In recent years, homeowners’ priorities have shifted to include reducing energy expenditures and emissions and utilizing recyclable building materials. Start at the top if you’re wanting to make your home greener or save more financially. If you own a modern home, you may be asking yourself the question, “what is the best type of roof for my home? Here at Roof Right, a roofing company in Maryland, we have compiled a list of the best types of roofs for modern homes!
The Best Types of Roofs for Modern Homes in No Particular Order!
1. Asphalt Shingle Roofs
For more than a century, asphalt shingle roofs have been a home standard. The advancements in technology and materials have brought them into the 21st century.
Previously, asphalt shingles with many layers had to be assembled by hand. Weather-resistant laminate shingles are now available in more sophisticated designs, profiles, colors, and with fewer emissions than ever before, thanks to advances by manufacturers.
Modern asphalt shingles can even simulate the appearance of natural slate and authentic cedar shake. In addition to their look and durability, shingles are also algae-resistant (label AR) and ENERGY STAR® approved.
2. Slate Roof Shingles
Modern upmarket residences frequently employ slate roof shingles. In addition to its natural beauty, fire resistance, rot resistance, ease of care, and predicted century-long lifespan, slate is available in a number of hues and shapes.
However, slate has significant downsides, including as its weight, expense, and the high level of installation knowledge required. Slate tiles are also fragile, so they frequently require repairs and might clog your gutters due to the fact that slate is difficult to wash away.
3. Metal Roofs
With the rising interest in industrial architecture and energy efficiency, metal roofs offer environmentally conscious homeowners a choice that is both stylish and eco-friendly.
Metal roofs made of tin, aluminum, copper, and galvanized steel can reduce homeowners’ energy bills by up to 40 percent. Depending on the environment, several finishes can be used to improve a home’s ability to retain or release heat. This “cool roof” approach can also resist the majority of Mother Nature’s wrath.
In addition to energy efficiency and sturdiness, metal roofs are also recyclable and long-lasting. Some metal roofs are rated to endure more than 60 years and are manufactured from infinitely recyclable recycled materials. Did someone say green?
4. Wood Shake Roofs
Wood shake roofs constructed from cedar, cypress, pine, and redwood require trees to be chopped down and manufactured into shingles, however wood shingles may sometimes be reused and recycled after use, such as being burned for low-emission heating.
The more environmentally friendly your wood shakes are, the more sustainably they were sourced. Their product consumes fewer fossil fuel emissions than asphalt alternatives and often lasts two-thirds longer. When properly maintained, wood shakes can reduce summer and winter energy costs.
Wood shake is desirable not just because of its low environmental impact, but also because of its striking originality. It looks unlike any other roofing material and offers the same level of protection as other products.
5. Rubber Roofs
Wood shake roofs constructed from cedar, cypress, pine, and redwood require trees to be chopped down and manufactured into shingles, however wood shingles may sometimes be reused and recycled after use, such as being burned for low-emission heating.
The more environmentally friendly your wood shakes are, the more sustainably they were sourced. Their product consumes fewer fossil fuel emissions than asphalt alternatives and often lasts two-thirds longer. When properly maintained, wood shakes can reduce summer and winter energy costs.
Wood shake is desirable not just because of its low environmental impact, but also because of its striking originality. It looks unlike any other roofing material and offers the same level of protection as other products.
Questions to ask yourself when selecting a new roof
Now that we have identified the five best types of roofs for modern homes, we must answer the question, how do I determine the right roof for my home? Whether you are constructing a new home or replacing an aging or leaking roof, there are crucial factors to consider when selecting a new roof to ensure you make the proper choice. How do you choose the best roof out of the numerous types and possibilities available? Below are ten essential questions to ask when selecting a roof.
Which type of roof will best protect my home?
To obtain the best roof, you must prepare for the worst. Consider the hazards in your region and ensure that your roof is engineered to endure hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires, snow, hail, ice, driving rain, and high winds. The highest level of safety is derived from knowing your roof provides full protection against everything Mother Nature throws at it, as opposed to merely hoping it does. Consider extras such as snow guards, heavy-duty gutters, and waterproof underlayment that can provide more protection and prevent future headaches and costs.
What are the maintenance requirements?
Regardless of the material, a brand-new roof typically appears attractive. However, asphalt, shake, and clay are particularly susceptible to maintenance difficulties like as moss, algae, and fungi, especially in rainy and humid areas. Untreated, these concerns are at best unsightly and at worst reduce the roof’s lifespan and cause severe damage. Regular professional treatments can be costly and detrimental to the environment. Inquire about low-maintenance solutions, such as metal roofing, which typically requires only water and mild soap to look excellent.
How can the performance of a roof be determined?
Material and labor warranties are extremely significant. In addition, a roof should be rated by trustworthy, independent authorities for fire resistance, hail resistance, and energy efficiency.
Having a roof with a Class A fire rating and an Energy Star-qualified “Cool Roof” gives you piece of mind when it comes to protecting your home from wildfires and increasing energy efficiency in both cold and hot weather. Ask your roofing contractor about insulation and underlayment that meets or exceeds regional construction codes for continued protection and savings.
Which types of roofs are structurally sound?
There are numerous sturdy roofing materials available, such as slate and clay, but these heavyweights may necessitate further reinforcing (and cost) of a roof’s underlying framework.
Snow and ice loads can considerably increase this weight, therefore homeowners who desire a comparable appearance may wish to use metal roofing that mimics these substances.
About Roof Right
Roof Right is a A Family-Owned Roofing Company in Carroll County, MD. We are a locally owned and operated residential roofing contractor based in Hampstead, Maryland. We service Anne Arundel County, Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Harford County, Howard County, and Montgomery County. We provide service for all types of residential roofing repairs. Roof Right also offers insulation, gutters, windows, doors, siding, and decks. In addition to our excellent roof repairs, we also provide commercial roofing services.