Common Roofing Materials
There are many different roofing materials that roofing contractors use during construction. Depending on the building, its location and environment, the roofing materials can vary. Roofing contractors use some roofing materials more frequently in Connecticut than others.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are one of the most common roofing materials used on houses in Connecticut and throughout America today. They are also one of the most inexpensive roofing options available. This Old House (http://www.thisoldhouse.com) writes that asphalt shingles today are typically guaranteed to last for 20 or 30 years. They are available in different colors as well.
Asphalt shingles come as standard three-tab shingles, or as architectural shingles. Standard three-tab shingles are more common. Architectural shingles are twice as thick and have layers to give it a different look.
Wood Shingles
The look of a wood shingle roof can add a dramatic, sophisticated and rustic look to any Connecticut home. Not only do the colors start off strong, but when the wood is weathered over time it blends more into the landscape and gives off a vintage feel. Roofing contractors use several different types of wood for wood shingles including Western Red Cedar, Alaskan Yellow Cedar and Eastern White Cedar.
Wood shingles can vary in width but are usually cut to the same thickness. This Old House writes that because wood roofs need to breath they should be attached on top of a substrate so that air can circulate beneath them. They also would need some maintenance fairly regularly to get rid of mildew or moss that could grow. But if you take good care of a wood roof it could last 30 to 50 years.
Slate Roofs
Slate is used more often in the northeast because it can adequately shed ice and snow. However, it is used more for expensive homes and municipal buildings because of its high cost. It can last for generations, but is not used that much today. Slate is heavy so it needs to be used on a stronger roof structure.
Some roofs can also use fabricated slate-like materials made from recycled rubber and plastic. They cost less and are lighter, and can last about 50 years, but This Old House warns that a discerning eye might be able to tell the difference between engineered slate and a real slate roof.
Metal Roofs
A metal roof can be found most often on barns, sheds or other utility buildings because it is easy to install, inexpensive and is rugged enough to last a long time. Metal roofs can be used in areas that get a lot of snow, or in agriculturally centered communities. Types of metal roofs range from galvanized low-end metal to high-end copper. Cooper roofs have an elegant look and can be used on mansions or public buildings. This Old House writes that no matter the style, a properly installed metal roof could last 50 years.
Ceramic Roofs
Ceramic tile roofs are more common in European areas around the Mediterranean Ocean, but they can also be found in Mediterranean-influenced houses in parts of the United States such as Florida and California. The type of ceramic tile you'll find most often on houses is the barrel tile, which is a half cylinder that's about 16 inches long.
These roofs can be very heavy, though, so the house must be strong enough to hold it up. This Old House writes that making a ceramic tile roof is very labor-intensive and also quite expensive. High-quality clay roof tiles can also be expensive as they are hard-fired to avoid absorbing moisture and freezing. These expensive roof tiles can be worth it, though, because they have been known to last 60 to 80 years.
Find out more about different roofing materials by contacting one of our Connecticut roofing contractors today!
