Choosing a roof is more than just an aesthetic decision. It’s a significant investment that impacts your home’s insulation, energy efficiency, and resistance to the elements.
The range of roofing materials available today is wider than ever, encompassing natural options like slate and wood and manmade alternatives, including asphalt, sheet metal, and plastic polymers.
Each option carries its unique set of benefits and potential drawbacks. Still, all can impart a unique architectural touch to your home. A. Clark Roofing & Siding, Alberta’s leading roofing contractor, is here to answer your questions about choosing the perfect roof for your home!
Roof Installation – Things to Consider
Choosing the right roof for installation involves numerous considerations:
- The material’s lifespan
- If it’ll hold up during natural disasters
- Will the roof have enough slope?
- The roof’s appearance fits with the house’s style
- Environmentally friendly and recyclable materials
- Costs
- Maintenance requirements
Roofing Materials
Another important thing to consider is the type of roofing material. Common options include:
- Asphalt shingles
- Wood shakes
- Clay or concrete tiles
- Metal
- Plastic Polymer
- Slate
Each type has advantages and disadvantages regarding durability, appearance, cost, and maintenance requirements. For instance, while asphalt shingles are inexpensive and easy to install, they may not last as long as slate or metal roofs.
To learn more, check out our blog on Metal Roof vs Shingles: Which is Better?
Roofing Installation – Material Grades
Here’s a general overview of the typical grades for these materials in terms of durability, costs, weight, and energy efficiency. Remember that the specific brand, construction, and installation can affect these grades.
- Slate
- Durability: A+ (very durable, often lasts over 100 years)
- Cost: D- (very expensive)
- Weight: D (very heavy, usually requires additional support)
- Energy Efficiency: B (good, but varies by colour and thickness)
- Concrete Tile
- Durability: A- (very durable, often lasts 50 years or more)
- Cost: C (moderate to high)
- Weight: C- (heavy, may require additional support)
- Energy Efficiency: B (good, but largely depends on colour)
- Clay Tile
- Durability: A (extremely durable, often lasts 50 years or more)
- Cost: C (moderate to high)
- Weight: C- (heavy, may require additional support)
- Energy Efficiency: B+ (good to excellent, especially lighter colours)
- Plastic Polymer
- Durability: B+ (good, often lasts 50 years or more)
- Cost: B (moderate)
- Weight: A (lightweight)
- Energy Efficiency: A (excellent, often designed to be cool roofs)
- Metal
- Durability: A (very durable, often lasts 50 years or more)
- Cost: B- (moderate to high, depending on the type)
- Weight: A (lightweight)
- Energy Efficiency: A (excellent, especially when treated with a reflective coating)
- Asphalt Composition Shingles
- Durability: C (fair, usually lasts 20 to 30 years)
- Cost: A (low)
- Weight: A (lightweight)
- Energy Efficiency: C- (fair, but can be improved with specially coated, energy-efficient shingles)
Find Your Ideal Roof
Choosing a roof requires balancing several factors, including cost, durability, aesthetics, weight, energy efficiency, and local regulations. Remember, a new roof is not just a visual upgrade; it’s a long-term investment in your home’s structural integrity and value.
Consulting a professional roofing contractor like A. Clark Roofing & Siding can provide valuable insight into making the best choice for your needs.
We provide services to Calgary (tel:1-587-856-0434) and Edmonton (tel:1-587-803-0181).