Updating a roof adds value to your home – and protects it against damaging elements. The material you select for your roof can completely change the look, style and color of your home, but choosing a new roof is about more than just aesthetics. You must also consider cost, weight and installation requirements. Here is your Pittsburgh guide to roofing materials to help you make an educated decision:
Metal RoofingMetal roofs are available in both panel and shingle style and come in steel, copper, aluminum and zinc. Many Pittsburghers are discovering the advantages of metal roofs, which offer the most value over time.
They come in a variety of styles and colors and offer the most protection from the elements including heat and wind. Metal is also great roofing material for Pittsburghers who collect rainwater for recycling.
Pros: Highly durable, long-lasting (75 years), high solar reflecting qualities, energy-efficient, fire-resistant, are made with recycled materials and can be recycled.
The bottom line here is this—we’re experiencing a shift in the roofing industry. Traditional materials are all over the board in terms of durability, protection and efficiency. Metal roofing materials offer significantly longer life, more protection and can increase a home’s cooling efficiency by 60%. Over time, the return on investment of a metal roof is significantly higher.
Style is no limitation either. Aluminum roofing materials can be fashioned to look like any traditional roofing material.
While considering your next roofing project, you should seriously consider utilizing metal.
Asphalt ShinglesAsphalt is the most common roofing material you’ll find in Pittsburgh because the shingles are cheap and easy to install. They can also be reinforced with fiberglass or cellulose without changing the appearance of the roof.
Pros: Asphalt roofing comes in a wide variety of colors and is one of the least expensive roofing materials.
Cons: Asphalt does not insulate as well as other materials, does not last as long, and the quality can vary significantly from manufacturer to manufacturer.
Wood Shingles And Wood ShakesWood shingles offer a distinctive appearance, but fire codes can often forbid their usage unless the shingles are coated with a Class A Fire-rated product.
Pros: Create a unique, rustic look; wood is natural product.
Cons: Susceptible to fire, mold, splitting and rot. Wood and shake roofs last 25 years like asphalt, but can cost twice as much.
Clay And Concrete TilesThese materials add a bit of texture to a roof, with a touch of elegance. Clay and concreate tiles are durable, but they are also heavy and must be installed by an expert.
Pros: Long life (40+ years), non-combustible, energy-efficient.
Cons: Costs can quickly add up, materials are heavy and typically will require additional framing.
Slate RoofingSlate is an extremely durable roofing material that offers a unique, elegant appearance in a variety of colors and shades.
Pros: Fire-resistant, sustainable, recyclable, and long-lasting (50-100 years).
Cons: Costly, heavy, and requires additional framing work. Quality can also vary significantly from manufacturer to manufacturer.
Synthetic Roofing MaterialsRubber, plastic and polymer are gaining in popularity as a means to give the look and feel of natural materials at a lower price point.
Pros: Durable, lightweight, cost-effective, often provide longer warranties.
Cons: Quality can vary significantly from manufacturer to manufacturer, and new materials are not as time-tested as more traditional roofing materials.
A new roof is a significant investment in the value, safety and appearance of your Pittsburgh home. If you are ready to connect with a roofing expert that can guide you through the process of selecting the right roofing materials for your home and budget, contact the team at Legacy Remodeling today.
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