Different Roofing Materials Explained for Belpre, OH Homeowners
Did you know there are many different kinds of roofing materials—not just asphalt shingles. Each material has a different look, feel, and performance.
At Klaus Roofing of Ohio, we want our customers to be as knowledgable about roofs as we are, so we want you to know what's available and what's best for your home. We'll also talk about what we would recommend.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most commonly used roofing materials, and every single shingle matters when it comes to installation. They are usually made with an organic or fiberglass base and crafted into 3-tab or architectural shingles.
Organic shingles are made with felt or paper and then coated in asphalt to make them water-resistant. Organic shingles tend to contain roughly 40% more asphalt than fiberglass shingles, making them thick, durable, and extremely heavy. Due to their weight, they usually last longer than fiberglass shingles and are more likely to stay put during storms. They typically last 20 years or more, but are prone to fire damage, absorbing water, and warping. Fiberglass mats do not absorb asphalt as much, so they tend to be less durable; however, they are more water-resistant and have better fire protection.
3-tab shingles have a single, flat layer, making them lighter and difficult for the wind to pick-up; however, they are more susceptible to tearing if the wind gets underneath them. They can only handle 60 to 80mph wind gusts and don't last as long as architectural shingles.
Architectural shingles have two layers, creating a more dimensional and aesthetically-pleasing appearance. They can handle wind gusts from 110 to 130 mph, and last 30 to 50 years with proper maintenance.
Composite Shingles
Composite shingles are made from polymer-based products and tend to be lightweight, fire-safe, and warrantied for up to 50 years. They are heat, impact, moss, and UV resistant, but can be prone to absorbing water.
Rubber
Rubber roofs are best for flat or low pitched roofs and can be installed in rolls or shingles. If they are correctly installed and cared for, they can last 20 to 35 years.
Metal
Metal roofs can last 50 to 75 years and reflect, rather than absorb, sunlight. They aren't prone to leaking, but the roof has to be a certain rise, also known as pitch, for the structure to support it.
Green Roofs & Solar Roofs
Green roofs act as a garden on your roof. While this may seem enticing, it requires lots of time, effort, and maintenance. They perform best in areas with heavy rainfall and can be an excellent insulator for the home and improve nearby air quality.
Solar roofs are relatively new and are known to withstand highspeed hail and last 20 to 25 years. It's best to install them on the south side of the roof for maximum efficiency.
Slate
Slate is one of the longest-lasting roofing materials, lasting anywhere from 50 to 200 years. It is heat, hail, moisture resistant, and non-combustible, but you will need extra roof framing to carry its weight. It does an excellent job of keeping a consistent temperature and experiences very few leaks, even in old age.
Clay, Concrete, and Copper Tiles
Clay tiles are non-combustible and non-fading but require extra framing. They last 50 to 100 years and are very energy efficient.
Concrete tiles reflect sunlight and insulate the interior from the hot and cold, but also require extra framing.
Copper tiles or shingles are light and can last 100s of years with hardly any maintenance.
Wood
Wood roofs are vulnerable to fire damage, rot, hail, and termites. They can last 20 to 25 years or 30 to 40 with proper and regular maintenance.
Put a Klaus on Your House!
At Klaus Roofing of Ohio, we specialize in asphalt shingles - specifically IKO brand asphalt shingles. They are a family-owned company and produce quality shingles made to last. If you need a roof repair, replacement, or just want to learn more about how we can put a Klaus on YOUR house, give us a call at 1-614-696-6440 or click here for a FREE ESTIMATE!
