Roof installation, repair, and replacement are expensive home improvement projects. In most of these projects, quality, expense, and longevity directly correlate. For example, high-quality roofs are more durable than low-quality ones. Therefore, spending a little more can help you find a roof that will serve you for many years without replacement or frequent repairs. Asphalt is the most common roofing material installed in most houses today. Besides asphalt, there are other durable residential roofing materials that can last for 35 years or more.
They include:
Durable Roofing: Slate Roof
Slate is the strongest and most durable roofing material today. It can last for more than 100 years. This pricey option can withstand almost any weather condition, except powerful tornadoes, and retain its beauty and structural integrity.
Basically, this material is a natural metamorphic stone, meaning that it needs a strong foundation and sufficient truss strength to remain stable. A slate tile roof is very expensive, but it can serve many future generations after installation. It usually has a warranty of 50 years to a lifetime.
Durable Roofing: Clay Tile Roof
The clay or Spanish tile roofs are long-lasting. They have a lifespan of approximately 100 years. Additionally, they are low maintenance and not susceptible to loose granules or decays like wood. However, they are prone to cracking.
The most effective way to protect these roofing materials is to avoid walking on the roof and hire regular roof inspection services from professionals. Manufacturers often offer a warranty of about 30 years.
Clay tile roofs are suitable for areas with hot, sunny climates because they can withstand intense heat from the sun. They are also heavy, brittle, and require precise measuring during installation. Hiring a professional for the job will protect the home roof’s structure.
Durable Roofing: Metal Roofs
Metal roofs are attractive, durable, and high-quality. They can serve you for more than 70 years. They are costly, although the price depends on the coating and type. For example, stone-coated steel tiles cost approximately $900 per square meter, while the steel or aluminum standing-seam panels cost around $115 per square meter.
In metal roofing, thickness also translates to quality and durability. For example, thinner metals of 26-29 gauge are less durable and have a lifespan of 20-25 years. Consider purchasing the high-end roof with a smaller gauge number for a longer lifespan.
You can find different types of metal roofing on the market today, each with a different lifespan. The stand seam metal roofing has a lifespan of 50 years. The ribbed metal panels can last for between 25-50 years.
The stone-coated steel tiles can last up to 50 years. They are common in hurricane-prone areas like Florida. Metal roofs are more suitable for areas with heavy snowfall or that are vulnerable to wildfires.
Durable Roofing: Concrete Tiles
This roofing material is an excellent alternative to clay tiles. The two have similar advantages and installation techniques. The difference is that concrete tiles are made from the standard sand-mix concrete.
You can find different types, some with a decorative coating. Concrete tile roofs are a perfect choice for high-wind areas. Their life expectancy is 50 years or more.
Durable Roofing: Solar Roofing Tiles
Some homeowners prefer installing solar panels on traditional roofs. Solar roofing tiles are a new technology. They are in their infancy but are advancing rapidly. They are attractive, energy-efficient, and durable.
This roof can serve you for more than 4 decades, as long as you conduct regular maintenance. The manufacturers offer a warranty of at least 30 years. However, they are pricey and cost about $22,000 more than the standard solar panels.
Durable Roofing: Wood Shake Shingle Roof
These wood shake shingles are thicker than regular wood shingles. They can also withstand tougher weather conditions, such as storms and UV rays. With proper maintenance, this roofing material can last for more than three decades. Ensure that you eliminate any debris or moss and schedule professional inspections regularly.
Durable Roofing: Composite Roofs
If you want a durable and long-lasting roof for your residential property, you should consider choosing synthetic composite shingles and tiles. These materials have a similar appearance to the natural slate tiles. They are also strong and lightweight.
Composite roofs can also withstand straight-line and hurricane-grade winds. With proper installation and maintenance, this material can last for around 50 years. It comes with a warranty of between 20-30 years.
In summary, roof materials vary in size, composition, shape, price, and type. Your roof’s lifespan depends on factors like environmental conditions, quality, and roofing material used. If you have a home improvement project, you should consider selecting durable roofing materials like metal, clay tiles, slate, and wood shakes. They are costly but are worth the investment. Moreover, their installation requires unique skills and should only be done by a professional roofing company like Billings Roofing & Solar.
