Roof installation is still one of the most expensive home decorations. Throughout the United States, homeowners use asphalt shingles for roofing and reroofing—this is the most common type of residential roofing material. Asphalt shingles are durable, inexpensive and easy to install. Other common roofing materials include tiles, metal, wood, and slate. Make sure to check for signs of roof damage regularly to prevent costly problems. If the roof is damaged, please determine if simple on-site repairs are required before choosing a complete reinstallation.
It is very important to make regular visual inspections of the roof to look for signs of damage. Natural disasters such as tornadoes, earthquakes, or fires are obvious signs of roof damage, but more common signs may be stains or drips on the ceiling, signs of wear (such as shingles cracked or missing), rust spots, moss or lichen growth, under the eaves Discoloration or peeling paint.
Asphalt shingles are composed of particles, which tend to decompose over time. Particles found in house drains may indicate that shingles is rupturing and needs to be replaced.
If there is a leak on the ceiling, if the house has an unfinished attic or pitched roof, the homeowner can determine the source of the leak. Remedies for simple leaks include filling cracks with caulk, replacing some shingles or installing waterproof panels to divert water away from the home. Calling a professional is usually easier to find the source of the leak and determine the next steps, especially when the leak occurs in a home that does not have an unfinished attic or crawl space above the ceiling.
Even if there are no obvious signs of damage, if the roof is more than 20 years old or out of warranty, it may be time for a professional roofer to replace the roof. Active roof replacement will help prevent major damage to the roof structure and other parts of the house in the future.
There are many types of roofs suitable for different needs, costs, climate and labor. Read on to find the best option for you.
Asphalt shingles are still the most popular type of roofing material. According to the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association, asphalt shingles make up four-fifths of the roofs of houses in the United States. The durability, low cost, and ease of installation of asphalt shingles mean low labor costs when hiring professional contractors. Asphalt shingles are composed of glass fiber, asphalt and ceramic particles. Shingles is light in weight and available in a variety of colors. It is also waterproof and provides good insulation.
Asphalt shingles not only require little maintenance, but also perform well in extreme temperatures with frequent wind, rain and ice. There are a series of textures and architectural styles that enable homeowners to get almost any look they want at an economical price. On average, asphalt shingles can last for 20 years, but a warm and humid climate may shorten their service life to 10 years. If the roof is not too steep, amateur DIY enthusiasts can learn to install shingles by themselves.
Slate roofs are common in the northeast, where centuries-old Gothic and Victorian houses are the norm. Colors include dark gray, green and red. Slate is almost indestructible and can be used for up to 100 years even in extreme weather. Slate roofs are often considered a luxury choice for homeowners, because this material is expensive and heavy.
Ordinary roof professionals do not have the ability to handle slate roof work. Professional masons are usually the only qualified professionals who can install the slate correctly. We do not recommend DIYers to try to install or repair slate roofs.
Tile is a durable choice for homes in Florida and the Southwest. They reflect heat, similar to Mediterranean or Spanish style buildings. Tile installation is difficult and laborious, so it is recommended to hire a professional. There are two types of tiles commonly used in American households: clay and concrete.
Clay bricks are usually barrel-shaped and reddish brown in color. Since tiles are durable but heavy, the roof structure should be evaluated before switching to clay tiles. Clay bricks can be used for up to 75 years, but chipping or cracking due to pressure is a common problem.
The concrete bricks are strong, fireproof, insect-proof and resistant to hail damage. Although more expensive than asphalt shingles, concrete shingles can resemble the more expensive bucket clay tiles, slate roofs, or wood planks, and the cost is only a small part of it. The roof structure should be evaluated before switching to concrete tiles because they are heavy.
Metal roofs are usually composed of strips, panels or tiles. Common types include steel, aluminum, copper, and alloys. They can be found in different climates across the United States. According to the skills of roofers, the service life of metal roofs is much longer than that of asphalt shingles (generally up to 50 years). They usually have ridged or textured surfaces, which provide a wider variety of styles. Factory paint finishes can also improve the overall appearance of the house by using different colors and combinations.
The metal roof is strong, lightweight, corrosion-resistant, fireproof and recyclable. They can effectively reflect sunlight, which makes them a viable choice for families in warm climates. However, metal roofs can be very smooth, especially in cold climates where it often snows. It is recommended to install snow protection devices on the edge of the roof to prevent heavy snow from falling and injuring passers-by.
