If you need to get a new roof, it’s a pretty big hassle. It costs a large amount of money, makes your home nearly unlivable for a few days, and is generally a pain. There is a plus side, though. With this new roof renovation, you have options. There are a number of different things you can use to cover your new roof, and each has their own advantages.
Composite Shingles
Also known as asphalt shingles, this is the most common form of roofing for residential homes. They consist of a fiberglass mat pressed between two layers of asphalt. These come in sheets that layer across the roof, and can be installed by pretty much any roofer. They aren’t too expensive either, but the drawback is they only last twenty years or so before they need to be replaced again.
Wood Shingles
Wood shingles have been used extensively in the past, but are used less and less nowadays. One of the big problems is that there is no effective way to fireproof them. If you live somewhere where fires aren’t a likely issue, though, wood shingles might be the best choice for you. They last incredibly long, up to fifty years, and perform well in drier climates. It’s a bit pricier than asphalt shingles, though.
Metal Panels
As the popularity of wood shingles has fallen, metal panels have become increasingly popular. Once mainly used in commercial roofs, more and more traditional homes are being covered with metal panels. They are extremely durable and long lasting, capable of resisting even extreme weather conditions. One of the problems is that they are quite pricey to initially install, but cost less on the upkeep.
Clay Tiles
Many southern or Mediterranean homes use clay tiles on their roofs. Like metal, tiles also last a long time, but the clay is also quite heavy, so the roof needs to be able to bear quite a load to use these tiles. They are roughly about as expensive to install as the metal panels, too. It’s a popular option in Florida, so it might be the right choice if you need a new roof in St. Augustine.
Whatever type of roof you end up choosing, it’s important that you hire an experienced and respected professional to install it for you. HW Contracting can meet with you, plan a budget and schedule, and decide what roof is best for you. The roofing material won’t matter if it’s done with shoddy craftsmanship, and you might find yourself regretting your choice if you’re not careful. Contact us today.
