San Diego Roofing Types

Roofing is available in a wide range of types to meet the budget and personal tastes of any San Diego homeowner. When considering a new roof for your home, there are pros and cons to each type of roofing available. Maintenance, energy-efficiency, cost and even environmental impact can all be factors you may want to consider. A new roof is a major investment that can be expected to last you for at least 20 years with proper maintenance under most conditions. If you need assistance in choosing the best roofing for your home, we advise contacting a San Diego roofing contractor – they can make the best recommendations for your needs and install your new roof as well.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt or composition shingles are the most commonly installed type of roofing since they are inexpensive and easy to install when compared to other roofing types. They’re readily available in a wide range of colors and are generally well-suited to a variety of homes, plus they are fire-resistant. On the downside, asphalt shingles are typically vulnerable to being torn off in high winds and they don’t last very long when compared to other roofing types – an average asphalt shingle roof will last approximately 15-30 years. In addition, they are not very environmentally-friendly, but some manufacturers offer shingles made with recycled materials.

Wooden Shakes

Wooden shakes are a very attractive option for roofing. They are typically available in a wide range of woods including cedar, redwood and pine. They can be more energy-efficient than other roofing types since the wood will act as an insulator and air can circulate under the shakes, allowing for better ventilation of the spaces under the roof. However, wooden shakes are very susceptible to rotting or insect damage, requiring that they be regularly inspected and maintained. They typically are not rated for fire-resistance although some shakes are treated with fire-resistant compounds.

Clay Tiles

Clay tiles are very popular, especially in the Southwestern US. Typically, a clay tile roof will last for a very long time since it won’t rot or burn and will not attract insects. Additionally, a light-colored clay tile roof can reflect a good portion of the sun’s heat, making your home much cooler. On the downside, clay tiles are very heavy and your home may not be able to support the weight, plus tiles can be easily broken if anyone needs to go up on your roof.

Slate

Slate is another very attractive option for roofing that offers many of the same advantages that clay tile does and can be expected to last for at least 100 years under ideal conditions. However, slate is very expensive compared to other roofing options and like tile – is very heavy and can be easily broken. Color choices can be a bit limited as well since slate is a natural stone and not a man-made product.

Metal

Metal is one other excellent choice for roofing that offers a number of advantages – it is very lightweight, will not rot or burn, is very heat-reflective and very low-maintenance. A metal roof is also very environmentally-friendly – the steel used is typically comprised of a good portion of recycled metal. However, a metal roof can be very expensive compared to other roofing options.

For assistance in choosing the best material for your new roof, we recommend contacting a San Diego roofing company. They can recommend the best roofing materials for your needs and budget and install your new roof for you as well.