Roofing Types: Pros and Cons

As many homeowners know, the options for roofs are endless. If you are in the market for a roof replacement, this guide of the pros and cons of different roofing types should shed some light on any questions you might have. As with anything, we have come to realize that there are pros and cons to weigh. Here, you will learn about all the advantages and disadvantages of multiple styles of roofs and roofing materials so that you can determine the best fit for your needs.Types of roofing

EPDM
Flat Roofing
Shingle Roofing
Tile Roofing
White Membrane Roofing
Metal Roofing

EPDM EPDM roofing is one of the most popular roofing options for long-term solutions. They are single-ply membranes and are one of the most sustainable and popular roofing options on the market.

Pros Lower cost compared to other roofing options Eco-friendly Fire-resistant Long-lasting Lower energy costs

Cons General installation costs Could potentially be fragile in the wrong environment Less curb appeal

Flat Roofs Flat roofs are usually installed on large buildings and outbuildings. If you are considering using this type of roof on a residential building, it’s important to understand the advantages and disadvantages that it can bring.

Pros Easier when performing general maintenance Easy access Lower installation costs Better for fire safety Allows optimal use of space Great for HVAC installation if placing on the roof

Cons Not good for drainage (this can lead to sitting, and potentially leaks along seams) Lack of material options No curb appeal for residential homes

Shingle Roofs Shingle roofs are the most popular option for many homeowners. There are 2 types of shingle roof options; asphalt shingles and composition asphalt/fiberglass shingles.Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material options. They can withstand extreme and fluctuating weather conditions.Composition shingles are manufactured with glass fibers and mineral granules. These shingles are lighter than asphalt and less expensive. And for living in Texas, they provide great heat resistance.

Pros Affordable Long-lasting (12-17 years) Effective Variety of color options (per your region) Easy to install

Cons Perform low under extreme heat (causing cracking and fading of color) Non-Environmentally friendly

Tile Roofs This type of roofing is usually installed to complement specific home styles (the Mediterranean; etc). However, it’s becoming increasingly more popular than the traditional roof material/style.Tile Roofing options include:

Clay
Shingle
Shake
Slate
Concrete
Composition Tile

Pros Weather-resistant Reduction in energy costs Minimal maintenance Long-lasting (up to 50 years with proper maintenance) Environmentally friendly Pest-resistant Several different options

Cons Heavy material Can be expensive Must be properly installed by a professional Need to be cleaned to prevent dark streaking

White Membrane Roofs White membrane roofing (TPO roofing) is a great option for homeowners and business owners alike looking for a more environmentally friendly option for their roof replacement.

Pros Quality protection Durable Environmentally friendly Energy efficient Inexpensive cost compared to other roofing options Flexible material UV resistant/heat reflective

Cons New to the market (they have not undergone the test of time) Variations in quality (depending on your contractor) Thickness disparities (lasting 10-20 years) Surface cracks/flaws Seams are visible due to roll size

Metal Roofs Metal roofing has become increasingly more popular, over 750,000 homeowners in the United States chose metal roofing.

Pros Lasts 10-20 years Increase resale value Lower home insurance rates Durable Environmentally friendly Energy efficient Stylish

Cons Expensive Incur damages such as denting Higher noise level (some may not see this as a con)

If you are in the market for a new roof but don’t know where to start, give the pros at ROOFMASTERS a call! Our certified and highly experienced staff will lead you in the right direction,