Roofing Types: Pros and Cons

As many homeowners know, the options for roofs are endless. If you are in the market for a roof replacement, this guide of the pros and cons of different roofing types should shed some light on any questions you might have. As with anything, we have come to realize that there are pros and cons to weigh. Here, you will learn about all the advantages and disadvantages of multiple styles of roofs and roofing materials so that you can determine the best fit for your needs.

Types of roofing

• EPDM

• Flat Roofing
• Shingle Roofing
• Tile Roofing
• White Membrane Roofing

• Metal Roofing

EPDM
EPDM roofing is one of the most popular roofing options for long-term solutions. They are single-ply membranes and are one of the most sustainable and popular roofing options on the market.

• Pros
  Lower cost compared to other roofing options
  Eco-friendly
  Fire-resistant
  Long-lasting
  Lower energy costs

• Cons
  General installation costs
  Could potentially be fragile in the wrong environment
  Less curb appeal

Flat Roofs
Flat roofs are usually installed on large buildings and outbuildings. If you are considering using this type of roof on a residential building, it’s important to understand the advantages and disadvantages that it can bring.

• Pros
  Easier when performing general maintenance
  Easy access
  Lower installation costs
  Better for fire safety
  Allows optimal use of space
  Great for HVAC installation if placing on the roof

• Cons
  Not good for drainage (this can lead to sitting, and potentially leaks along seams)
  Lack of material options
  No curb appeal for residential homes

Shingle Roofs
Shingle roofs are the most popular option for many homeowners. There are 2 types of shingle roof options; asphalt shingles and composition asphalt/fiberglass shingles.

Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material options. They can withstand extreme and fluctuating weather conditions.

Composition shingles are manufactured with glass fibers and mineral granules. These shingles are lighter than asphalt and less expensive. And for living in Texas, they provide great heat resistance.

• Pros
  Affordable
  Long-lasting (12-17 years)
  Effective
  Variety of color options (per your region)
  Easy to install

• Cons
  Perform low under extreme heat (causing cracking and fading of color)
  Non-Environmentally friendly

Tile Roofs
This type of roofing is usually installed to complement specific home styles (the Mediterranean; etc). However, it’s becoming increasingly more popular than the traditional roof material/style.

Tile Roofing options include:

• Clay
• Shingle
• Shake
• Slate
• Concrete
• Composition Tile

• Pros
  Weather-resistant
  Reduction in energy costs
  Minimal maintenance
  Long-lasting (up to 50 years with proper maintenance)
  Environmentally friendly
  Pest-resistant
  Several different options

• Cons
  Heavy material
  Can be expensive
  Must be properly installed by a professional
  Need to be cleaned to prevent dark streaking

White Membrane Roofs
White membrane roofing (TPO roofing) is a great option for homeowners and business owners alike looking for a more environmentally friendly option for their roof replacement.

• Pros
  Quality protection
  Durable
  Environmentally friendly
  Energy efficient
  Inexpensive cost compared to other roofing options
  Flexible material
  UV resistant/heat reflective

• Cons
  New to the market (they have not undergone the test of time)
  Variations in quality (depending on your contractor)
  Thickness disparities (lasting 10-20 years)
  Surface cracks/flaws
  Seams are visible due to roll size

Metal Roofs
Metal roofing has become increasingly more popular, over 750,000 homeowners in the United States chose metal roofing.

• Pros
  Lasts 10-20 years
  Increase resale value
  Lower home insurance rates
  Durable
  Environmentally friendly
  Energy efficient
  Stylish

• Cons
  Expensive
  Incur damages such as denting
  Higher noise level (some may not see this as a con)

If you are in the market for a new roof but don’t know where to start, give the pros at 1845RM a call! Our certified and highly experienced staff will lead you in the right direction,