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Types of Roof
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ASPHALT (Composition) SHINGLES are the
most popular roofing material in the U.S. because of relatively
low cost and comparable life expectancies. Asphalt shingles are
available in three fire ratings; Class A, B or C, with Class A providing
the greatest fire resistance. Also, for consumers in high-wind locations,
many asphalt shingles carry a “wind resistance” label
indicating that they’ve been manufactured and tested to demonstrate
acceptable resistance.
Asphalt shingles are available in a variety of colors
and can be reinforced with either organic or fiberglass materials.
This reinforcement will have little effect on the shingle’s
appearance. Both organic and fiberglass shingles are available in
laminated (architectural) grades that offer a textured appearance.
In areas of the country that are hot and humid, zinc granules can
be applied to either organic or fiberglass products to protect against
algae (fungus) attack. Both types of shingles have warranties up
to 20, 30, 40 or 50 years.
METAL roofing products are
primarily for commercial uses, but many homeowners choose this material
for its durability, low-maintenance, resistance to fire and adverse
weather conditions and is a great insulator. Metal roofing products
are available in two types: panels and shingles. Metal shingles
simulate traditional roof coverings such as wood shakes, tile and
shingles. Metal shingles are lightweight, come in a variety of styles
and colors and will not decompose. Drawbacks to metal roofs are
higher cost and denting. 30 year, 50 year or lifetime warrantees
are available for metal roofing materials.
SLATE tends to be more expensive
than other roofing materials but is considered indestructible. It
comes in different colors and grades, depending on where it was
quarried. Many homes in the Northeast are still protected by this
highly durable roofing product. An alternative to slate is manmade
slate roofing materials that look virtually like real slate. They
come in a variety of colors, are lightweight and resistant to moisture
and adverse weather. Slate roofing materials have Class A fire ratings
and are typically warranteed up to 50 years.
TILE is available in clay
or concrete and is a durable but fairly expensive roofing material.
The array of styles, colors and finishes for tile is numerous. One
of the most popular styles in the Southwest and Florida are “Mission-style”
and “Spanish” round-topped tiles. Flat styles also are
available to create French and English looks. Tile roofs are capable
of withstanding most adverse weather conditions and this resilience
enables tile manufacturers to offer limited lifetime warranties.
Due to the heaviness of tile, please check with your roofing contractor
to see if your house requires extra structural reinforcement. There
are also lightweight alternatives that look and perform like real
tile roofing.
WOOD SHINGLES AND SHAKES
are made from different woods such as cedar or southern pine redwood.
The difference between the two are shingles are machine-sawn while
shakes are hand-hewn and rougher looking. Because of their natural
look and rustic charm, wood shingles and shakes are popular on the
West Coast and parts of the Midwest. For brush fire prone areas,
fire preservative treatment is recommended. Most wood roofs are
covered by warranties but some local codes limit their use since
they have a UL fire rating or none at all.
There are synthetic alternatives to wood shingles
and shakes that simulate real wood but are much more durable and
able to withstand extreme weather conditions, have Class A fire
rating and warranties up to 50 years.
For further information on various
roofing materials, PLEASE VISIT THE LINKS BELOW:
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