What are the different types of roofing materials?

How many types of roofing materials are there?

​There may be more than you realize. It is always smart to know the different options and the benefits of each one before your next roofing project. 
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In addition to different looks and styles, these 8 types of material for your roof vary in cost and benefits.

​Asphalt Shingles

Shingles are made of different types of materials, but those made of asphalt are the most common roofing material in the U.S. This is because they are great in all weather conditions. 

Not all shingles are made the same, so it is important you get quality shingles that can withstand high winds and durability tests. There are also impact resistant shingles which are more resistant to hail (which is good for Killeen since we have strong storms!).

You should replace shingles every 20 years or so. Signs that your shingles are starting to age include:

• Curled Edges
• Cracked Shingles
• Missing Granules

It is best to err on the side of caution because you never want water damage which can cost you an arm and a leg- plus you would still need to repair your roof. Water can destroy your irreplaceable valuables, furniture, or even the structure of your house. 

If you have any doubt that your shingles are in good shape to protect you from the next storm, it is best to contact a local Killeen roofer to evaluate them.

Solar Tiles

Every 100 feet of solar tiles will generate a kilowatt of energy and can be installed seamlessly with existing conventional roofing materials. They are manufactured to look like tiles or shingles in a variety of different styles to match any home. 

If you need to replace your roof anyways, this is a good option to consider to offset energy costs while keeping a style you desire. 

Metal Roofs

Metal roofs are extremely durable and can last as long as 60 years. Not only that, but metal protects against heavy rain and snow and, obviously, will not burn so a fire cannot spread through the house as quickly.

High winds often blow shingles off a roof, but metal will resist this so you do not have to make minor repairs to your roof every time a strong storm hits. 

Some people hate it, but I actually love the sound of rain pouring and rattling against a metal roof. If you are considering metal roofing, know that it typically costs more than asphalt shingles. Lastly, different materials corrode at different rates. 

Stone-Coated Steel

Another durable roofing material is steel that has been coated in stone. This material can be manufactured to resemble slate, clay, or traditional shingles.

Stone-Coated Steel can withstand strong winds and heavy rains like metal roofs and some even come with a lifetime warranty. For the price, this is a great choice for North Central Texas.

Slate

Slate is waterproof, fireproof, and lasts over 100 years. Slate is great for some regions, but not so good if you get hail because it can break easily. 

Slate also costs more than some traditional roofing materials, but may be great for you depending on your needs.

Like common slate materials, rubber slate can last a century and can be very durable against water and fire, but can be broken easily by hail or even roofing contractors that need to walk along them.

Tiles

Clay and concrete tiles can withstand strong storms, high winds, and even tornados. They are also good in warm and dry climates. The downside is that, like slate, they can break easily when someone has to walk on them.

Green Roofs

A green roof is sometimes called a living roof because it is made out of living vegetation planted over a waterproofing layer. They do require additional structural support, insulation, water filtration systems, and more. 

Green roofs look beautiful and unique and can help to insulate your home while also reducing water runoff and improving the quality of the air we breathe. Green roofs should last around 40 years. 

Built-Up Roofing

Built-up roofing is for flat roofs only and is made up of materials such as asphalt or tar that are then covered with aggregate. If you have a flat roof that experienced a lot of foot traffic, we recommend using tar or gravel. Built-up roofing lasts 20 to 25 years. 

Now that you are aware of the different types of materials, it is a good idea to look at homes around the area, talk to friends and neighbors, and ask questions about Roofing companies to find which material suits your budget, your climate, and your home’s aesthetics.