Choosing Which Roofing Material to Use for Your Home
By: Chris Lontok


Composite Shingles

Composite shingles are made of asphalt. The base material can be made of organic fibre mat or fibreglass core. With their adhesive backing, composite shingles are easy to install. Nails, staples or tacks are used to attach them to the roof. If you live in an area common to hurricanes and rainstorms, then this roofing material is the choice for you. But make sure to add some roofing cement to secure the roof. Shingles are currently the most popular choice of material for roofs in the US. Roofers find the material easy to install and durable. They could last about 30 to 50 years, given that they are reinforced once in a while. Also, roofing contractors and manufacturers have come up with shingles that are resistant to mold and algae growth, which means longer life for your roof.

You can pair composite shingles with almost any type of gutter?from galvanized to wooden gutters.

Metal Roofing

No roofing material has as much variety in price and type as metal roofing. It can feature galvanised iron or lead on a low-cost barn, or it can take the form of elegant copper on royal homes and majestic museums. It can easily be installed as sheets or shingles, both of which are suitable for steep roofs. Mechanically seamed metal, on the other hand, is ideal for gentle slopes. Contrary to the natural property of metal, metal roofing does not absorb too much heat, making it very ideal for tropical areas such as Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater and Lutz. Those who live in places with occasional thunderstorms can feel safe with a roof covered with a metal sheet because of its ability to disperse lightning. It is non-flammable, too. Metal roofing also appeals to home owners because of its low cost and aesthetic appeal, although one usually has to choose from either of these two factors. The more attractive materials are also more expensive. Metal roofing is probably the cheapest roofing material available in the market today. Roofing companies guarantee 50 years of a secure roof for your home if you choose this material.

Tile and Slate Roofing

Roof tiles are usually made of slate, glazed ceramic and baked clay, and they top all the other roofing materials in terms of age and weight. They have been used to cover the tops of houses in ancient eras, much longer than the other types that we have discussed. Two factors discourage people from using tiles and slates?weight and price. Due to their heaviness, roofers must first ensure that your house has stronger roof and wall to support structure. They are also much more expensive than most materials. Traditional homes and mansions usually have slate roofing. If your aim is for the classic look, then this is your choice. Its best features are they are fire-resistant and sturdy, lasting for generations. They withstand snow and hail, moisture and heat. Termites are not able to build a home on these types of roofs. Most noticeably, they are beautiful. Japanese temples have been elaborately topped with tiles, and so have the famous Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore of Florence in Italy and the Sydney Opera House in Australia.

Seamless metal gutters should pair off with slates very well. You will need highly skilled roofers or roofing contractors to properly install this material.

For roofing services, roofing contractors, or general contractors, try Beacon Construction Services. They are a roofing company that services the areas of Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and Lutz.


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