Homeowners who are in dire need of a new roof have many options. There are many roofing materials that they can choose from, each with different lifespans. Aside from their longevity, the different roofing materials each have their own attributes--positive and negative--that can have a significant impact on your investment. Here are the disadvantages and advantages of the most common roofing materials.

Types of Roofing Materials and Life Expectancy

For decades, asphalt 3-tab shingles have been the most popular roofing material. This durable material is made of an asphalt/fiberglass base and shingle. Protective granules are added to give it extra strength and color. Because of their affordability and ease, they are very popular with homeowners. The longest-lasting asphalt shingles are around 20 years. There are shingles of higher quality that can last as long as 50 years.



The Advantages And Disadvantages of Roof Materials

Asphalt shingle roofs have many advantages.

Asphalt 3-tab roofing shingles are one the most cost-effective options. Asphalt shingle roofing can be purchased for as little as $1.50 up to $5.50 per sq. foot. You can also choose architectural asphalt shingles at a slightly higher price: $22 to $28 for a square foot.

Asphalt shingles cost less to install. They can be installed directly on old shingles as long as the roof deck is in good condition.

Asphalt shingles are Class A fire resistant, which means they can withstand a fire that burns for at least two hours. You should discuss your options for roofing with your contractor if there are other roofing options that may be more suitable than asphalt.

These shingles are easily available in most home improvement stores.

Asphalt shingle roofs: Disadvantages

Shingles made of asphalt have a shorter life span than other roofing materials. Asphalt shingles can last from 15 to 30 years, while other roofing materials can last as long as 50 years.

Asphalt shingles are highly susceptible to heat, wind, and storm damage.

Asphalt shingles are recyclable and often used for pavement. However, they aren’t considered eco-friendly. Producing these shingles produces a lot more greenhouse gas emissions.

Wood Roofs are a great choice.

Wooden roofs can last for up to 25 more years than asphalt roofing. The lifespan of your cedar-shingled roof depends on where you live, what wood was used, and how thick the cut is.

Wooden shingles look natural and are very appealing to homeowners.

Cedar and wood shingles have a lighter weight than other roofing materials like clay and slate, but they still provide strength and moisture protection.

Wooden Shingles are eco-friendly because they are made of natural, biodegradable materials.

Wood Roofs Have Their Disadvantages

Wooden roofing shingles can be more expensive than other types of roofing. They cost anywhere from $4.50 up to $9.00 per sq. foot.

Wooden Shingles require additional, periodic fire retardation. Your municipality may ban them. If you reside in an area where a fire is a concern, speak to your contractor.

Preservatives, fungicides, and periodic treatments are necessary for wooden shakes and shingles to prevent them from drying, cracking, drying, or becoming dry.