If you are a homeowner, you will almost certainly have to deal with roof repairs at some point in time. While many Carolina residents — and people throughout the United States — view roof work as a frustration, it can actually be a positive thing! Finding yourself in need of a full roof replacement gives you a chance to select a brand new roofing material that will serve your family well for many years into the future.
If it has been a long time since you had a roof put on your home — or if you’ve never had it replaced since you moved in — you might not even be familiar with all of the materials that are on the market today. Here, we take a look at the top roofing materials in the home improvement industry heading into the new year.
There’s nothing like a new roof to get a fresh year off on the right foot, and, depending where you live in North Carolina or South Carolina, you might not even need to wait until spring to have it installed.
Clay or ceramic tiles – Tiles, which tend to have Mediterranean flair, are a gorgeous option for homeowners who want their houses to have a major visual impact. Typically, these require very little maintenance unless they get cracked or damaged as the result of inclement weather. Furthermore, tiles are an environmentally conscious choice for homeowners who are trying to reduce their overall negative impact on the earth.
The only downsides to clay and ceramic roofing tiles are their cost — they tend to be quite expensive and don’t fit into everyone’s budget — and their weight — some houses cannot withstand the weight of this roofing material, so make sure you have your roofing contractor assess the situation before committing to purchase any products.
Asphalt shingles – Asphalt shingles have been America’s most popular roofing material for many years. This is because they are incredibly affordable — no matter what your budget is, you can probably find an option that works for you — and they last for at least a couple of decades in most cases. Nowadays, some brands even offer architectural asphalt shingles, which are a three-dimensional option that have more aesthetic appeal than conventional three-tab models.
The primary downsides to asphalt shingles are that they don’t always hold up well in inclement weather — this is especially problematic for those who live in hurricane-prone areas of the Carolinas — and their manufacturing process is not good for the environment. Nonetheless, they are a good roofing option, especially if you’re on a budget.
Wood shakes – Wood shakes have a classic, rustic appeal that is particularly ideal for mountain communities in North Carolina. They are often compared to asphalt shingles from a durability standpoint and are less costly than ceramic tiles. Furthermore, because wood is a natural material, wood shakes and shingles are a good environmentally-conscious option.
The only downsides to wood shakes are that they can warp in wet, humid climates, and they can be susceptible to termite damage. There are, however, wood treatments that can reduce the likelihood of pest damage if you have your heart set on this roofing material for your Carolina residence.
These are just a few of the choices you have for your home’s brand new roof. Metal panels, slate tiles, and other materials are also available to today’s homeowners. If you have any questions about the best choice for your budget and lifestyle, don’t hesitate to reach out to the team at Hatch Homes today!