Roofing is one of the most important aspects of any home. A good roof protects the interior and serves as a barrier against rain, wind, snow, hail, and other elements. Proper maintenance and installation by trained professionals can make roofs last for decades. In this blog, we will discuss some of the most common types of roofing material throughout Chalfont, PA, and our surrounding service areas in Bucks, Montgomery, Delaware, and Chester Counties today. Read on to explore our comparison guide to roofing materials and discover the best materials for your home.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most common type of roofing material in the United States. These shingles account for more than 80% of home roofing and reroofing projects. Made with asphalt and mineral granules make these shingles are lightweight and easy to install.
Asphalt shingles are made of varying amounts of recycled materials and can be used with other types of roofing materials. They’re also available in a variety of colors, textures, and styles. That means it’s easy for homeowners to select a shingle to match their home.
Asphalt shingles are a great choice for many homes, especially those with sloped roofers because they’re an easy material to install on such surfaces. They’re also well-suited for the weather conditions in Pennsylvania. When you choose asphalt roofing materials, you know that your roof will be able to withstand damage from heavy rain, snow, and wind. With proper maintenance, an asphalt roof can last for up to 20 years.
If your home has a flat roof, asphalt shingles will not be the best option for your roof replacement. Flat roofs limit rain runoff, and pooled water on top of asphalt shingles can lead to roof leaks. In the case of flat roofs, the Summit Roofing & Siding Contractors team recommends exploring alternative materials like metal roofing.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofs are a durable, energy-efficient roofing material option for homeowners in PA. These roofing materials are also available in many colors so you can choose one that matches your home’s color scheme or style.
There are many metals used in the installation of metal roofs. These can include steel, copper, zinc, stainless steel, and aluminum. Each has its own unique properties, but they’re all great fits for homes located in an area with high winds.
In addition to being durable and long-lasting, metal roofs are also energy efficient. They reflect heat back into the atmosphere. This keeps your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, which lowers your utility bill year-round!
Composite Roof Installation
If you’re looking for a roofing material that is strong, durable, and low maintenance, composite roofing might be the answer. Made from a combination of materials like fiberglass, asphalt, and recycled materials, composite roofs can withstand severe weather conditions like hail and high winds.
Composite roofing is relatively low maintenance and you can easily clean it with a pressure wash, unlike other roofing materials that need regular treatments or coatings. In addition to its durability and low maintenance, composite roofing is available in a wide range of styles and colors, so homeowners can choose a look that complements their home’s architecture and enhances its curb appeal.
Certain composite roofing materials can reflect the sun’s heat and help homeowners reduce the amount of energy needed to cool their home, resulting in lower energy bills. In summary, composite roofing is an excellent option for homeowners looking for a roofing solution that is strong, low maintenance, cost-effective, and energy-efficient, while also enhancing the appearance of their home.
Other Natural Roofing Materials
No comparison guide to roofing materials is complete without a discussion of natural roofing materials! There are a few options for natural roofing materials that are popular in southeastern PA:
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- Wood Shingles – Wood shingles are made from wood planks and offer a natural and rustic appearance to homes. Wood shingles require regular maintenance and are not as durable as other roofing materials. They are susceptible to rot, mold, and insect infestations, so they may not be the best choice for areas with high humidity or precipitation.
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- Slate Roofing – Slate is a premium roofing material that is known for its durability and longevity. It has a distinctive, elegant appearance and can add a touch of sophistication to any home. Still, slate tends to be more expensive than other roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles, and requires special installation techniques because it’s heavy and fragile. This means that installation can take longer and may require specialized expertise, which can increase the overall cost.
When choosing a roofing material, it’s important to consider all the different factors, including cost, durability, maintenance, and appearance. While wood shingles and slate can offer unique and attractive looks, they may not be the most practical options for all homeowners. It’s important to work with a reputable roofing company that can help you evaluate your options and choose a material that meets your needs and budget.
Install with the Best Roofing Contractors in Pennsylvania
Summit Roofing is the best roofing contractor in Pennsylvania. We have been servicing homeowners and businesses with high-quality roofing solutions since 2005, and we are proud to offer our customers a 5-year workmanship warranty on all of our services.
We are a flexible, nimble team dedicated to providing professional, easy-to-understand roofing and siding solutions for homeowners and businesses in Montgomery County, Delaware County, Bucks County or Chester County. Our goal is to make sure you get exactly what you want at an affordable price with no surprises along the way! If you have any questions or need a guide to roofing materials selection, contact us online or give us a call at 1-(215) 667-8988.