A roof replacement involves major work and is also a big investment. Unless there are any visible damage signs on the rooftop, many homeowners do not even consider it.
While there can be many reasons you may need a new roof, each has different requirements, challenges, and guidelines. And these characteristics define the quality and success of your roof.
If you do not know how to choose the appropriate roofing materials for your new roof, our expert roofing contractor in Philadelphia can help you make an informed decision.
Check out these 6 different roof types and their advantages and disadvantages based on longevity, look, and other individual characteristics:
- Asphalt Roof
One of the most popular roofs and chosen by roughly 80% of homeowners, asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material. Whether it is their inexpensive up-front cost, easy installation, or availability of shapes and textures, asphalt shingles are perfect for roofs.
Advantages:
- Good fire resistance
- Good wind resistance
- Moderate in weight
- Compatible with a variety of slope types
Disadvantages:
- Not eco-friendly
- Not durable
- Mildew is a common problem
- Requires periodic maintenance
- Plastic Polymer Roof
Another popular roofing material that attracts homeowners is plastic polymer. Mostly made of recycled plastic, plastic polymer is perfect for older homes that need extra durability.
Advantages:
- Durable and low-maintenance
- Lightweight
- Good fire resistance
- Good wind resistance
- Easy to install
- Offers easy snow and ice removal
- Produces no granules like asphalt
- Well suited for water collection
Disadvantages:
- Not compatible with weightier models
- Expensive than asphalt
- Fewer insulation capabilities
- Wooden Shakes Roof
Unlike asphalt, concrete, and other materials, wooden shakes are an odd choice. Wooden shakes are traditionally used in upscale homes because of their attractive and inviting appearance. Typically, cedar is used for making wooden shakes.
Advantages:
- All-natural materials
- Recyclable
- Affordable
- Environment-friendly
- Energy-efficient
- Sturdy
- Easy to repair
Disadvantages:
- Low fire resistance
- Shorter lifespan
- Require more maintenance
- More expensive
- Vulnerable to pests
- Susceptible to moisture
- Metal Roofs
In recent years, metal roofing has gained massive popularity amongst homeowners because of its longevity and minimal maintenance. Be it steel or copper, metal roofs beat out conventional roofing materials in many ways.
Advantages:
- Lightweight
- Recyclable
- Durable
- Good resistance to fire
- Wind resistant
- Environment-friendly
- Easy to install
- Stands up to tornadoes and hurricanes
- Suitable for low-pitched roofs
Disadvantages:
- Very expensive
- Makes noise during rain or hailstorm
- Inconsistency of color match
- Requires more maintenance
- Metal can dent
- Modifying panels can be difficult
- Doesn’t look nice or attractive
- Concrete Roof
Concrete roofs are popular in Philadelphia because of their high-resistance abilities. Made of sand, cement, and water, concrete is a solid and durable material, popular in modern homes.
Advantages:
- Long-lasting
- Durable
- Excellent fire resistance
- Less expensive
- Cost-effective
- High impact resistance
Disadvantages:
- Cracks and breaks in heavy winds
- Susceptible to water absorption
- Requires more maintenance
- Can lead to mildew
- Heavyweight
- Clay Tile Roof
After asphalt, tile is the most common material considered for roof building worldwide. The tile roofs are typically made up of terracotta and slate. Other modern materials used in tile roofing include metal, plastic, clay, and even concrete.
Advantages:
- Fire resistant
- Long lifespan
- Energy-efficient
- Gives a Spanish or Italian appearance
- Weather-resistant
- Low maintenance
- Insulation
Disadvantages:
- Highly expensive
- Heavyweight
- Requires more maintenance
Choose Top Tier Philly for Your Roofing Needs
If you think that your roof needs a replacement or repair, contact Top Tier Roofing to find the best roofing contractor in Philadelphia. Our contractors are experienced, licensed, and provide all types of roofing solutions.
Whether it is roof replacement, roof repair, gutter installation, shingle installation, or siding installation, we handle different residential and commercial projects with same commitment and reliability.
If you live in Philadelphia, choose any one of these six roofing materials based on your needs, budget, and preferences. To know more you can call (267) 485-6257 and speak to our roofing experts today.
