One of the most wonderful things about America is the vast array of choices we have. From foods and household items to electronics and automobiles, the selection of these goods sold in the U.S. is generally much greater than in most other nations. (Just ask a non-American who visits a supermarket or big-box retailer for the first time). 

“Look at all this stuff! They don’t have any of this in Moldova!”

This phenomenon is even true with roofing materials. Whereas there were only a couple of roofing options available a few decades ago, nowadays homeowners can pick from a variety of materials, styles, and colors. This allows people to select the one that suits their home’s needs as well as their own personal tastes.

But how do you know which roofing material is right for you?

Pluses, Minuses of Roofing Material Options

Here is a breakdown of some of the benefits and disadvantages of each type:

Asphalt shingles
Pros: easy installation, feasible for most types of homes, resistant to fire, simple to repair, many colors available, relatively inexpensive
Cons: Life expectancy of just 15 to 30 years, relatively high maintenance, not eco-friendly

Wood shingles
Pros: long lifespan, simple to repair or replace, provides excellent insulation, has a natural look
Cons: difficult to install, higher flammability, less durable, relatively high maintenance

Metal
Pros: can be laid over existing roof, lighter weight, very durable, low maintenance, fire retardant, energy-efficient, many styles and colors available, recyclable
Cons: difficult to install, may require painting periodically, expensive

Clay tile
Pros: long lifespan, low maintenance, not combustible, many colors available, has an attractive look
Cons: difficult to install, very heavy, colors might fade, tiles may break when walking on roof, expensive

You’ve gotta choose something. This roof is toast.

Slate tile
Pros: very long lifespan, low maintenance, not combustible, has a beautiful look
Cons: Very heavy, expensive

Concrete tile
Pros: low maintenance, very durable, relatively lighter weight, many colors and styles available 
Cons: Expensive

Spanish tile
Pros: lifespan of up to 70 years, not combustible, provides excellent insulation, has an upscale look
Cons: Very heavy, expensive

Explore Your Options

Of course, the downside of having a bevy of choices is the increased difficulty of making a decision. So don’t be afraid to get advice from multiple roofing companies or product suppliers. That way, you’re more likely to get a better feel for what’s right for your home, rather than being talked into a specific material just because that supplier or roofer offers it.

In addition, you should ask for multiple price quotes on materials you are considering for your home as well as for the labor needed to replace your roof. For one thing, different roofers may charge different rates even for the same material type based on the companies’ core competencies and their relationships with their own suppliers. Plus, a higher cost for one material type when compared to another may be a key factor in your decision-making process.

If you find a good roofing contractor, the toughest part of replacing your roof could be picking out the material you want.

Lednor Home Solutions Can Help

Once you’ve chosen your roofing material, it’s just as essential to select a reputable roofing contractor. Lednor Home Solutions has been replacing roofs for over 30 years, so they have the experience and know-how to do the job right. Not only do they have over a hundred style and color combinations to choose from, but they also back up their work with a full ten-year workmanship warranty and a lifetime limited manufacturer warranty. Contact Lednor Home Solutions for a free, on-site estimate by calling 1-888-5-HELMET or filling out this form to set up an appointment.

Written by Del Thebaud