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The Difference Between Home Roofing Materials

16
Jun

new maryland home with new roof

When it comes to home roofing materials to choose from in and around central Maryland, there is certainly no shortage of options. With the variety of materials on the market today, each definitely has their pros & cons. This being said, the following information should help you make the right decision for your needs.

Asphalt Shingle Roofing

We’ll start with the most-popular choice in the United States – and there’s a reason for it. To start, asphalt shingles are affordable, come in a variety of colors, and they are quite easy for your local roofing contractor to install. Another benefit is that shingles do not add a significant amount of weight to your home’s roof. It is common with other roofing materials that a roof’s structure may need to be reinforced with other, heavier options. A knock on asphalt shingles used to be that they weren’t the most aesthetically pleasing in years past, however shingles have come a long way when it comes to style and durability.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing has gained in popularity as a material in recent years, as it is one of high efficiency when it comes to energy. As the heat from the sun is kept at bay, central Maryland homes are able to be kept at comfortable temperatures without having to heavily rely on HVAC systems. The downside of metal roofing is that it is more expensive than other available options, but it definitely has its benefits!

Synthetic Roofing

Synthetic roofing is more of a general category including the likes of rubber, plastic, and more. One the advantages of these types of products is that they tend to be lighter and more-affordable than other “traditional options”. A downside is that many types of synthetic roofs have not been tested to be as durable as some of the more popular choices, so they may not do as well in protecting Maryland homes from the diverse elements we tend to face year-round.

Wooden Shingles

Nothing says “traditional roof” more than the appeal of beautiful, natural wood. The time-honored look of wood enables a home to really stand out in a neighborhood. Unfortunately, the downside to the great looks is that there is added risk of fire, and it is not as durable in the long run – especially in damp climates.

Concrete Tiles

Concrete tiles are a material that will stand the test of time, and many homeowners choose them for this exact reason. Concrete tiles are also a great choice when it comes to energy efficiency and durability. As with many other specialized materials, there are some negatives. Concrete tiles are extremely heavy and can get quite pricey. Unlike we mentioned above regarding asphalt shingles, most homes will need additional framing/support in order to accommodate the weight of the concrete material.

Slate Roofing

If you’ve ever heard the phrase “Slate looks great!”, it can certainly be applied to slate roofing. Much like concrete tiling, however, slate can also get to be expensive product when it comes to materials (as well as installation). Also like concrete tiles, additional support may need to be added to the roof to handle the sheer weight of the product.