Imagup General Magazine 2024
If you are in the market for a new roof and have already started looking for tiles, you have probably noticed tons of options that are available. Knowing which one would be the best based on your climate, budget, sound, and durability can be a challenge when you know little about them.
That is why you must take your time and look at all the variables before you pick a material. In this article, we’re going to give you a clear rundown of some of the most popular choices on the market.
Slate Roof Tiles
Let’s start with slate roof tiles. Slate tiles are trendy because of their looks, but also for how durable they are. A properly installed slate roof can last up to a hundred years.
Slate tiles are made from natural stone and are also an environmentally conscious choice since they can be recycled if they happen to outlive the house or you decide to change the roof at a later date.
If we look at the pros and cons of slate, one of the most significant disadvantages is the cost. You can expect to pay anywhere from £25 to £45 per m² for installation and as much as £150 per m² for the tiles themselves. You also have to make sure that you work with a reputable installer. Teams like the belfastroofingservices.co.uk have been in the business for over 22 years and are specialized in all sorts of tiles. The only groups like these will be able to make sure the pipes don’t spall or shed layers during installation.
However, slate is a perfect option if you want a natural roof that will last longer and can also withstand changes in temperature. Also, slate is very dense and resistant to corrosion, insects, and water. It’s also one of the materials that require the least maintenance.
Clay Roof Tiles
Clay roof tiles are becoming more popular because of their aesthetic appeal. They can add a Mediterranean look to any home, and they come in a wide variety of colors, patterns, and shapes.
One of the benefits of clay tiles is that they’re also very durable. A clay roof can last as long as a slate roof, and clay tiles can withstand heavy wind and hail. They’re also one of the most environmentally friendly options on the market.
Clay tiles are made from organic materials, and can also be recycled. Also, clay tiles require almost no maintenance and can be easily replaced. If one or a couple of tiles fly off or are broken, they can be fixed in minutes as each tile is individually installed.
One issue with clay tiles is that they tend to be on the expensive tiles. You can expect to pay as much as three times the cost of an option like asphalt, for instance. You also have to make sure that your roof can support the tiles as they can get heavy. They’re also tricky to install, so it’s vital that you work with an experienced contractor that will make sure that they are cut precisely, laid adequately and that no moisture sneaks in.
Concrete Roof Tiles
Concrete roof tiles are a great option if you’re looking for a compromise between price and look. Concrete can be made to look like slate or clay tiles, and are one of the most cost-efficient options on the market when you factor in performance.
While these tiles are very durable, they can also get cumbersome, so you’ll again need to make sure that your roof can withstand the weight. In some cases, reinforced framing will be installed to support the tiles. Concrete tiles can be installed on steep and moderately sloped roofs and offer excellent fire resistance.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles might not be the most attractive, but they’re your best option if you’re strapped for cash. These won’t last long. However, it will probably last about 30 years, but some need replacement after 15 years.
That is why you mustn`t go for the absolute cheapest asphalt shingles you can find. Make sure that they have an excellent hail score. And while many manufacturers will show their rating, it is not legally mandated, so if you can’t see the evaluation, it’s not a good sign.
Asphalt is also not the best option if you’re environmentally conscious. It`s not energy efficient and is made of tons of chemicals and petroleum products. However, they can be recycled, so this is a plus.
Wooden Shingles
Wood shingles are also a great option if you’re looking for something affordable, but aesthetically pleasing as well. And while they are made out of wood, they have surprisingly good fire resistance. These are usually made from fire-resistant woods like cedar and can be sprayed with fire retarding agents. However, they’ll never be entirely fireproof.
While wooden shingles are more durable than materials like asphalt, they aren’t the most resistant on the market. Wooden shingles will last around 30 to 40 years and require significant maintenance. These also tend to crack, so make sure that the shingles you pick have an excellent hail rating.
But one thing in favor of wooden shingles is how energy efficient they are. Woodwork is a natural insulator, and these shingles will allow you to save money on heating in the winter while allowing you to keep temperatures more cooling in the summer. They’re around twice as energy-efficient as asphalt.
Choosing the right roofing material for your home is not something that can be taken lightly. So, make sure that you look at all the options on the market, and factor maintenance and durability first if you want to get the best return possible on your investment.
