Whether it’s your home or workplace, the truth is your roof is one of the most important elements of the building. Without a strong, sturdy roof then snow, rain, branches and debris could penetrate into the building, causing a range of problems including coldness, leaks, mould and mildew.

If you’re looking for a new roofing option, you might be confused by all the options. Well fear not, as we’re on hand with a list of the main types of roofing solutions, as well as their pros and cons.

After reading this blog, you should have a good idea which roofing type is for you, and we’ll also explain the importance of professional installation.

Asphalt Shingles

Hands down the most popular choice when it comes to roofing options, asphalt shingles offer affordability and versatility for home and business owners.

One attribute that makes them enduringly popular is asphalt shingles come in a wide range of colours and styles, meaning they can be tailored to suit a range of architectural designs. 

In addition, asphalt shingles are typically made of fibreglass or organic materials, which provides decent fire resistance and makes them relatively easy to install.

One drawback with this roofing type is durability. Over time, harsh weather conditions can cause them to deteriorate faster than other materials. Having said that, you should still get a good number of years from them, so considering their low price point and versatility, this may still be an attractive option.

Slate Tiles

Looking for a roofing solution that exudes timeless elegance, sophistication and luxury? Then slate tiles hit the mark each and every time!

As well as looking to part and suiting a range of architectural styles, slate tiles are insanely durable and will last potentially centuries – much longer than you’ll be around to see them!

Their unrivalled aesthetic beauty, in addition to their exceptional fire resistance and low maintenance requirements, makes them one of the premium options around.

The biggest drawback to slate tiles and the one that puts many off is the cost. This is one of the most expensive options, given the high price point of the materials, as well as the labour involved in getting the heavy tiles up to your roof. So if you’re on a tight budget then these may be slightly out of your price range.

Metal Roofing

If you’re on the hunt for a roofing solution that provides durability and eco-friendliness, with its longevity and sustainability, metal roofing is a great option.

Metal roofs can be made from a number of materials, including steel, aluminium or copper, which all come with their own set of pros and cons. However, they all excel in resisting fire, mildew, and rot, while offering an impressive lifespan that should see them last potentially decades longer than other options such as asphalt.

To reflect this increased longevity and higher material costs, a metal roof will set you back more. But you should look at this as an investment as you’ll reap the rewards for years to come and it could even enhance the value of your home or business premises.

Clay Tiles

If you’re searching for a roofing solution to channel that Mediterranean coastal town vibe, clay tiles can do just that. And that’s not all they’re good for, as these tiles are also incredibly durable, meaning they can withstand harsh climates and avoid decay or deterioration, so they’ll last for decades with minimal maintenance.

One of the main cons of clay tiles is their heavier weight means they require sturdy support, which will come at a cost if additional work needs to be carried out. Likewise, the cost of the materials is also higher than some other options, so if you’re on a low budget then they may not be for you.

The exotic aesthetic means they might not suit all homes, too. If you’re living on a residential inner city estate, as opposed to a seaside dwelling, then sadly a clay tile roof will probably look out of place.

Rubber Roofing

Last but not least it’s the rubber roof, which offers a convenient combination of flexibility and affordability. 

Typically crafted from recycled materials, rubber roofing options are usually an eco-friendly choice, too, and with incredible resistance to extreme weather and tears, it’s easy to see why they’re an increasingly popular choice among home and business owners.

In the past, the biggest downside to rubber roofing was its visual appeal, or lack thereof! However, these days many rubber options can be painted with acrylic, giving you more control over the aesthetic of your roof and allowing you to make it pretty much any colour you like!

Importance Of Professional Installation

So now we’ve been over the most common roofing types, let’s talk about installation. Having your roof correctly installed is equally if not more important than the materials you choose.

Simply put, professional installation is a must and the importance of hiring a reputable company to carry out the work cannot be overstated. Regardless of which material you choose, without the expertise of skilled professionals to ensure a secure, watertight seal, which maximises the roof’s longevity and performance, the end results will be poor.

When a professional meticulously installs your roof, this not only safeguards the building from harsh weather and cold temperatures, but it also enhances its structural integrity, providing peace of mind to you and your family inside.

So those are the main types of roofs, their main pros and cons and the types of setting they work best in. UIf you’re looking for a cheap, affordable option and you don’t mind it lasting only 15 years or so, asphalt shingles may work out well. Alternatively, for something more attractive and durable but with a much heftier price tag, go for slate or clay tiles.

And lastly, for something that combines everything – value, affordability, versatility and durability – rubber roofing may be just what you’re after.