February
21
Figuring out what to put over your head
Have you come to the important realization that it’s finally time for a roof replacement? If so, we’d like to start by saying that’s a smart move on your part. Too many homeowners make the mistake of trying to put off a needed roof replacement, and end up paying an even higher price in terms of having to deal with unnecessary water damage that was completely preventable. So for your proactive insight, we say congratulations!
Choosing which roofing materials are best for the job is one of the first decisions you’ll need to make. And with modern roofing materials technology, you have no shortage of options to consider. Even if you have a shingle roof now, you certainly aren’t limited to using shingles for your roof replacement. How to decide which roof is best for you? Use this helpful overview from your friends at Skywalker Roofing to learn more about the features and benefits of various residential roofing materials available today.
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Some residential roofing materials worth considering
⇒ Asphalt shingles
Asphalt shingles are still the most popular roofing material in America. They’re known to be affordable, relatively easy to install, and come in a variety of color combinations. And higher-end architectural shingles can be expected to last significantly longer than standard 3-tab shingles. In addition, shingle roofs can be a little easier to repair than some other types of roofing materials.
⇒ Wood shakes
Wood shakes are manufactured from several types of lumber, with western red cedar being the most popular. Shakes are split from real logs, and then shaped by roofing manufacturers for commercial use. Wood shakes have been mounted to roofs for centuries, and are prized for their more natural look. Today’s shakes are also treated with preservatives and retardants to make them less susceptible to both fire and decay. People also like the eco-friendliness of using a renewable resource to cover their roof – trees!
⇒ Clay tiles
Clay tiles are made from earthen clays formed into repeating shapes, which are then fired for durability. These tiles are noted for reliable protection against sun, precipitation, high winds, and all sorts of extreme weather. Clay tile isn’t cheap, but it can easily last you up to 50 years, or more. Clay typically needs less maintenance than other roofing materials, too. One drawback to note with clay is that it adds more weight to your roof, often requiring extra reinforcements to be added to your roof’s supporting infrastructure.
⇒ Concrete tiles
Concrete tile performs similarly to clay tile, and will last just as long. One advantage of concrete is that it’s a cheaper alternative to clay. Concrete also comes in a greater variety of profiles and color options than clay, too. On the other hand, concrete tile is actually heavier than clay, so extra roof reinforcements will almost certainly be needed. And concrete tile does require some routine maintenance, since concrete has a natural tendency to absorb water.
⇒ Slate
Slate is one of the most beautiful, most durable types of residential roofing material there is. It’s essentially waterproof, pest-proof, and a fire-resistant material. Granted, slate is expensive to purchase and work with, but it will maintain its natural beauty and performance value for a very long time. In fact, a slate roof will likely be the only roof you’ll ever need to have installed, as long as you’re careful to repair any pieces which may become broken along the way. Not all roofing contractors have the tools or experience for handling slate properly, but a pro like Skywalker can certainly take care of your slate roofing needs.
⇒ Metal
Metal is the fastest-growing area of the residential roofing market, and for a good reason. Metal is much more lightweight than other roofing materials (including asphalt shingles) while still being incredibly resistant to sun, wind, rain, snow, and fire. Metal roofs are also less expensive than slate or certain tile options, and don’t require any additional roof infrastructure reinforcements. And thanks to metal’s natural reflectivity, a metal roof can make your home more energy-efficient, too.
⇒ Flat and low slope roofing
Flat and low slope roofs are popular for commercial applications, but also work well for certain residential applications. Flat and low slope roofs are generally economical to install, and can also allow for some additional multipurpose use of your roof surface. Some of the most popular flat roofing material options include EPDM membrane, PVC membrane, and modified bitumen cap sheet roofing.
⇒ Synthetic roofing
Last but not least, you should be aware of the benefits of synthetic roofing materials, too. For example, DaVinci Roofscapes offers products made with virgin resins, which can be fashioned to closely mimic the look of either slate or cedar. In terms of color and texture, you honestly can’t tell the difference, and synthetic roofing is made to be more durable with less needed maintenance. DaVinci synthetic roofing also comes with a lifetime warranty that’s good for up to 50 years!
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Partner with the right residential roofing contractors
Choosing the right roofing material is important, but that’s really only half the battle. You need to find the right roofers who can do the job right, too. And if you’re looking for a trusted roofing contractor in North Carolina or Virginia, Skywalker Roofing is the only name you need to know.
We’re experts in working with every popular roofing material, including asphalt shingles, standing seam metal roofs, slate, tile, wood shakes, flat roofs, and synthetic roofing too. Basically, if it’s a material you’d like to see on your roof, Skywalker can make it happen for you, and we do it better than anyone else.
Our team is proud to serve the NC Piedmont Triad, Piedmont Triangle, Lake Norman area, and southern VA up to Roanoke. Skywalker Roofing can roof any type of home or business structure, and we’ve been doing it for twenty years. But don’t just take our word for being the best – check out our nearly one thousand five-star reviews on Guild Quality!
Give us a call today at +1 (336) 627-5596, and let’s schedule your free personal consultation. Experience the Skywalker difference for yourself!
