We only notice our roofs when there’s a problem.
Your roof, however, is the one that’s protecting all we care about inside our homes. Traditional asphalt shingles have reigned supreme for centuries, but they do have some negatives—relatively short lives, poor aesthetic options, and disposal problems.
But there are other options..
In this article, let’s go through other roof coverings like tile, metal, and slate offering homeowners more durable, sustainable, and attractive options. Not only will these materials better shield the house, but they can transform its appearance and worth.
Tile Roofing: Durability Meets Elegance
Two general types of tile roofing include clay and concrete. Although centuries old, the use of clay tiles can be replaced by the same benefits offered by concrete tiles at an inexpensive price.
The benefits of tile roofing are worthwhile to consider:
- Matchless durability – Roof tiles enjoy 50-100 years of life, outlasting asphalt shingles by decades.
- Improved energy efficiency – Natural thermal qualities help to keep homes cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.
- Stunning variety – Mediterranean barrel tiles, streamlined modern profiles, and more, tiles change the look of a home.
- Increased property value – The stylish appearance and longevity of tile roofing enhance resale value.
There are several things you need to keep in mind before choosing tile. It is more expensive upfront than asphalt—typically $10,000 to $25,000 for the typical house. It requires structural inspection. Your home will need extra support to handle the weight. It’s not the type of project to be DIY and must be installed by professionals.
Metal Roofing: Modern Protection
Metal roofing is much more advanced than the corrugated barn panels you see driving through the countryside. There are currently aluminum, steel, and copper options, each with benefits.
Why use metal for the house?
Metal roofs last for 40-70 years with minimal maintenance. They do not trap the sun’s rays but radiate them, lowering the cooling bill by 25%. At the conclusion of their extended lifespan, metal roofing materials can be 100% recycled, unlike asphalt shingles that go into landfill waste.
Are there any disadvantages? Some homeowners worry about noise during rain or hail. More recent installation techniques with solid sheathing and insulation reduce this. Metal roofs will dent when hit by large hail stones or branches, although most makers make impact-proof versions available.
Roofing industry experts confirm metal roofing has seen spectacular growth for use in homes due to such benefits.
Slate Roofing: Timeless Elegance
Slate is the last resort roofing material. Natural stone provides an unrivaled, classy appearance that becomes increasingly handsome with the passing years.
Why is slate desirable?
There is no comparison to slate’s longevity—these roofs routinely outlast 100 years, with some lasting over 150 years of service. Slate will not burn, making it one of the most fire-resistant materials one can utilize. Each slate roof has natural color and texture variations that provide it with an unmatched aesthetic that is an enhancement to architectural features.
The cons? Slate is the highest cost initially, usually $15,000 to $30,000 or more. It takes special material and skill to repair, and that will cost. It requires structural reinforcement for most houses because of the utter weight.
Innovative Alternative
The roofing trade continues to evolve with new and exciting options.
Solar tiles are integrated into the roof because they generate electricity. Unlike traditional solar panels mounted on the top of old roofs, the two-in-one solution is an entirely new substitute for traditional materials. It shields the house and reduces the cost of electricity production.
Green roofs with vegetation are especially valuable, especially in the city. They insulate, filter rain, provide wildlife habitat, and fight the heat island effect. Sustainable city planning is making them priority, according to the US Dept of Energy.
Making the Right Decision for Your Home
How to make the most appropriate alternative choice? Consider the following most important factors:
- Climate and geography – Your weather in the region will dictate what to use. Metal would be fine for snowy climates, and tile would be for hot weather.
- Home styles – Certain kinds of material suit particular kinds of styles. Slate suits Colonial and Victorian styles, and tile suits Mediterranean styles.
- Budgeting for reality – Weigh upfront expenses against future value. More expensive materials generally return more via longevity and less frequent need for maintenance.
- Local codes – Some materials are prohibited in certain locations, or particular installation methods have to be employed. Investigate the requirements beforehand.
Expert consultation is crucial in the process. Experienced roofing contractors can assess your home’s structural integrity, recommend appropriate materials, and ensure proper installation. At Roof Secured, we treat each home on an individual basis so we can provide tailored recommendations.
Why Choose Roof Secured?
More than 10 years of roofing knowledge go into every project we tackle in Lexington and throughout central Kentucky. We utilize specialty roofing materials that provide the absolute best in performance and beauty.
Our fixed price upfront prevents surprises—you’ll know exactly what to expect before we begin work. We’re family- and veteran-owned with the mission of creating a better community through great work.
Do not take our word for it. Our over 25 five-star Google reviews inform you of our dedication to making every project a success.
The Future of Roofing
The roofing market is evolving. Trends are moving towards increased demand for durable, sustainable materials with homeowners gaining awareness about the environmental cost of frequent re-roofing.
New technologies like integrated solar tiles and more advanced green roof technologies are gaining more popularity. They offer the benefits with energy production and environmental gain.
Looking beyond asphalt shingles allows for a whole new possibility to open to your home. Tile, metal, and slate roofing materials offer increased longevity, better looks, and increased sustainability. While costing more upfront, their added longevity and lower maintenance needs offer savings in the long run.
Ready to talk about your choices?
Contact us for a free quote and discover how alternative roofing materials can transform your home. Our team at Roof Secured will guide you through the selection process and ensure flawless installation.
Additional Resources
Want to learn more? Check out these helpful resources:
- View our completed projects to see examples of alternative roofing materials in action
- Discover our company values and commitment to quality
- Browse our testimonials from satisfied homeowners
