When it comes to home improvement, the roof is likely one of the most important investments you can make. After all, your roof keeps your family safe and secure from the elements (rain, snow, wind, etc.). That’s why it’s so important to install a quality roof that will last for years to come and protect your home from damage.
We understand that choosing a roof isn’t something most homeowners often do. Knowing which materials are best for your particular needs and budget can be hard. There are so many options out there! That’s why at Universal Roofing & Construction, we’ve taken the time to compile a list of the top 5 best roofs based on our expertise.
By following our recommendations, you can ensure that your home has the strongest protection against weather conditions and also looks great for years to come.
1. Asphalt shingle roofs
Asphalt shingle roofs are a popular choice for homes due to their affordability, durability, and variety of styles and colors. Asphalt shingles are made of fiberglass matting coated with asphalt and ceramic granules, which makes them resistant to inclement weather conditions, fire, and wind. They’re also relatively easy to install and can last up to 30 years if correctly installed.
However, asphalt shingles need frequent maintenance and repairs over time. They’re not as durable as some other materials like metal or slate roofing. They can also be damaged by hail or high winds due to their thinness. Additionally, asphalt shingles may require more energy in the summer months because they absorb more heat from the sun than other materials like metal roofs do.
On the plus side, there is a good selection of asphalt shingle types when it comes to style options, including architectural shingles, 3-tab shingles, designer shingles, and interlocking shingles. There is also an array of colors available so you can find something that suits your home’s aesthetic needs better than any other type of roofing material.
Lastly, asphalt shingle roofs are very affordable compared to other roof types making them a great option for budget-conscious homeowners who don’t want to sacrifice quality for cost savings.
2. Metal roofs
Metal roofing is an excellent option for homeowners who want to increase the longevity, energy efficiency, and low maintenance of their homes. Metal roofs are made from durable steel or aluminum, which makes them highly resistant to wear and tear. They can last up to 40-70 years with minimal care and maintenance, making them one of the most cost-effective roofing materials available.
Metal roofs also come in many colors, finishes, and styles, so you can customize the look of your home to match your personal taste. The reflective surface helps keep your home cooler in the summer by reflecting away heat from the sun, reducing energy costs associated with air conditioning. Additionally, metal roofs have excellent water resistance properties that protect against leaks and damage from bad weather like high winds and heavy rains.
Aside from being durable and energy efficient, metal roofs also require very little maintenance throughout their life cycle. Unlike asphalt shingles that need to be replaced every 15-20 years, metal roofs require no additional upkeep aside from occasional cleaning with soap and water. This means you save money on roof repair costs down the line since you won’t need to worry about replacing individual shingles or waterproof coating every few years.
3. Tile roofs
Tile roofs are an attractive and popular choice for many homeowners, especially in regions with hot climates. These types of roofs are made from clay tiles, which are formed into a variety of shapes and sizes and then baked in kilns at high temperatures to create a strong and durable top layer.
Tile roofs provide excellent protection against the elements, as they are highly fire-resistant and can withstand intense heat. They also act as insulation, reducing energy costs by keeping the home cooler in the summer months. Additionally, tile roofs come in a variety of colors, allowing you to customize the look of your home.
Moreover, tile roofs require minimal maintenance compared to other types of roofing materials. They will last for decades if properly cared for, making them an economical choice for those looking for long-term value. Additionally, since tiles lay flat on the roof decking and overlap slightly when installed correctly, they create a barrier that makes it difficult for water or debris to penetrate through the roof system.
Finally, tile roofs offer a cosmetic appeal that adds curb appeal and increases property value. With their unique design elements, such as ridges and barrel-vaulted curves, these roofs give any home a classic yet modern look that stands out from the rest.
4. Slate roofs
Slate roofs are one of the most luxurious options available to homeowners, thanks to their striking beauty and long-lasting durability. Not only are they aesthetically pleasing, but they’re also eco-friendly and can significantly increase your home’s value.
Slate is a natural material that’s formed from sedimentary rock, typically shale or quartzite. It has a beautiful texture that complements many architectural styles, giving homes an instant upgrade in terms of aesthetics. In addition, slate roofs are incredibly durable; they can last for decades (up to 100 years) with proper maintenance and can withstand extreme weather conditions such as hail and high winds.
The eco-friendly properties of slate make it an attractive choice for modern homeowners as well. It is non-toxic and free from synthetic materials like PVC, which means it won’t off-gas any harmful chemicals into your home’s air. Plus, since slate tiles are naturally fireproof and waterproof, you don’t have to worry about damaging your roof during the summer months or other times of extreme heat!
Finally, installing a slate roof on your home can be a great investment due to its potential to increase resale value. Homebuyers may be willing to pay more for a house with this kind of roof because of its aesthetic appeal and long-term durability.
5. Flat roofs
Flat roofs, also known as low-slope roofs or membranes, have become a popular choice for both commercial and modern residential applications. Often used in contemporary architecture, flat roofs offer several advantages. As the name implies, their main feature is a flat surface with minimal slope, typically no more than 10 degrees. This design makes them particularly suitable for rooftop gardens and solar panels; the lack of pitch helps to create an even base for the installation of these features.
In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, flat roofs are relatively affordable compared to other roof styles due to their simple construction. They can often be installed quickly and easily by existing roofing contractors or DIYers, another advantage that has earned them great popularity among modern homeowners.
On the flip side, there are some drawbacks associated with flat roofs. As they don’t have much of a pitch, water will tend to pool on the surface if not properly drained away. This can lead to structural damage over time as well as potentially hazardous mold and mildew growth if left unchecked. Additionally, flat roofs require frequent maintenance due to their susceptibility to UV damage from direct sunlight; certain materials used in their construction must also be regularly inspected for wear and tear.
However, with proper care and attention, you’ll find that a flat roof can give your home or business building an extra level of visual appeal and convenience, not least in terms of garden design or solar panels, at a price that won’t break the bank!
Conclusion: Why Is Universal Roofing & Construction the Right Choice?
When it comes to finding the best roofing solution for your home, Universal Roofing & Construction is your go-to choice. Our team of expert roofers has years of experience installing and repairing a wide variety of common roofing materials, including asphalt shingles, metal roofs, tile roofs, flat roofs, and more.
Not only do we offer top-quality roofing materials and services, but we are also committed to providing outstanding customer service and support.
We understand that a new roof is a significant investment, and we will work closely with you to ensure you get the right roofing solution for your particular needs and budget.
Contact us today for a free estimate or schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you protect your home with a top-notch roofing solution.