Roofing Material
Replacing your roof is one of the largest investments you will make for your home. The type of roofing material you want to use is one of the factors to take into consideration when replacing your roof. There are several different types of materials to choose from. Some materials tend to be more common in some areas, while other materials are specific to your roof pitch (or slope).
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles come in two different types: fiberglass and organic. To make fiberglass shingles, manufacturers will take woven fiberglass and cover it with a waterproof asphalt coating with ceramic granules on top. These granules help protect the roof material from harmful UV rays. Roofs will need less asphalt to give the shingles their durability due to the fiberglass base. They are lighter and thinner and have a higher fire rating than the organic type.
The traditional type of asphalt shingles are known as organic based shingles. They are made from a recycled layer of felt paper and have an adhesive asphalt coating where the ceramic granules are embedded. These shingles are heavier and thicker and more costly. Asphalt shingles are considered more durable than the fiberglass type, however since they are more absorbent they can tend to warp over time. Either the fiberglass or the organic asphalt shingles can be either three-tab shingles or architect shingles. They also come in a variety of styles and colors.
Wood Shingles and Shakes
The wood used for wood shingle and shakes are most often from spruce, cedar or treated pine. Wood roofing is popular for older homes and homes based upon historical styles.
Wood shingles are machine cut while wood shakes are hand split on one side. If you are looking for a more rustic look, wood shakes are the way to go. This type of roofing material is susceptible to discoloration but they do last about as long as asphalt (up to 30 years). Wood shingles and shakes require treatments with preservatives to keep them from drying out or warping. Fungicides are also needed to stop the mildew and fungus that can occur.
Slate Shingles
Slate roofing has been popular mostly with high end homes due to its cost. Part of the high cost is due to the shingles being shaped by hand which to meet any size requirement. These shingles will add beauty and durability to your home and is one of the longer lasting roofing material. Some slate shingle roofs will last over 90 years. It is available in a variety of colors and textures. Slate is durable, waterproof and non-combustible. In addition, fungus will not affect a slate roof. Slate shingles are considered to be a low maintenance roof and will also add to your resale value should you ever sell your home.
Metal Roofing Material
Metal roofing is one of the fastest growing types of roofs for residential homes. These types of roofs offer high durability under harsh weather conditions and outlast many other types of materials. Metal roofing materials consist of steel, aluminum or copper. Steel sheets have a metallic coating which prevents rust and then a baked on paint finish is applied. Aluminum sheets do not need the metallic coating but they do need the paint finish. Copper needs neither since it will not corrode. Metal roofs are lightweight and are often recyclable.
Tile Roofing
Mostly found in warm climates, tile roofs are made of fired clay or concrete. The individual tiles are molded into shape, most commonly a barrel shape. Since tiles are heavier than other roofing materials, the roof framing needs to be strong enough to support the load. The tiles are laid one by one and can be very labor intensive. Authentic tile roofs are more expensive but the beauty and durability of the finished product is well worth the cost. Clay tiles are more colorful than concrete and can last up to 100 years.
Membrane Roofing Materials
The use of membrane roofing products are for flat roofs. There are many types of products in this category. The most common materials used are synthetic rubber, modified bitumen or thermoplastic. On a flat roof you will want to have as few as possible seams to block any water from seeping its way through.
Using rubber for a flat roof will save on costs but will give up the strength of the seams. Modified bitumen materials are made up of asphalt and rubber modifiers. These materials are used as a multi ply roofing. These layers consist of a base layer, a ply overlap and then a granule top surface. Thermoplastic materials, the most common being PVC, are strong and durable. Seams are heat welded and form a watertight bond. PVC membrane is also energy efficient.
New Roofing In Winter Garden, FL
Winter Garden Roof will begin by providing you with a free home estimate of what the cost will be for your roof replacement. Our experienced installers will be sure all of the existing roofing material is removed and properly disposed of. We guarantee that your new roof will be made with the highest quality materials and will be installed professionally.
When it comes to replacing your roof, Winter Garden Roof is here to work with you to make sure you get the results you want with your new roof. We understand that the investment of a new roof is important to you and we are here to provide experience and knowledge to help you make the right choice. Give us a call today and let the professionals take care of your new roof.