If you are currently researching roofing materials to find the most durable solution for your home, you surely know by now that each type of roofing material offers its own, special set of benefits and features and that all materials are different in terms of longevity. While the actual lifespan of a finished roof is influenced by many factors, such as the climate area where it is installed and the amount of maintenance it receives, each type of roofing material is warranted for a different duration. Here are some of the most long-lived materials.
Slate
The natural stone that slate roofs are made from is certainly among the strongest, most durable materials available. Warranted for an amazing 75-120+ years, slate will add a touch of elegance to your building and it will provide it with superior protection from the elements. The material is a great, natural insulator as well, providing valuable help with your efforts to keep your building cool in summer and warm in winter.
There is one important aspect that any homeowner who considers slate as an option must consider: the material is the among the heaviest options of all roofing material, therefore it can only be installed on buildings that are able to support that weight.
Clay Tiles
Lakewood roof repair specialists all agree that another beautiful, traditional material, clay tiles can be kept on your roof for about 100 years. The clay used for making tiles is first introduced into molds, then baked at very high temperatures to cure the material and to remove any moisture from it. The resulting material is one that is resistant to water, snow, fire, pests, one that does not fade, even if it is exposed to harsh sunshine for extended periods and that insulates the home from above, minimizing the amount of heat transferred from the roof towards the building interior and making sure that warm air stays in the home in winter.
The material is quite heavy – though not as heavy as slate, clay tiles also put a burden on the building structure, therefore the decision to use clay must always be preceded by careful calculations of the building’s load bearing capacity.
Metal
Metal roofing materials today come in many forms – while in the past, large sheets were the only available option, modern metal roofing materials come in the form of tiles and shingles as well. The alloys and coating solutions are just as diverse – steel, galvanized steel, stainless steel and aluminum are the most common options, but copper, zinc coated alloys and others are also available.
Metal roofs, whether made from large panels or smaller components, offer a longevity of 30-50 years. The material is resistant to water, solar radiations, pests, fires, even to winds and storms without requiring more maintenance than other roofs.
Metal roofs are also affordable and lightweight, being suitable for any building. The material is also suitable for being installed on top of the old roof, provided that the roof’s support structure is suitable for receiving a second layer, so quick and easy installation is also among the features that make metal roofs stand out.
