Replacing the roof on your home is no small job. It is an investment that not only protects the home from water damage, but because it takes up so much real estate, it also adds to the home’s overall curb appeal. It only makes sense that you want to pick a roof that highlights your home’s best features, allows the house to stand out, and yet also does its job.
As you start to browse through the different types of roofing material, it’s natural to feel a bit overwhelmed and wonder which one is best for your home. Here we’ll take a look at the three most common types of roofs – cedar shakes, metal roofing, and asphalt shingles – and look at the pros and cons for each.
Pros and Cons of Cedar Shakes
If you want your home to have that rustic homey vibe, then cedar shakes could be the natural choice. These are a more traditional roofing material and will instantly change the look of your home. Besides their stunning appearance, they are rated very high for weather and storm resistance. They also do a great job when it comes to insulation which will help on your home heating/cooling bills, and they have a lifespan of 20-30 years.
As for the cons, this is definitely a more expensive roofing material and it’s quite common that it will require maintenance along the way. You can learn more about cedar shakes by visiting advantage-construction.com.
Pros and Cons of Metal Roofing
If lifespan is your top priority when it comes to roofing, metal roofs can’t be beaten. In general, they last 40-70 years, which means it will likely be the only roof you ever have to deal with. This option is very environmentally-friendly, eye-catching, and energy efficient.
As for its cons, this style of roof is very pricey, but remember it has a long lifespan. Also, the metal can get dented and will need attention, and then there is the fact that they can be noisy during large storms (from hail or heavy rain hitting it).
Pros and Cons of Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are probably the most common roofing material here in the US, and for good reason. This material is incredibly cost-effective, there is a huge array of textures and colors to choose from, and they are excellent when it comes to wind resistance. They can also be repaired quickly and relatively cost-effectively, and they are rated high when it comes to energy efficiency.
Another pro with asphalt shingles is that they can be used on roofs of all different shapes, designs, and slopes. The average lifespan for these is 15-20 years.
As for the cons, these tend to offer less insulation value than other materials. They can also be prone to requiring more maintenance, they don’t last as long as other materials, and they have a bigger effect on the environment.
So, as you mull over your roofing options, ultimately it comes down to budget, lifespan, maintenance, texture and color options, durability, and the look you are going for.
