A lot of factors are considered when it comes to selecting the right roofing material for your home. Your roof plays an important role in protecting your home and your loved ones from the natural elements. It also increases the market value of your home depending on its insulation quality and overall appearance. With the advent of technology and protection in the form of sealants like EPDM Liquid Rubber sealants, roofers now offer materials and styles like natural slate and wood to man-made products such as asphalts, sheet metal, and rubber.
Southern California’s diverse climate and Roofing Materials:
California is a geographically diverse state of the USA. The state is usually divided into Northern and Southern California, while the division is not well defined. Coastal and southern regions of Southern California have a Mediterranean climate, with slightly rainy winters and dry summers. The sea generally creates desirable moderate temperatures statewide, creating warmer winters and cooler summers, especially in coastal regions of the state.
1. Asphalt Shingles
Studies show that more than 75% of Americans choose Asphalt Shingles as priority roofing material because of its low cost, easy installation, and resiliency. Asphalt Shinglesare made of fiberglass mat which is saturated with asphalt and coated with colored mineral granules. Asphalt Shingles have low insulation quality and a shorter life span than any other roofing material. Standard shingles are available in a wide variety of colors and are the cheapest option in roofing material.
2. Metal Roofing
Metal roofing was initially used for warehouse construction or for commercial use in the past, but with advanced technological changes, many people are choosing metal roofing for their residential homes as well. Metal roofs are available in copper, aluminum, and stainless steel with a high percentage of recycled content. Metal roofing varies from traditional metal roof panels to simulating wood shakes and shingles, slate, or tile. Metal roofing is also very lightweight, fire resistant and durable as well. Apart from its longevity, it is much lighter than most materials and resistant to adverse weather conditions.
3. Wood Shingles and Shakes
Wood shingles and shakes are available in different makings/types of wood like cedar, redwood, southern pine. Shingles are made with the help of a machine whereas shakes are handmade and have a rougher look. Since this type of roofing is more aesthetically attractive due to its natural look, it is much more expensive than asphalts and other roofing materials.
However, it lacks fire retardancy and is susceptible to mold in heavy rainfall. These shingle and shakes have been categorized under class ‘A’ and ‘B’ according to the character of the specified. Before you consider a wood roof, please consult with your local building departments that there aren’t any restrictions in your area.
4. Clay Tile and Concrete Tile
Clay tile is made from natural clay which is fired in a kiln whereas concrete tile is made from a mixture of Portland cement and sand. These tiles give comparable benefits as compared with slate but with a greater variety and at a lower cost. Tile is very durable and fire resistant roofing material but it is much more heavy and expensive than other roofing materials like asphalts shingles, fiber cement products, so your roof may require additional reinforcement if you are planning to go for tile roofing.
5. Slate Roofing
Slate is a dense natural material and by this virtue it is non-absorbent. Its color is dependent on its chemical and mineral compositions. As these factors vary from place to place, slate is available in a variety of colors. These factors also affect the responsiveness of slate towards changing color upon exposure to weather conditions. Slates with minimum change in color are known as ‘’permanent’’ slates while those with the most color changes are known as “weathering” slates. Re-roofing the Roof with slate will require reinforcement of the roof to support its heavy load. Although it’s non-leaching and lasts for hundreds of years and its natural beauty is unmatched, it is one of the most expensive of steep slope roofing materials. Its installation is labor intensive and requires professional skills.
What can you do to make your Roof Last Longer?
· Manually clean the roof with brooms or leaf blowers at least twice a year.
· Ensure proper ventilation to prevent condensation on the plywood decking and resultant rotting.
· Regularly clean the gutters to avoid water clogs.
· Cut off heavy tree limbs and branches if they brush against the roof.
· Properly insulate attic ceilings with self-adhesive layers to prevent ice dams.
· Ensure 3-layer protection in hurricane-prone areas – like using sealants e.g. EPDM Liquid Rubber sealant, ribbing with ring shank nails, and locking down roof edges with metal flashing.
Have any question or query? Call 855-281-0940
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