For the last forty years we have been committed to serving the Tri State Area’s roofing needs, by providing high-quality and affordable repairs, installation, and maintenance services. If you are in need or repairs or have questions visit our Contact Page. We offer FREE estimates, and $100 off any roofing service over $1000. If you have more urgent problems that need to be addressed immediately, you can call our 24/7 emergency service hotline at 267-343-8469.
That being said, it may be hard to identify an issue if you do not understand the different types of common roofing materials. That’s why we saw fit to compare and contrast these types of roofing in regards to their cost, durability, lifespan, and other essential qualities you should know. Read further to learn more.
Asphalt
Asphalt composites are relatively cheap, available in diverse color palettes, and are fairly priced. The majority of roofing products fall under the asphalt umbrella, but there are differentiating factors you should account for. Typically, asphalt shingles are composed of a fiberglass interior surrounded by an asphalt and ceramic exterior. It’s recommended that asphalt roofing is installed by professionals however, it is not an impossible task for experienced D.I.Y.ers.
Depending on the quality of the materials, the layering, and how often they’re maintained, the lifespan of asphalt shingles can last 15 to 50 years. The average price for installation of asphalt is $11,000 for a 2,000 square foot home. When maintaining shingles, inspect the roofing for overgrowth and other debris, remove them. If you notice moss, mildew, or other discoloration, carefully apply a bleach solution to expunge the tiles of them. Pure asphalt roll roofs are not effective home roofing options in the long term: with a 5 to 10 year lifespan, they’re better suited for smaller scale shed, garage, or porch roofs.
Wood
Typically, roofers employ cedar as a reliable, rot-resistant wood for construction, and they’re typically employed in two forms: shingles and shakes. Unlike asphalt, the installation of a wooden roof should be left to a professional.
Shakes a thicker, more robust form of roofing than shingles. Wood shakes withstand weather better than wood shingles and therefore, come in at a higher price. Across an average 2000 square foot home, cedar shingles will cost around $19,800 for installation, whereas cedar shakes will run around $26,000 to install.
Both have a similar lifespan range (approx. 35-50 years), and like asphalt, they regular maintenance. Another vulnerability that comes with wooden roofing is fire hazards. If you’re in an area with a hot and dry climate with constant forest fires, you should steer clear of using wood shingles or shakes.
Metal
Metal roofing construction is becoming increasingly popular due to their 30-75 year lifespan, requiring little maintenance after installation, and are both lightweight and durable. While the installation should be performed by a professional, checking for bent or damaged metal paneling is up to the homeowner. If you’re looking to instal metal roofing you’re looking at a price of $22,000 for every 2,000 square feet.
Slates
Slates are a form of stone roof that is made of pure stone slabs cut from mined rocks, making them one of the most durable, resilient roofing options on the market. If you want roofing that will withstand a centuries-long test of time and that will remain resistant to fire and rot then you can’t go wrong with slate. When it comes to the installation, for the highest quality roofing on the market, you’ll want the highest quality roofing contractors on the market who will be capable of meeting the task.
A typical installation will run people an investment around $66,000 per 2,00 square feet, which is why you typically see slate roofing installed on larger, upscale homes. Slate tiles, like any stone, are also prone to erosion from wind, water, and walking on them, so they may be unsuitable for areas with rainy or wintry weather extremes, but ultimately, no matter which roofing you choose, selection is a matter of personal preference.
