A roof is a major investment that should last for decades. If you are installing a new roof, you must consider aesthetics, budget and durability. Although there are several materials available, asphalt shingles and metal are the two most popular Houston residential roofing types. To help you evaluate your needs, an experienced Houston roofing contractor can guide you with comparisons of the two materials.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the least expensive roofing option. You can choose colors, textures and sizes that complement a building’s exterior. You can use a patterned roof for interest and street appeal or a single color for homogeneity and simplicity. Most asphalt shingles are fire-retardant.
Asphalt shingles absorb heat, a help in the winter but a deterrent in the hot Houston summers. Sunlight can speed deterioration. In addition, if they remain too wet, algae and moss may grow on them, which affects longevity. They can be damaged by hail and high winds.
Standard asphalt shingles have a fiberglass core and are coated with asphalt, ceramic, or stone granules that protect them from moisture and sunlight. They last between 15 and 20 years.
Higher-quality asphalt shingles, also known as architectural or laminate shingles, are made of the same materials as standard asphalt shingles. However, added layers make them thicker, heavier and more expensive. They can last up to 30 years. Better-quality shingles are resistant to impacts.
Metal Roofing
The types of metals used for roofing include aluminum, steel, zinc and copper. Each has a distinctive look that complements several architectural styles. Each also has specific properties that affect energy efficiency and durability. Your Houston roofing contractor can help you decide which material best suits your building.
Metal roofs cost more than asphalt shingles. However, metal roofing lasts up to 70 years, two to three times longer than the best asphalt shingles. Balancing cost and longevity, metal roofing is less expensive than asphalt shingles. In addition, metal has a better resale value.
Metal roofs are energy-efficient. Metal reflects UV rays, preventing much of the sun’s heat from radiating into the living space. Houston-area homeowners report saving up to 20 percent on utility bills after installing metal roofing. Metal is resistant to wind, fire and rot. Metal roofs require little maintenance, which saves money on Houston roof repairs.
Metal roofs today look very different than the shiny tin roofs used in the past on agricultural buildings. The wide variety of styles, colors and textures include ribbed sheets, panels and surfaces that resemble cedar shake and tile.
Consult a Houston Roofing Contractor
The licensed professionals at Paramount Roofing have years of experience and a stellar record of customer satisfaction as a Houston roofing contractor. We provide free estimates. To discuss options for a new roof that best suits your property, budget and lifestyle, call us at (713) 748-4000.