From Asphalt Shingles to Zinc Strips

4 Types Of Residential Roofing To Compare Before Getting A New Roof

There are several good choices in residential roofing, so it can be hard to choose just the right one when you're putting a new roof on your home. If your roof had asphalt shingles before and you were happy with them, you might get shingle roofing again. But, you might want higher-quality shingles or a different color. Talk to your roofer about the best type of roofing for your location and home's architecture.

Here are some residential roofing options to discuss. 

1. Clay Tiles

Clay tile roofing is popular in some areas. It's a good choice for homes in warm states, but the tiles can be used in other areas too. If any of the homes in your city or neighborhood have clay tiles, you may want to switch to them when you get your new roof.

They're expensive though, so that's something to consider. However, the cost evens out over the long term since clay tiles are so durable and they last for several decades.

2. Solar Tiles

If you're thinking about getting solar power, you might prefer solar tiles over solar panels. Solar panels are obvious from the street, and they change the appearance of your roof. Plus, panels aren't very attractive. Solar shingles do the same job as panels and they stay flat against the roof so they look like traditional roofing.

3. Metal Panels Or Tiles

Metal is a popular type of residential roofing since it's light, durable, and has a long lifespan. Being light, it can go over other types of roofing, so that might save a little money on installation costs. Metal roofs are attractive and colorful, so they are great complements to your home.

Standing seam metal roofing is nearly watertight since the seams are folded over after they lock together. Metal is also a good protector since it protects your home from fires, animal pests, and hail.

4. Luxury Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles get a lot of attention because they are affordable, so you may not know there are grades of shingles you can buy. The highest-quality shingles are the luxury grade. These have a different look from the inexpensive shingles because they're laminated. They're also thicker so they stand up to hail better. If you like asphalt shingles but wish you didn't have to make repairs as often, then upgrading to higher-quality shingles could be the right choice.

Important things to compare when choosing new residential roofing include price, longevity, hail ratings, fire ratings, wind ratings, appearance, weight, and maintenance needs.