Roofing Materials: The Pros and Cons of Different Types

When you need a roofing installation, Arlington, VA, roofing contractors offer many choices for materials. Each has characteristics that may make it more suitable for your home. Working with professional roofers gives you the highest-quality materials possible and trustworthy recommendations.

Before choosing a roofing typr, it’s best to understand the benefits and advantages of each. Between appearance, price, maintenance requirements, colors, and other factors, narrowing your choices down to the ideal roofing type ensures your home gets the superior protection it deserves.

The following roofing materials are popular among today’s homeowners. Take some time to familiarize yourself with these to make an informed decision regarding your roof’s material.

Asphalt Composite Shingles

Asphalt composite shingles, or GAF® shingles, are some of the most popular options for DIY home improvement and professional roofing installation in Arlington. Asphalt, fiberglass, or mineral granules combine to form a durable yet lightweight, inexpensive roofing shingle. Your home gets reliable protection against all weather conditions.

Pros of asphalt shingles include versatility and flexibility in color and style. Additionally, their affordability makes them a top consideration for those with low budgets. Thick, high-quality GAF® shingles come with an extended warranty and last up to five decades.

Composite shingles have a few downsides. In addition to having a shorter lifespan than other roofing materials, composites have the potential to tear away from roofs in high winds unless you use thick, premium-grade shingles.

Over the years, UV ray exposure can damage these shingles, though they aren’t difficult to replace. They install quickly and need little preparation.

Slate Roof Tiles

Slate roof tiles are one of the most durable kinds of roofing installation that Arlington delivers. They entail a longer installation process, but the long-term advantages are excellent. Consider slate if you have a large budget and want the most reliable natural option.

Many homeowners enjoy the benefits of slate tiles, such as:

• A trusted, classic roof style
• Durable roofing materials
• Little to no maintenance requirements
• Significantly increased property resale value
• A lifespan of 20 to 30 years

These tile types require careful installation to avoid damaging them further. Despite their strength, they are susceptible to physical impacts. Slate tiles demand an expert roof contractor to install and replace them carefully.

Other potential disadvantages of a roofing installation with slate include the weight. Stone tiles are heavier than alternative roofing types, and homes must have special roof framing to support them. They also have fewer colors and styles than asphalt and other tile types.

Clay Roofing

Clay roofing systems provide long-lasting protection and are the top alternative to metal or composite tile roofing. Clay roofing also incorporates concrete and comes in different styles. 

A clay roofing installation from a reputable Arlington roofing company comes in many colors and textures. You can easily mimic other roofing types while retaining clay’s fireproof qualities. Whether you want a slate-like appearance or a wood roof without the limitations that come with it, clay or concrete roofing is a wise choice.

Some clay and concrete tiles may reflect the sun’s UV rays. They provide excellent insulation due to the open space between the roof’s underlayment and tiles. However, the underlayment faces more humidity exposure.

Clay and concrete tiles act similarly to slate but offer less durability. They break easily, and clay options are significantly costlier than concrete. Though repairing or replacing these tiles can be tedious, they require little maintenance after installation.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing comes in multiple types and styles. Materials include copper, steel, and aluminum. Homeowners can choose between metal sheet roofing and metal roofing tiles.

Metal shingles install similarly to traditional asphalt shingles. Standard flat metal roofs have seams that join each panel together. Because of their flat appearance, metal roofs won’t work with every home’s aesthetic.

A metal roofing installation in Arlington brings benefits like long-lasting protection against hail, high winds, and other inclement weather. Because they are environmentally friendly and heat-reflective, you’ll save more on temperature control despite the higher initial cost.

Metal roofing’s main downside is its corrosive nature. Steel is especially prone to rust, as are roofs that collect large amounts of water. Unfortunately, you’ll need a high-quality corrosion protectant to keep certain metal roofs from rusting.

Hail and tree limbs may dent sheet metal roofs, while heat causes metal shingles to expand and contract, eventually loosening and causing other damage.

Wood Shingles

Wood shingles are a suitable option if you desire a less traditional appearance. They are popular for their weather resistance to Virginia’s high winds and rainfall. Uniform wooden shingles are easy to install and provide an organized, smooth aesthetic.

Wood shingles are highly durable and face no corrosion concerns. They withstand significant physical force and provide excellent energy efficiency because of their thickness. Hail and severe storm damage are no match for these shingles.

Cons of wood shingles include their price and maintenance requirements. They can be expensive depending on the wood you choose and its thickness.

Wood is one of the most hazardous roofing types due to its flammability and porousness. Because wood absorbs moisture and is prone to burning, shingles need annual maintenance. Applying a coat of sealant, fire protectant, fungicide, and other solutions makes them last for decades.

Choose the Best Roofing Material With Help From Nova Exteriors

Picking the best roofing material for your home is no easy task. You have many high-quality options. Whether you select traditional asphalt tiles, durable slate, or metal panel roofing, your choice should be the one that meets your home’s comfort and protection needs.

When you need a reliable roofing company to help you select the best roofing material, look no further than Nova Exteriors in Alexandria, VA. We have over 25 years of experience. We’ll help you make a confident decision on your roof’s material, style, and color.

Protect your roof today! Contact the professionals at Nova Exteriors team for the best roofing installation Arlington, VA, homeowners can get. Call our Alexandria office at (703) 322-1500.

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