All You Need to Know about Roofing Materials

The roof is one of the most important parts of your home. Especially in the Philadelphia area, where it is the barrier between you and the rain, snow and whatever else eastern Pennsylvania weather has to throw at you. Because of this you need to make sure your roof is in top shape. What should your roof be made out of? Let’s take a look at some of the common roofing materials and what might be best for your home.

Slate Roofs

Slate is a stone that is mined from quarries and cut into slabs that are used on your roof. Instead of being glued down on the roof, slate is hung by nails. This means that there is some amount of skill needed to install a slate roof. Slate roofs can last for many years and are capable of handling all that the wind, rain and snow can throw at them. They are more costly than other roofing materials simply because they are rarer and require a skilled craftsperson to install them. Your roof structure must also be able to handle the weight of the slate. They typically run from $10 to $20 per square foot.

Asphalt Shingles

One of the most common and most popular roofing materials, asphalt shingles or composition shingles are probably what you are most used to seeing on Philadelphia homes. This type is one of the most cost-effective roofing choices, costing from $2 to $4 on average. Asphalt shingles are made of sheets of fiberglass with asphalt on the top and the bottom. Rocks are imbedded into the shingle to protect it from the sun. Asphalt shingles typically last about 20 years before they need to be replaced and must be periodically cleaned to remove algae, moss and other dirt that collects on them.

Wood Shingles and Shakes

One of the most attractive roofing materials, wood roofing is very common in dryer climates. While this type is a fire hazard unless properly treated, it can be a long-lasting roofing choice that remains viable for up to fifty years if well taken care of. In some wet climates these shingles need to be stained and cleaned regularly due to the buildup of moss or algae on them. They can also be damaged by hail and high winds. Wood shingles run from $5 to $12, landing them in the moderate price range.

Steel or Metal Roofing

Once very popular, metal and steel roofing is seeing a comeback in some areas. Typically this type of roofing is found on farms and commercial properties, but the use of materials like copper or brass provide vibrant color options for homes and home owners looking to make a statement. This type is very long lasting, in some cases coming with lifetime warranties, and also offers excellent protection. Steel or metal roofing can be more expensive, depending on the materials chosen and can run between $3.50 and $11 per square foot.

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