What is the Most Common Type of Residential Roofing?

The most common type of residential roofing is asphalt shingles. The affordable, durable roof is available in many styles and colors to match any home.

Metal has made a resurgence in the market, offering many style options. These range from standing seam styles to shingle-lookalikes. 

Asphalt Shingles

If you’re building a new home or replacing your existing roof, you have many roofing options to choose from. Each material offers different features, benefits, and cost levels. Which one you choose will depend on your personal preference and the needs of your home’s structure.

Asphalt shingles are the most common type of residential roofing. These shingles consist of overlapping elements that protect the roof’s substructure and are available in a variety of colors and styles. They offer an affordable option for homeowners and are ideal for sloped roofs. They are durable and have a long lifespan. However, they are not as aesthetically pleasing as other roofing materials and can be damaged by extreme weather and climate conditions.

Shingles are made from either fiberglass or organic mats, with an asphalt-saturated layer on both sides and ceramic granules on the top. The granules increase the surface area, which helps them resist the sun’s UV rays and keep the roof cooler. They also help protect the shingle from mold and algae growth, which can cause damage.

There are several types of shingle available, including 3-tab shingles and architectural or dimensional shingles. Depending on your preference, you can even find shingles that mimic the look of other materials, such as slate or cedar shakes.

A good quality asphalt shingle has an average lifespan of 20-30 years, but they can last much longer. Their longevity depends on how well they are installed and the type of maintenance they receive. The most common types of shingle maintenance include cleaning and regular inspections. It’s important to remove any leaves, branches, or other debris that can trap moisture on the roof and lead to the growth of moss or mold.

The vast range of colors offered by asphalt shingles make them an excellent choice for any style of house. You can find shingles in shades of browns, greens, grays, and reds to match any exterior color or design. 

Metal Roofs

Choosing the right roof for your new home or renovation can be difficult. There are many choices of material, and each option has pros and cons.

Residential metal roofs are growing in popularity due to their durability and clean look. They're also a great choice for homes with solar panels, since they can help dispel the sun's heat and reduce cooling costs. Metal roofs can be made from aluminum, copper and zinc, and are available in a variety of colors and finishes. There are two main types of metal roofing: shingles and standing seam. Metal shingles are small panels that mimic the appearance of other roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles or wood shakes. They are often painted with "cool pigments" that reflect solar energy, which can help lower your home's cooling costs.

Standing seam metal roofs are long sheets of metal that run from the peak of the roof to the gutters, with vertical seams that are concealed. They are often a good choice for cabins and contemporary home styles, but may not be suitable for older homes with lots of valleys and hips.

Many people worry that a metal roof will be noisier than a shingle or shake roof, since rain and hail can drum on any thin membrane. However, the noise can be minimized by installing the roofing over sound-deadening insulation and solid plywood sheathing. Metal roofs are also more durable than shingle roofs, and can last longer. Some models are designed to last up to half a century.

Some metal roofing is made from recycled materials, which helps reduce environmental impact. Another benefit of metal roofing is that it's extremely fire-resistant. However, it's important to keep in mind that metal can conduct electricity, so it's a good idea to have your roof grounded by a lightning protection company. Unlike asphalt shingles, which must be replaced after a certain amount of time, metal roofs can last for decades with minimal maintenance. A properly installed metal roof by Metal Roofing Albuquerque can also increase your home's resale value. However, the initial cost of a metal roof is more than that of an asphalt shingle roof.

Wood Shingles

A wood shingle is a thin piece of wood that’s used to cover the roofs and walls of buildings for insulation and aesthetic reasons. They’re long-lasting and give a distinct rustic look to a house, though they do require more maintenance than some other roofing materials.

Wood shingles are typically made of cedar or redwood and can be crafted to have an array of textures, styles, and hues to suit the different types of architecture found in residential neighborhoods. They’re a great option for cottage or European-style homes, and they pair beautifully with historic colonial style houses. Wood shingles are also a natural choice for cabins and other rural homes.

There are two basic types of wood shingles: shakes and shingles. Shakes are split from logs and offer a more rustic texture, while shingles are cut and produced with precise sawing. Both are considered to be very attractive, and they’re long-lasting when maintained properly.

The most popular type of wood shingle is called a shingles. They’re often made of cedar and have a unique, dimensional appearance. They’re also extremely durable and provide a high level of protection from the elements, and they pair well with traditional and ranch-style homes.

Other types of residential roofing include metal, tile, and flat roofs. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks, so the best one for you depends on your budget and climate.

Metal roofing is durable and low-maintenance, but it can be a lot more expensive than asphalt shingles. It’s also not ideal for areas that experience a lot of precipitation or snowfall. Tile roofs are a popular choice for Mediterranean-style homes, and they’re durable but require regular cleaning.

Regardless of which type of roofing you choose for your home, it’s important to consult with an expert before making your decision. They can help you choose the right type of shingles for your home, and they’ll be able to explain how each type will perform over time. They’ll also recommend any necessary upgrades or repairs. You’ll be glad you took the time to choose a quality roofing system!

Tile Roofs

Tile roofs are made of clay or concrete tiles and have a rich, luxurious look that enhances a wide variety of architectural styles. They are also more durable than shingle roofs and can last up to 300 years. They are a popular choice for Mediterranean, Spanish, and other traditional European-style homes, but they can also be a perfect fit for Craftsman or rustic homes, as well as sleek contemporary houses.

Tiles are natural materials that don’t deplete resources and can be crushed and recycled after they are removed. They are a green roofing option, and they are also energy efficient compared to standard shingles. They reflect the sun’s rays instead of absorbing its heat, which makes for a cooler home in the summer and lowers your energy bills.

If you’re interested in a tile roof, be sure to work with an experienced, licensed roofer who specializes in installing them. They are not as easy to install as shingle roofs and require special skills to ensure they are placed correctly and secured. A good roofer will also be able to inspect your home’s structural integrity and determine whether it can support the weight of a tile roof or if reinforcement beams must be installed.

Ultimately, the type of residential roofing you choose will come down to your budget and style preferences. Asphalt shingles have been the most common residential roofing material for decades, but newer options are offering homeowners more style choices, better durability, and reduced maintenance. Whatever you decide, be sure to work with Metal Roofing Albuquerque who can provide a complete evaluation of your home and recommend the best solution. Choosing the right roof for your home can add curb appeal, increase your property value, and make it easier to sell when the time comes.

The most common type of residential roofing is asphalt shingles. The affordable, durable roof is available in many styles and colors to match any home. Metal has made a resurgence in the market, offering many style options. These range from standing seam styles to shingle-lookalikes.  Asphalt Shingles If you’re building a new home or replacing…