Homeowners in Severna Park, Maryland know that choosing a replacement roofing material for their home is no small feat. With a variety of roofing materials to choose from, the options can feel a bit overwhelming. The roofing experts at American Remodel have come together to discuss the pros and cons of each roofing replacement material.
Asphalt Roof Replacement
Here are the benefits of an asphalt roof replacement:
- Affordable
Asphalt is by far one of the most economical options, making it accessible for homeowners in Severna Park MD.
- Versatile
Asphalt roofing comes in hundreds of colors and styles to choose from, even allowing homeowners to mimic the look of other, more costly roofing materials at a lower rate.
Here are the downsides of an replacement your roof with asphalt:
- Requires periodic maintenance
It is not uncommon for an asphalt roof to require maintenance due to weather taking off shingles or damaging parts of the roof.
- Low Insulation
Shingles that are loose from weather won’t insulate as well, potentially raising your heating or cooling bill during the more extreme weather month.
- Not Environmentally Friendly
Based in petroleum and fiberglass, asphalt shingle production depends on fossil fuels. They’re also nearly impossible to recycle, unlike other roofing replacement options.
- Shorter Lifespan
Unlike its metal and slate counterparts who last for life, asphalt roofing only has around a 15-50 year lifespan.
Metal Roof Replacement
Metal roofing has been growing in popularity in recent years. Here are the benefits of choosing a metal roof:
- Low maintenance
Metal roofing requires minimal maintenance, making it virtually hassle-free after installation.
- Long-lasting
With proper care, metal roofing can last up to 75 years. This means that homeowners can enjoy it their entire lives and, most likely, use it to increase home value when it’s time to sell.
- Eco-friendly
Metal roofing is composed of 25% or more recycled materials and is entirely recyclable after its lifespan is over. Get a free quote today on your new, environmentally-friendly metal roof.
- Energy Efficient
The reflective properties in metal roofing lower your heating and cooling costs, saving you money in the long run. This happens because metal actually reflects solar heat away from the building instead of absorbing it, resulting in up to a 50% energy savings.
- Comes in a Variety of Styles
Homeowners can choose from a variety of metals, including steel, copper, tin, aluminum and more, with each providing the home with its own unique design. Moreso, each of the metals come in various finishes, colors and shapes, allowing you to fully customize how your roof compliments the rest of the house.
Cons
As with any type of roof replacement, there are also considerations like noise and other factors that may present downsides to metal roofs.
- Noisy
While some people adore the sound of the rain on a tin roof, it’s not for everyone. Especially if you have little ones or pets in your home who are startled by the noise, or perhaps need quiet to effectively work from home, a metal roof might not be your best option.
- Easily Damaged
Metal roofing is relatively easy to dent with fallen branches or even strong hail. This could lead to more repairs needed, which can end up costing you both time and money.
Slate Roof Replacement
Slate roofing replacements are the most popular option for roofs throughout Anne Arundel County, and for good reason. From the lifespan to style, here are the benefits when choosing slate.
- Stylish
Most Severna Park homes have a modern style to them, which is perfectly paired by a slate roof. This classic look is available in various colors, thicknesses and widths.
- Lasts for Life
Slate roofing has a lifespan of 75-100+ years, making it, by far, the most long-lasting of all roofing materials.
- Durable
Because slate is made of stone, it is unaffected by most weather conditions. Best of all, it is entirely non-combustible, i.e. fireproof.
- Low maintenance
Slate is incredibly dense, meaning that it absorbs minimal water or moisture, therefore causing no mold or mildew. It is also unaffected by extreme weather, so there won’t be any repairs needed after a big storm.
Is there a downside to choose slate roofing over other options like asphalt and metal? The short answer is yes. But remember to make a list of your priorities when it comes to roofing. Are you replacing the roof so you can sell your home? Are you most interested in a roof that has the longest lifespan?
- Bigger Initial Investment
Because of its long lifespan and virtual indestructibility, slate roofing is the most expensive option. Not only is the material costly, but it requires a roofing company with experience in slate roofing for installation, as not everyone can work with slate.
- Heavy
Slate is heavy and not all homes can handle the weight of a slate roof, meaning that it’s not an option for every Severna Park home.
In summary, homeowners should weigh the pros and cons of various roof types when deciding upon which one is the right version for them. Cost, lifespan, durability and various factors will determine which type of roof replacement is best for you! As GAF Certified Roofers, the American Remodel team welcomes questions and concerns related to Severna Park roof replacements. Please contact us or request a free quote!