There are, of course, the tried and true roofing materials and types – asphalt, tile/slate, and metal, but did you know about the two newest roofing trends? Let’s discuss all five and see where modern roofing is moving towards in the future with SPC Construction!

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt roofing is the most popular type of roofing for residential buildings and continues to be the first choice for many homeowners. This is, in part, due to the low up-front costs of asphalt roofing, as well as the fact that it is wind repellant, hail resistant, and sun reflecting.

Here is a quick and easy breakdown of asphalt roofing:

·     Pros: Asphalt roofing comes can vary by look and color, allowing you to choose your style. It is also one of the least expensive roofing options.

·     Cons: Asphalt roofing doesn’t last as long as other roofing materials and isn’t as insulating as other options.

·     Style: Asphalt roofing is most commonly used with traditional homes or houses in suburbs, though it can be designed to match almost any style.

·     Cost: Pricing for asphalt roofing can range from under $70 a square to over $125 depending on the style and specifications.

·     Life Span: Asphalt roofing should last around 20 years, though weather, climate, and care can greatly affect this approximation.

Tile & Slate Roofing

Tile and slate roofing upgrades the look of any home, which is why it is so popular, especially in coastal states and cities. In addition to its great looks, tile and slate roofing also insulates well, lasts up to 100 years, is energy efficient, drains water well, is fire resistant, and extremely durable.

·     Pros: Tile and slate roofing is long-lasting and fire-resistant, as well as beautiful, durable, and a better insulator than asphalt.

·     Cons: Tile and slate roofing is quite expensive, though it lasts up to 4 times as long as asphalt.

·     Style: Tile and slate roofing is great for Southwestern, Spanish, and Mediterranean-style homes, though it can work with many other looks as well.

·     Cost: Pricing can range from $300 to $500 a square, however, as it lasts up to 4 times as long, it costs between $75 and $125 per 25 years – essentially equivalent to asphalt.

·     Life Span: Depending on the type of tile and slate it can last anywhere from 40 to 100 years.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofs are beautiful, unique, and extremely resistant to weather. Metal roofs can come in aluminum, copper, stainless steel, or even zinc. Additionally, metal roofs are environmentally friendly and look sleek! Want to learn more? Here’s our metal roof cheat sheet:

·     Pros: Metal roofing is durable, resistant to weather, unique, and lasts longer than asphalt.

·     Cons: Metal roofing might not match every home’s style and is more expensive than asphalt (but less expensive than tile and slate).

·     Style: Metal roofing can look great on beach houses, contemporary or modern homes, bungalows, and cabins – it is also great for areas with extreme weather.

·     Cost: Metal roofing starts around $100 a square but can climb up to $800 a square defendant on materials, style, and qualities.

·     Life Span: Metal roofing lasts 45-75 years, making it very cost effective if you buy on the lower end.

New Trend! Cool Roofs

Cool roofs essentially follow the ‘white T rule’ for summer – meaning you should avoid dark colors when it’s hot out and instead opt for a white t-shirt which will keep you cooler.

Cool roofing systems reflect sunlight and therefore do not absorb heat, thanks to the light color, reflective paint, and white glue.The reflective surface reduces energy and power bills because you can use less AC. The best part? Cool roofing isn’t significantly more expensive and doesn’t have any notable life span differences from asphalt roofing.

The new cool roofing is essentially free money, in fact, many utility companies offer rebates when you switch to this option.

New Trend! Living Roofs

Living roofs, or green roofs, are easy to recognize due to their layer of grass, plants, and vegetation. But these roofing styles actually have multiple layers beneath what you can see, some of those layers often are: engineered soil, protective fabric, waterproof protection or membrane, and your ‘green layer’ or the living part (plants, grasses, flowers,etc).

Living roofs are good for the environment and work well in rural areas. They also save you money as they are relatively inexpensive and a great insulator, saving you on energy costs!

Are You Looking to Update Your Roof? Contact SPC Construction & Roofing Today!

Whether you like traditional asphalt, high-end tile and slate, or modern metal – or if you want to try new trends like cool roofs or living roofs – SPC Construction & Roofing would love to speak with you and help you obtain your roofing dreams!

Contact us today!

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