When a homeowner decides to replace their old, worn roof, they usually focus on the material they want to use. The type of roofing material you select will have a major impact on the lifespan and look of your new roof, as well as your home's overall curb appeal. In this article, we'll walk you through the various types of roofing materials that are available today and help you choose the right one for your home.
Roofing Materials That Are Perfect For Historic Homes
When replacing a roof on your historic home, you may want to choose a material that looks similar or matches the style and details of the original roof. There are many options for modern homeowners to match historical roofs, from clay tile to slate to metal shingles.
If you are looking for a traditional and natural feel to your roof, wood is the way to go. You can have shakes or shingles made from either redwood cedar, pine, or composites to give your home a rustic, traditional look that's both stylish and functional.
A variety of shingle styles are available to suit your home's architecture and budget, including architectural shingles, which are thicker and longer than three-tab shingles to create a layered texture on your roof. Typically more expensive than three-tab shingles, architectural shingles are also stronger and can last 15 to 30 years, depending on the quality of the product you choose.
Shakes are thin, wedge-shaped slabs of wood that can be hand-cut to give your roof a more rustic and authentic look. They are an affordable option for homeowners who don't want to break the bank on a roof replacement, costing about $4.50 to $9 per square foot installed, and can be done by any skilled mason.
Faux Slate is another great choice for homeowners who want a classic look. It is a manufactured material that resembles real slate, but costs much less and does not require as much installation time. However, it's not quite as durable as real slate.
Metal Roofing is a great option for homeowners who want a strong, lightweight roofing material. It is an excellent option for steep slopes and can be embossed to look like wood shingles or clay tiles, making it a versatile, inexpensive and long-lasting roof choice.
Copper was a popular roofing material in the United States in the early 1800s and is still used today on churches and government buildings. This is an affordable and durable option for a flat or low-sloped roof, and it can be embossed to look like clay tiles, wooden shingles or even slate.
For a flat roof, rubber is another popular choice for homeowners on a budget. This is a durable, low-maintenance option that's often made from engineered polymers mixed with recycled rubber. This material is environmentally friendly, and it's considered to be a great alternative to asphalt shingles or ceramic or clay tile.
If you are considering a metal roof, make sure it is certified for your climate zone. If it is, you can be confident that it will protect your home from the elements and fires, and it will also add to the value of your home.
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