What roofing material should you choose for your home in 2022? There are many options to choose from, offering different advantages and drawbacks.
You should consider several factors like your needs, preferences, budget, and the size of your roof. Of course, the climate in your area is also a significant factor to think about before deciding. Here are the best roofing materials to pick from in 2022:
Most Durable Roofing Material
1. Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is well-known for being long-lasting. It’s designed to withstand severe weather conditions like hurricanes, thunderstorms, and snowstorms. In addition, metal roofs are completely rustproof at all times of the year – whether it’s raining or sunny outside. This makes them a good option for roofing in the Southwest Denver Metro area, for example.
There are several metal roofs you can go with: standing seam, corrugated, and panels. Panels are made of various materials like steel, copper, aluminium, zinc, or fibreglass. They’re installed by overlapping or butt-welding the material together to create a solid surface that’s windproof and watertight.
Metal roofs are also energy-efficient. However, you should keep in mind that metal roofs may need repairs and painting every 5 to 10 years. In addition, they’re more expensive than asphalt shingles, but they offer excellent value for money with durability and weatherproof qualities.
2. Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing choice in America today. More than 70% of homes have this on their roofs, and for a good reason. They have a long lifespan of around 20 to 30 years if installed correctly by professionals.
They come in various shapes, sizes, colours, textures, styles, and types. There are many different types:
- organic
- fibreglass
- fire-resistant asphalt
- premium 3-tab asphalt shingles
- laminated asphalt shingles
- eco-friendly cool roofs
These are relatively inexpensive compared with other options for new roofs. They’re also the ideal choice when you want to cut down on your energy bills because they reflect sunlight well and make homes much more energy efficient.
However, they’re made from petroleum products, which are positively harmful to our environment due to their non-biodegradable properties. They’re also flammable, which can be a major drawback if you live in an area at high risk of wildfires.
3. Wood Shingles and Cement Tiles
Wood shingles and cement tiles are a great choice for your roof if you want a “green” outdoor surface. They can last 15 to 50 years before needing repairs or replacement and are environmentally friendly because of their recycled content.
Wood shingles are made from cedar or redwood, while cement tiles are composed of clay, sand, and wood fibre. Both types come in various colours, styles, textures, and designs that can give your home a beautiful yet functional look.
However, wood has to be treated periodically with natural oils to maintain its appearance.
This type of roof won’t be the best choice if you live in an area where it’s warm and sunny because the heat will make it expand easily, causing cracks.
4. Solar Shingles
Solar shingles are the future of rooftop design. They come in a variety of styles, such as organic and tile.
These are advantageous because they generate electricity for your home when the sun shines. Although the installation price is high, it often includes solar modules, cables, and inverters.
These will last for 20+ years while offering homeowners an alternative source of energy production. This type of roof is perfect if your primary reason for switching to solar power is to reduce your electricity costs.
5. Natural and Synthetic Composite Slate
Natural and synthetic slate shingles feature fibreglass fibres with resin to create the desired look for homes.
Slate roofing is extremely durable, lasting hundreds of years in harsh weather conditions like intense sunshine, high winds, and precipitation. It’s also incredibly energy efficient because it can reflect up to 80% of the sun’s rays.
Slate roofs are made from natural stone, making them costly compared with other roofing materials. The installation cost is also high because it requires specialized tools to nail correctly.
