A roof is something we all have. It is the first line of defense between our house, apartment, business, or retail space against the weather. If your roof fails, your house is open to the elements, which can cause extensive damage, mold, and a variety of other problems that can be expensive and time consuming to fix. Keeping a roof at its best means choosing the best roofing materials for not only your home’s architecture and the curb appeal, but also the weather.
Depending on where you live, roofing materials can be as diverse as slate, tile, wood, or the most popular; asphalt shingles. In the Southwest of the United States for instance, tile roofs are the norm, as they soak up the heat from the sun and keep the interior cool and dry. But if you live in a climate like those of us in Pennsylvania who see extremes of heat and cold on a yearly basis you will need a heavy duty roof to keep your house and its contents safe.
We need roofing materials that last a long time, that have a good warranty against damage, and that not only look good but are capable of passing all the building and fire codes to boot. It is not a coincidence then that asphalt shingles are what many opt for. They are the cheapest, they are easy to install and they come with a long warranty. They are made for winters and summers alike and hold up well to the elements. They also come in a vast array of colors and styles from simple 3 Tab to the more modern look of Architectural Shingles.
Stone or slate roofing materials are all natural and non-absorbent, meaning that rain, snow, slush, and the like simply roll off without penetrating the stone. These roofs can last for generations. The downside to slate or stone is that it is heavy, with most homes not being able to support its weight without additional support structures built in. Today, engineered slate is used which is about one third of the weight of traditional slate and cheaper as well, all while giving that sophisticated and timeless look to your home.
Wood shake, rubber, felt, and even metal are now all being used as roofing materials. To figure out what is best for you, schedule your free estimate today with us at Greenawalt Roofing Company! We can be reached by phone at 717-898-6000 or on our website at https://www.greenawaltroofing.com/contact.