All materials are not created equal...

 

We at Greener Solutions LLC believe in providing an educational component to products we offer you as our customers. Choosing the right materials, whether it's a roof, floor, or any type of remodel and new construction. We choose materials that are right for your needs, your budget and the environment.  Greener solutions for your health and wallet are important to us.

Asphalt Shingles

Roof Material 101: The Traditional Roofing Materials

 

Shingles - One of the least expensive roofing materials is asphalt shingles. Used today on over 90 percent of residential homes, these shingles have become the standard in the United States. Asphalt shingles typically last anywhere from 20 to 30 years, depending on their quality, which is not as long as most other roofing options — though the typical American will most likely move out of a home before needing to replace the roof a second time. Asphalt shingles require very little maintenance under most circumstances.

Wood Shakes

Slightly more expensive than asphalt shingles are wood — typically cedar — shakes. While a wood roof is sometimes considered a better looking alternative to asphalt, and works well aesthetically on older or classically styled houses, it generally doesn’t last as long. Though wood shakes can last as long as 30 years if installed properly, they typically need replacing within 15 to 20 years. Also, wood shakes may be more prone to catch fire or attract mildew.

Tile

Tile roofing materials are usually made of concrete or clay, and give a house a distinctly different look than other materials. A house with a tile roof is often described as Spanish style. Tiles tend to last longer than asphalt or wood, sometimes holding up well for 40 or 50 years. Tile is usually double or triple the price of asphalt, but can be worth the price in the long run if a house will be lived in for a long period of time. Tile roofing is resistant to fires and other environmental threats, though it is extremely heavy, and should only be installed on homes with solid support structures.

Metal

Metal roofing materials come in many shapes and colors, and for this reason they can provide a level of customization to a house. Though they are expensive, with prices similar to that of tile, metal roofs are quite often guaranteed for at least 50 years. Metal does not collect moss or mildew easily, and doesn’t require much maintenance.

Slate

Slate is perhaps the most durable of all roofing materials. Slate roofs have been known to last 100 years, and sometimes as long as 200. Slate resists fire, mold, insect infestations and a number of other threats. Because of its extreme durability, slate is the most expensive roofing material — and it can be very heavy, often requiring house structures to be reinforced before installation. Slate is generally gray in color, and though its look is unique, it may not be considered aesthetically pleasing to everyone.