It’s time to have a new roofing system installed on top of your home, but which system really is the best? Ask a handful of people and you’ll get a handful of answers; ask experts and you’ll also likely receive conflicting information. If you are not too concerned about aesthetics, the primary concern should be longevity. After all, if you select a system that lasts long enough, you’ll never have to re-roof your home again.
Asphalt Shingle Roof
An asphalt shingle roof is the most common type installed in residential areas and one reason why is because it’s also the most affordable. Many people are willing to take the 20-year average lifespan of an asphalt roof in exchange for a lower construction bill, and asphalt also offers additional benefits such as fire protection. You can pay more for high-quality shingles that still asphalt yet carry an average lifespan of 50 years, or you can select architectural asphalt that lasts about 30 years.
Metal Roof
A metal roof isn’t very pretty but you’ll likely never replace your roof again. According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors, metal roofs have been known to last as long as 80 years. At a minimum, you can expect about 40 years from your metal roofing system, and they are fireproof just as asphalt systems are. Because of its durability, a metal roof will cost you more, but in the end, it may be cheaper if you have to replace an asphalt roof more than once and not the metal roof.
Tile Roof
A tile roof is a way to go if you are 100-percent concerned about aesthetics. You can choose clay, concrete or slate tiles, and you can also choose different colors to be laid in a beautiful pattern. The cost may very well be worth it, not only because your new, unique roof will increase the equity you hold in your home, but also because some tile products are rated to last 100 years. Unless you live to be freakishly old, you’ll never replace this roof.
Wood Roof
Finally, a wood roof will last you approximately 30 years, and the wood shingles are treated to withstand outdoor elements and fire. Nonetheless, this might not be the system for you in the humid climate for which Georgia is famous. Check with the experts at Biltmore Roofing in Lawrenceville to see what they say about wood and the other systems mentioned in this post. The best system for you will depend on your home, budget, and expectations.