Metal Roofing According to the National Roofing Contractors Association, the popularity of metal roofing products has increased dramatically over the past decade, a clear sign that homeowners and builders are growing more and more aware of this product's benefits. Metal roofs are favored for their fire-resistant qualities, expected longevity, and speed of installation They are also surprisingly lightweight and are great at reflecting heat from the sun.Thus making them energy efficient.

These roof materials are made from aluminum and steel other materials such as copper and alloys are also used. Some sheet-style materials “standing seam roofing” have a  commercial look that is favored by architects for the clean, contemporary appearance. Other products are formed into shapes that imitate Spanish tile, wood shakes, or slate, and they’re given multi-layer factory finishes that include granulated-stone topcoats to complete the realistic effect.

Many companies will give a 30 to 50 year guarantee or lifetime replacement. Metal roofing requires professional installation if you want your guarantee

There are a few drawbacks for this roofing system. When you calculate its longevity, low upkeep and energy efficiency the higher pricing seems reasonable. Insurance companies will even give your home a discount of up to 35%. You can also recieve 30% of cost, up to $1500 tax credit.

In Florida many insurance companies suggest anyone near the ocean will do well to convert to metal roofing.

Tile Roof

Roof tile are usually made from slate or clay, yet they are also available in concrete, plastic, and other more modern roofing materials. When it comes to durability, ‘cement roof tile’ or ‘concrete roof tile’, are most suited. Made from sand, cement, and pigment, cement roof tile do not rot, curl, burn, or rust, and have a high solar reflectance. As a result, cement roof tile are generally given a lifetime warranty. Additionally, concrete roof tile can withstand pressures of up to 400 pounds without reinforcement, making maintenance both safer and easier. Alternatively, clay roof tile offers authenticity and architectural character, and can be suited to both modern and historical appearances. Clay roof tile can also withstand climatic elements well, and their durability improves with exposure. The combination of performance and aesthetic enhancement make clay roof tile a popular choice. Whatever you choose, our contractors offer all roof tile related services, such as installation, repair, and maintenance, in all major cities, at an affordable price.

The colors and surface, layout methods and coatings are various, giving homeowners a true choice when they decide on the Mediterranean roof tile look, between plain terracotta colors to blended colors, rustic and aged looks, and more. Even the tile size varies from 22 to 70 per square meter.