There are so many different types of roofing materials to choose from it can be difficult to make a choice. Each type has there pluses and minuses so I thought I would address the pros and cons of roofing materials that are most commonly used in an effort to help you make your choice. Generally the type of roofing material used on a house depends on the region that you live in.

Metal roofing:

Metal roofing is made of steel, aluminum, tin, and copper. Metal roofing is lightweight and resistant to fire, mildew and rot. It works well in weather areas of high winds and heavy precipitation. Medal roofing will last for decades as opposed to other roofing material that has to be replaced every twenty five years or less.

Asphalt and fiberglass shingle roofing:

Asphalt and fiberglass shingles are one of the most widely used roofing materials used in residential house construction today. These shingles are relatively inexpensive and easy to install. Unfortunately they have a short life span of 20 to 30 years. They can also be prone to mildew and moss on roof slopes that are north facing.

Wood shingles roofing:

Wood shingles can last for up to 50 years or more if maintained. The better quality wood shingles are made from western red cedar which is resistant to wood rot and decay. There are two types of wood shingles, the hand sawn and tapered (called a shake) and those that are sawed. Wood shingles blend in well with the surrounding environment and are easy to repair or replace. However, they are expensive.

Clay tile roofing:

Clay tile has many advantages. They are resistant to mold, and decay, and are also fire resistant. Clay tile roofing is used in the southwestern US, Italy, Mexico and Spain. They are also prevalent in California and Florida. There drawback is that they are very heavy and expensive to install.

Slate roofing:

Slate roofing lasts for decades if not centuries and is nearly indestructible. It is low maintenance and fireproof. However, slate roofing is expensive.

Before you make a decision on which roofing materials to use be sure to evaluate the cost of installation. Choose a quality roofing material that will last for many years. In addition, only hire a reputable roofing professional as a poorly installed roof will cost you more money in the long run.

Before deciding what type of material to choose, consider which region your home is located. Your decision should depend on the type of climate and weather conditions. Consider the pros and cons of roofing material and select the one that best fits your environment.

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