TYPES OF ROOFING: SHINGLES, TORCH-ON & METAL
When it comes to selecting the right roofing material for your property, it’s essential to consider factors such as durability, aesthetics, and maintenance requirements. Three popular roofing materials—shingles, torch-on, and metal—each offer unique benefits and are suitable for different types of buildings and climates. Here’s a detailed look at these options to help you make an informed decision.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is known for its longevity, durability, and modern aesthetic appeal. It is suitable for both residential and commercial properties and is available in various metals such as steel, aluminum, copper, and zinc.
Types:
Steel Roofing: Often coated with a protective layer of zinc (galvanized) or a blend of aluminum and zinc (galvalume) to prevent rusting and increase durability.
Aluminum Roofing: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and ideal for coastal areas where saltwater exposure is a concern.
Copper Roofing: Offers a distinctive and attractive appearance that develops a natural patina over time, highly durable but more expensive.
Zinc Roofing: Known for its long lifespan and ability to self-heal minor scratches and abrasions over time.
Benefits:
Longevity: Metal roofs can last 50 years or more with proper maintenance.
Energy Efficiency: Reflects sunlight, reducing cooling costs in hot climates.
Fire Resistance: Non-combustible, providing excellent protection against fire.
Eco-Friendly: Often made from recycled materials and fully recyclable at the end of their lifespan.
Shingles
Shingles are one of the most commonly used roofing materials, especially for residential properties. They are available in a variety of materials, including asphalt, wood, and composite, each offering its own set of benefits.
Types:
Asphalt Shingles: These are the most popular due to their affordability, ease of installation, and variety of colors and styles. They provide good weather resistance and a lifespan of 20-30 years.
Wood Shingles: Known for their natural beauty and charm, wood shingles are typically made from cedar, redwood, or pine. They offer excellent insulation but require more maintenance and are susceptible to fire.
Composite Shingles: Made from a blend of materials such as fiberglass, plastic, and recycled products, composite shingles are durable and mimic the look of wood or slate. They are low-maintenance and environmentally friendly.
Benefits:
Cost-Effective: Asphalt shingles, in particular, are budget-friendly and widely available.
Versatile: Available in various styles, colors, and textures to match any architectural design.
Easy to Install: Lightweight and straightforward to install, reducing labor costs and time.
Torch-On Roofing
Torch-on roofing, also known as torch-down roofing, is a type of modified bitumen roofing system commonly used for flat or low-slope roofs. It involves the application of layers of asphalt and polymer sheets that are bonded together using a torch.
Types:
Two-Layer System: Consists of a base sheet and a cap sheet, providing a durable and waterproof surface.
Three-Layer System: Includes an additional layer for extra protection and longevity, ideal for roofs with heavy foot traffic or harsh weather conditions.
Benefits:
Durability: Highly resistant to UV rays, weathering, and mechanical damage, making it ideal for flat roofs.
Waterproof: Provides an excellent barrier against water infiltration, reducing the risk of leaks.
Low Maintenance: Requires minimal maintenance once installed, making it cost-effective over the long term.
Decide what type of roofing is right for you
Choosing the right roofing material depends on various factors, including your budget, the architectural style of your building, and the local climate. Contact our team of experts to discover what style or roofing is the right fit for your home or building. We