Choosing Your Roofing Materials
Living in Colorado, you know that weather can have a significant impact on your roof. From hail damage to snow and ice, your roof must be able to stand up to some of the harshest conditions. While no roofing material is entirely impervious, different types of roofs have different strengths and benefits. Choosing the right roofing material for your home or business isn’t always a simple process, but the more you know about different types of roofing, the better able you are to make an informed decision.
Keep reading to learn how three different types of roofing materials withstand the extreme weather we experience here in Colorado Springs.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt roofing is the most popular type of roofing in the US. It is not only relatively easy and quick to install, but it is a great value for the price and comes in a wide range of colors and shingle styles. Despite being one of the least expensive types of roofing available, asphalt roofing also provides strong protection against a wide range of weather, including rain, snow, hail, and wind. Because they are lightweight and flexible, asphalt roofing can be easily adapted to almost any size or shape of roof. Asphalt shingles are also easy to repair and replace if they do become damaged.
Hail Proof Shingles
While asphalt shingles are generally very durable, hailstorms can weaken and damage even the strongest roofing systems. This is particularly a concern for residents in the Colorado Springs area where hailstorms are the number one cause of roof damage. However, there is something you can do to further protect your home from hail damage: install hail-proof shingles.
Hail-proof shingles are made from rubberized asphalt. This material helps hail bounce off shingles, reducing the likelihood that the hailstones will damage your roof. With hail-proof shingles (sometimes called impact-resistant shingles or class 4 shingles), cracking, punctures, and granule loss are reduced. With the help of hail-proof shingles, your roof is more protected and you save money on repair costs.
To learn more about what you can do to prepare your roof for hail season, review our blog here.
Metal Roofing
One of the most durable types of roofing, metal roofing can last upwards of 50 years. Because of its durability and fire-resistant properties, metal roofing has become popular in both commercial and residential settings. With recent advancements in both paint and coatings for metal roofing, old concerns over rust and corrosion have been eliminated. Furthermore, because metal roofing has minimal seams, it provides excellent protection from moisture and water-related problems.
When it comes to dealing with extreme weather conditions, it is hard to beat metal roofing. In addition to withstanding rain, hail, snow, and ice, metal roofing is even rated for high winds and can withstand winds up to 140 miles per hour. Metal roofs also do well in high temperatures and are resistant to the damaging effects of the sun. Sometimes called “cool roofs,” light-colored or coated metal roofs can reflect the sun’s energy instead of absorbing it and can help improve the energy efficiency of your building.
Stone-Coated Metal Shingles
Though extremely durable, it is important to note that hail can dent metal roofing. However, with stone-coated metal shingles, you can enjoy many of the benefits of metal roofing with the added protection of stone. Not only are stone-coated metal shingles more resistant to impact damage, but they also offer a more provide your building with a more traditional aesthetic than conventional metal roofing.
Slate
Much like metal roofing, slate is naturally fire-resistant and is relatively low maintenance. It also has an exceptional life expectancy, with slate roofs lasting anywhere from 75 to 200 years. Slate is resistant to water damage and algae growth and performs equally well in both cold and hot weather. A high-quality and properly installed slate roof can even stand up to hail damage. This makes slate a strong choice for Colorado Springs residents.
If you decide to install a slate roof, you must work with a licensed and insured professional roofer that is local to the area. Slate roofs are more complicated to install and repair, and improper installation can lead to significant property damage. At Divine Roofing, Inc., all our roofers are highly experienced and have been living and working in the area for years. We only utilize the best materials, and we can ensure that your slate roof is installed correctly.
Stay tuned for Part 2 of How Different Types of Roofing Materials Hold Up to Extreme Weather in which we discuss how commercial roofing materials perform against hail, snow, and wind.