Working at Height: Installing a New Roof

Posted on: 18 April 2017

When choosing new roofing materials for your home, you want to think past the initial cost of the materials and installation and consider longevity more seriously. Needing to replace the roof or make extensive repairs every few years can actually be more costly over the life of your home than if you choose a material that is meant to last for decades. Before you decide on the right roofing material for your home, note a few suggestions for the most durable and long-lasting choices, beyond standard asphalt tiles.

Slate

This roofing material has been around for centuries, and some slate roofs are just that old. Slate is a natural stone that is very thick and dense, so it's not likely to blow away in a storm or suffer water damage over the years, and it's also virtually fireproof. However, because it's so thick and dense, slate is also very heavy, so your home may need some added bracing to give the roof strength in order for it to hold up a slate roof.

Clay

Like slate, clay has been used for centuries as a roofing material, mostly in Mediterranean areas and areas of California in the U.S., as the material is very durable when exposed to bright and direct sunlight and high humidity levels. Clay is also virtually fireproof, and the clay used on residential roofs is dried to become very dense and water-resistant. It does not decay over time and won't hold mould or mildew, as does a wood material or asphalt tiles; clay also won't crumble away or shrink, as does asphalt. Clay is more lightweight than slate but can still be relatively heavy, so note if your home might need bracing to support a clay roof.

Plastic

Plastic roofing tiles are a good option for someone who wants the look of another material but without the cost or weight, as plastic can be painted and stamped to look like metal, slate, clay, wood, asphalt shingles, and other such materials. The plastic material won't rot and decay or crumble away like asphalt tiles and won't suffer water damage or hold mould and mildew. Plastic is also very lightweight, so it's good for older homes that may have a weaker frame, although plastic is not always the most fire-resistant choice.

Metal

Metal roofs are lightweight and fireproof and don't rot or crumble like asphalt shingles. Aluminium also doesn't rust or corrode, so it can be even more durable than a steel roof. A metal roof can last for many decades if installed properly, and it will protect your home from water leaks as well as providing more insulation than asphalt tiles.

For more information on different roofing materials and how long you can expect them to last, contact a professional roofing company.