Whether you have offbeat tastes in general, you’re looking for something that will make your house stand out from the crowd, or you are trying to save some money by choosing an unconventional material, maybe you’ve decided that traditional shingles or roofing tiles are not for you. Fortunately, there are lots of great options available to consumers like you these days. More homeowners than ever before are choosing alternative roofing materials for their residences. You’ll discover a few of these as you read on.
Synthetic tiles – If cost is your primary reason for considering alternative roofing materials, you might find that synthetic tiles are a good fit, especially if you love the look of costly slate or granite roofing tiles. Synthetic tiles, which are crafted from either rubber or specialized plastic, are designed to look like natural stone without the expensive price tag. Make sure you select high-quality synthetic tiles for the most authentic appearance.
Recycled shingles – Recycled composite shingles are crafted from nearly 100% recycled materials, making them the perfect choice for people who are trying to be eco-conscious as they renovate their homes. These shingles are typically slightly pricier than traditional asphalt shingles, but they are also rated to last longer and are significantly better for the environment. Recycles shingles are available in multiple colors and look great on almost all home styles.
“Living” roofing – Before we dive into what living roofing is, it is crucial to note that it is not appropriate for people living in the colder areas of our service region, such as mountainous North Carolina. It may, however, be an option for those in tropical climes, like Charleston, South Carolina. Living roofing is crafted from a special type of grass that functions as a habitat for bugs, birds, and small animals while providing amazing drainage and a truly unique aesthetic. If you live in a beachfront bungalow, talk to your contractor about the viability of a living roof in your situation.
Built-up roofs (BURs) – In decades past, homes with flat roofs, such as those that were popular in the 1960s, often had tar-and-gravel roofing. Nowadays, this older style has been updated to use heavy-duty rubber materials, thermoplastics, and specially engineered membrane layers in lieu of tar and gravel. These updated built-up roofs (BURs) will last for many years and will repel water incredibly well. BURs are most commonly installed on commercial structures but are gaining traction among homeowners.
Copper – Most people have never seen a copper roof, but they do exist, and they look especially great on rustic homes, such as cabins. The reason this roofing material is so rare, though, is that it is incredibly costly. If you are interested in investing in a copper roof, you’ll have to be prepared to pay a premium. This material is, however, so durable it should last well over a century, gorgeous, and completely one-of-a-kind in most neighborhoods.
At Hatch Homes, our passion is helping our clients create their dream homes. No matter what you have in mind for your house, we can help you source the best alternative roofing material to make your vision a reality. Our expert team can even help you understand all of the options that you can choose from to create a truly unique residence. We look forward to meeting you and helping you renovate your Carolina home!