Many homeowners wish that roofing could be maintenance-free, inexpensive, and long-lived. The average lifespan of a roof is about ten years, but homeowners may extend the life of their roofs by purchasing the right materials. Extending the life cycle of a roof also means consuming less building material over time, and using less landfill space, which benefits the environment.

Some roofs are made of composition shingles. Composition shingles provide a great look at an affordable price, and are easy to install. In addition to being low-maintenance, composition shingles offer Class A fire protection, and are available in a large selection of types, brands, and colors. Composition shingles may blow off from a roof in the event of high winds, and do not possess the attractiveness or character of tiles or shakes.

Wood shakes are another roofing material. Because of variations in the width, thickness, and cut of wood, no two roofs made with wood shakes, will ever look the same. In addition, wood shakes help to insulate the attic, by allowing the house to breathe. Wood shakes, however, do demand a great deal of maintenance, and are often vulnerable to mold, rot, and insects. In addition, homeowners should be careful to purchase pressure-treated shakes, in order to meet national fire safety standards.

Clay tiles make an attractive, long-lasting choice for certain styles of homes. Clay tiles will not burn, rot, or harbor insects, and they require little maintenance over their lifespan. Clay tiles are also available in a variety of styles, types, brands, and colors, to create a unique and distinctive look. Clay tiles are heavy, however, and will require homeowners to install extra roof support. In addition, tiles are fragile, and may break easily during installation, or during home maintenance activities.

Slate roofs are expensive, but offer unbeatable durability and style. Like their clay counterparts, they are long-lasting, low-maintenance, and invulnerable to fire, insects, or rot. Weight is an issue with slate shingles, as is fragility. Homeowners may have to add extra roof support, and will have to take care when walking across shingles, during maintenance activities.

Metal roofing is available in a variety of types. Metal roofs are durable, fire-retardant, and virtually maintenance-free. In addition, metal roofs are energy-efficient, and generally allow homeowners to save up to twenty percent on their energy bills. Metal roofs will require professional installation, and the initial cost for the roof may be higher, than the cost of other materials.

Fiber cement may mimic the look of either wood shakes, tiles, or slate. In the past, homeowners noted problems with breaking, curling, and color-fastness, associated with fiber cement. However, the industry has addressed many of those problems, and has increased the quality of the product. Homeowners may have the look of wood shakes, tile, or slate, without the wood shakes’ vulnerability to fire, or the added weight of tile and slate.

Most homeowners will require a professional to install their roofing. Professionals will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of different materials, and will help homeowners to choose the best material for their needs. Homeowners should evaluate the installer’s reputation and experience, in addition to evaluating the price of the job, before making a selection.

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