If there is no risk of injury to passers-by, the smooth surface of the metal roof may bring considerable benefits when clearing snow from the roof. When it rains or hail, the metal panel also makes a loud sound. This makes cheaper metals prone to dents, but a textured surface can help mask the appearance of dents, and higher-quality metals should not dent easily.
It is recommended to hire a professional roofer to ensure the effectiveness and service life of the metal roof, and to evaluate the quality of the purchased products.
Wood shingles or shingles are high-quality materials with a traditional, natural appearance. Over time, they tend to turn into a soft gray, which gives the house a subtle rustic appearance. It is not recommended for amateur DIYers to use shingles or shaking. Local regulations must also be reviewed to ensure that shingles are allowed. Wood roofs are not allowed in some areas of the United States because they may cause fires. If done well, shingles or shaking can last up to 50 years.
Rubber composite shingles are an effective substitute for asphalt shingles. They are made from a blend of plastic and recycled rubber, making rubber shingles an environmentally friendly option. They are similar to slate and wood milkshakes, which makes them an attractive and affordable material. The rubber tile is tough, durable, rot-resistant and insect-resistant, and has a service life of up to 50 years.
Regardless of whether the homeowner’s roof is gable, hip or flat-topped, asphalt shingles provide the homeowner with the opportunity to achieve a refined appearance at a very low cost. The standard 3-piece shingles allows the homeowner to create a textured appearance based on the number, shape, and alignment of the strips.
Building tiles can add a layer of depth, making the roof look custom-made, with non-repetitive patterns. The interlocking tiles are fastened to each other to improve wind resistance in extreme weather. Most types of shingles also have multiple colors. Depending on the appearance that the homeowner wants and the skills of the hired contractor, the potential designs are almost endless.
Remember, the steeper the slope of the roof, the more obvious it will be from the ground. Consult a professional roofer to determine which type of design is best for your home.
The homeowner should buy the best roofing material and find the most reliable contractor to install it. The first step in the shopping process is to determine which type of material is needed, and then shop around for different manufacturers. Estimate and compare the cost of each manufacturer before buying. Many contractors will provide advice, but be aware that many contractors may receive sales commissions.
The manufacturer calculates the price of the roofing material by square (one square equals 100 square feet). To estimate the cost, measure the roof section in feet, and then multiply the length and width to get the area in square feet. If measuring multiple parts, add the areas and add about 10% of the square feet to the total area to solve potential waste during installation. Divide the total by 100 to determine how many material squares may be needed.
Materials are usually sold in bundles, which means it is important to see how many square feet each bundle can cover. Consider purchasing additional materials for future damage. In the 20 to 50 year life cycle, manufacturers may stop producing certain materials, and over time, having extra bundles on hand will make it easier to perform local treatments.
Installation costs may vary depending on the roof style, the amount of labor involved, and the roofing materials. Check the manufacturer’s website to find out which contractor they recommend. The homeowner’s insurance policy may also include a list of certified contractors in your area. Look for contractors with at least a few years of experience and a good reputation. Obtain a local recommendation letter and ask for a local or state permit to ensure they are recognized.
When asking for a bid, ask for cost details, including labor, materials, warranty options, any additional costs they can bring, and emergency budgets in case of unexpected problems. We recommend soliciting bids from at least three contractors before signing any agreement to carry out the work.
Please be sure to read the rules of the lifetime warranty for roofing materials. Although warranties are sometimes advertised as being valid for life, they may only last for 10 years. If the warranty is still valid, the manufacturer will replace the defective shingles free of charge. After the warranty period expires, the value of the roofing material will depreciate over time. The homeowner will only be compensated at a lower value.
The manufacturer’s warranty usually does not cover extremely unpredictable weather. In this case, homeowners insurance can protect the homeowner.
Check whether the manufacturer’s warranty can be transferred to the new owner. If the homeowner chooses to sell the house before the roof warranty expires, providing a transferable warranty will be an added benefit to the buyer.
Chauncey grew up on a farm in rural northern California. At the age of 18, he traveled the world with a backpack and credit card, and found that the true value of any points or miles lies in the experience it brings. He is most comfortable sitting on a tractor, but he understands that opportunity is where he finds it, and discomfort is more interesting than complacency.
Lexie is an assistant editor responsible for writing and editing articles on various family-related topics. She has nearly four years of experience in the home improvement field and has used her expertise while working for companies such as HomeAdvisor and Angi (formerly Angie’s List).