Different Types of Materials Used in Making Roofs

You can use many materials to make roofs. You can choose from wood, stone, clay, and metal and polycarbonate roofing sheets. Because you want your home to last longer, you need to choose the right roofing material. Here’s a list of some of the most commonly used materials in roofing in Boise – accompanied by some of the disadvantages and benefits of using them to cover your home.

Wood Shake

This is a great option for a rustic or natural home. Cedar wood is most commonly used. However, there are other options. Redwood is also an option. The downside of using wood is the possibility for it to rot. Wood shake roofs will last homeowners 14-20 years before they have to be replaced.

Steel Roofing

Steel is another affordable and popular metal roofing material. There are three types: galvanized, stone-coated, and galvalume. Galvanized steel is made with zinc which makes it less susceptible to corrosion. Galvalume is coated using aluminum which is also resistant to corrosion. This kind of steel roofing is paintable and available in a range of colors. Stone-coated steel is made from a mixture of zinc granules and ceramic-coated limestone granules.

Asphalt

Asphalt shingles are a great option to cover your roof. They make them by sandwiching layers made of asphalt and fiberglass and then adding a layer of gravel. The gravel gives the asphalt its color and protects it against UV damage and walking wear. Asphalt shingles have one of the lowest expected lifespans of any roofing material. Asphalt shingles are sometimes confused with composite roofing. While the two products have a similar appearance, their shapes and overall shape are not identical. Composites are more durable and can last a lot longer.

Tile

For quite a long time, clay tiles have been used for roofing all around the globe. About as long as slate, tile is made from clay or fired ceramic and is hardy, durable, and resistant to sun and water. Spanish tile is unique in that it curves and sheds water well. You can order roof tiles in flat or multicolored profiles. Clay and ceramic tiles are very heavy, so it is important to have a strong roof structure. This material is delicate and easily breaks if it’s walked on. This means your repair man has to be really careful.

Metals

Metal roofs are another popular choice for roofing, especially in commercial applications. You can choose from panels or shingles. Copper, aluminum, and zinc are just a few of the many metals that can be used for roofing. Metal roofs are lightweight and long-lasting. They can also be recycled easily and resist extreme weather conditions. But they can cost a whole fortune most of the time.

Slate

Slate can be purchased in a range of colors, such as black, gray, and red. This adds to the aesthetic appeal of a roof. Although slate is fireproof and durable, it can also be heavy, so additional framing is a necessary and professional installation. Slate, which is a hard rock, can be cut into thin slabs measuring between ¼” and 1”. Slate has a long life span and is very expensive.