Have you made the significant decision that you need a roof replacement? 

If so, we applaud you for making that wise choice! 

Many homeowners make the costly error of putting off replacing their roofs. Finally, they must repair water damage that could have been avoided. 

One of the first things to do is to decide what roofing materials will work best for the project. So, which roofing material should you choose? 

Here, the Watkins Construction & Roofing team will help you make the best decision regarding your roofing material.

Materials to Consider for Your Roof Replacement

• Asphalt shingles

Asphalt shingles are still widely used across the United States. They are relatively low-priced, are simple to install, and are available in many colors. Besides, premium architectural shingles have a far longer lifespan than the more common 3-tab shingles. Likewise, shingle roofs are often easier to fix than other roofing materials.

• Wood Shakes 

Manufacturers can make shakes from many kinds of wood. However, the western red cedar is by far the most common. They make shingles and shakes by cutting and shaping genuine wood.

For generations, the rustic appearance of wood shakes roofs has been a selling point. Roofing producers add preservatives and flame retardants to modern shakes to make them more durable and less flammable. Also, people value the renewable nature of employing trees as the roofing material.

• Clay Tiles

Roofing industries shape and burn earthen clays into repetitive forms to ensure durability when producing clay tiles. These tiles are famous for their ability to withstand the effects of the sun, rain, and strong winds. Clay tile is more expensive than other alternatives. But it may survive for half a century or more if you maintain it properly. 

Clay roofing often requires less upkeep than other materials. One disadvantage of clay is the additional weight it places on your roof. Indeed, it may require the installation of new supports.

• Concrete Tiles

Concrete tiles are as functional and durable as clay tiles. Concrete has the benefit of being a more cost-effective substitute for clay. Likewise, the number of concrete profile styles and color variations available is far greater than in clay. 

Concrete tiles are heavier than clay ones. Therefore, your roof may need additional support if you decide to go with them. Besides, regular maintenance is also necessary because of the concrete natural propensity to absorb water.

• Slate

Slate is one of the more aesthetically pleasing and long-lasting options for residential roofing. It is a fireproof, pest-proof, and watertight material. Even though slate is challenging to work with and may be costly, it keeps its original beauty and usefulness for generations.

• Metal

There is a solid reason why residential metal roofing is the fastest-growing segment of the roofing industry. When compared to asphalt shingles and other roofing materials, metal is far easier on the body and the environment. 

Metal roofs do not need extra support for the roof’s structure and are less expensive than slate or other types of tiles. A metal roof can save you money on energy bills because of the metal’s inherent reflectivity.

• Low-Slope and Flat Roofing

Usually, we commonly see flat and low-slope roofs on commercial buildings. But they can also be a good choice for some types of homes. Flat and low-slope roofs are popular because they are inexpensive to build, and we can use them for several purposes. EPDM membrane, PVC membrane, and modified bitumen cap sheet roofing are among the most used materials for flat roofs.

• Synthetic Roofs

Finally, it is crucial to understand the value of synthetic roofing materials. For instance, DaVinci Roofscapes sells goods crafted from virgin resins they design to seem like slate or cedar. You cannot detect the difference in color or texture. Besides, producers built synthetic roofing to last longer with less upkeep. The lifetime warranty on this DaVinci product can reach up to 50 years.

Work with Reliable Local Roofing Companies

Watkins Construction and Roofing can provide you with the help you need. Getting in touch with us can be done by calling us at 251-299-8151. We service areas in Gulf Shores, Spanish Fort, Foley, Fairhope, Robertsdale, and Orange Beach, AL.