Pros and Cons: Roof Edition

When you think back to your time in quarantine, what was something that you did to spend your time?  Did you learn a new recipe? A new language? Or maybe you’ve started thinking about replacing your roof but couldn’t because you didn’t know which kind to replace it with! Roof replacement projects can get confusing to the point where you start asking yourself; “Do I want to keep the same roof I already have?” “Do I want to go through the hassle of replacing it in a few years?” “What kind of roof can give me the best curb appeal?”

We took a look at our top 3 most requested roofs replacements and compiled a pros and cons list to help you with your next roof replacement project.

Asphalt Shingle Roof:

Known for being the most common roof in America due to being relatively inexpensive and simple to install.

Pros:

• More Affordable: Asphalt is the least expensive out of all the roof types.

• Heat: Absorbs the heat and keeps it in the home.

• More options:  Asphalt shingles come in a variety of different shapes and colors.

Cons:

• • Longevity: Typically asphalt roofs can last about 15-30 years.

  • Non-Environmentally Friendly: Products end up in landfills and are not recyclable. However, changes are being made with how they are being made and varies between roof brands.

  • Easily Damaged: If not properly installed, asphalt can develop damage due to the environment and grow  moss, also risk animals getting in.

Metal Roof:

Known for its high resistance and longevity. Can be made from materials such as; aluminum, copper, steel, and zinc.

Pros:

• Longevity: Typically lasts about 50-100 years depending on the material.

• Environmentally Friendly: Metal roofs can be recycled after removal.

• Durable: Metal roofs can handle high winds and are recommended for those in high wind areas.

Cons:

 

• Expensive: Depending on the material, prices can be double compared to asphalt.

• Noisy: Rain and hail sound intensifies if there is no insulation, can also cause dents due to large hail.

• Upkeep: Some metal roofs require some upkeep every few years. This may involve going up on the roof and putting a coating on to keep the color from fading.

Synthetic Slate Roof:

Made from recycled materials such as plastic and rubber. A much lighter, and less expensive version of a slate roof.

Pros:

• Environmentally Friendly: Synthetic roofs are the most eco-friendly of all roofs due to being  made from recycled plastic. They can also be recycled after use, even if they’re old!

• Longevity: Synthetic roofs can last over 100 years if installed properly.

• Appearance: Synthetic slate roofs look similar to slate roofs for a fraction of the cost.

Cons:

• New: Synthetic Slate is still relatively new compared to other roof materials, so some contractors won’t accept the project.

• More Expensive: Synthetic slate is extremely expensive compared to other alternatives such as asphalt and metal roofs.

• Fragile: Synthetic roofs are extremely fragile and are not recommended to walk on.

We hope our list of pros and cons has helped answer any questions that you might have when it comes time to replace your roof. If you’d like to get in contact with us, our office number is 215-343-5557. Or you can use our online contact form.