Your roof protects your home from the elements, ensures comfort, and enhances its overall aesthetics. Regarding residential roofing in Calgary, selecting the right material is a crucial decision that can impact your home’s longevity, energy efficiency, and curb appeal. Learn about the various roofing material options available to help you make an informed choice for your home. You can ensure a successful roofing project by consulting and hiring reputable Calgary roofing contractors about your choice of material and how they can help you.
Expert Calgary Roofing Contractors on Types of Roofing Materials
The diverse roofing materials available today offer various choices, each with unique advantages and drawbacks. From the classic affordability of asphalt shingles to the elegance of slate, the eco-friendliness of wood, and the longevity of metal, the roofing options are vast. Understanding their characteristics will help you discern what type of roofing material would suit your needs best. Check out the most common materials used for residential roofing in Calgary here:
#1 – Asphalt Shingles: Classic & Cost-Effective
Asphalt shingles are North America’s most common roofing material, known for their versatility and affordability.
Advantages:
- Cost-Effective: Asphalt shingles are budget-friendly and offer various options to fit various budgets.
- Durability: High-quality asphalt shingles can last 20-30 years or more.
- Aesthetic Variety: Available in numerous styles and colours to suit your home’s design.
Disadvantages:
- Limited Lifespan: Asphalt shingles have a relatively shorter lifespan than other materials, typically lasting 20-30 years.
- Susceptible to Weathering: They can be prone to damage from severe weather conditions like strong winds and hail.
- Environmental Impact: Asphalt shingles contribute to landfill waste when replaced.
#2 – Metal Roofing: Durable & Energy-Efficient
Metal roofing has gained popularity for its durability and energy-efficient properties.
Advantages:
- Longevity: Metal roofs can last 50 years or more with minimal maintenance.
- Energy Efficiency: Reflective metal roofs can reduce cooling costs in hot climates.
- Resistant to Elements: They resist fire, rot, and insect damage.
Disadvantages:
- Higher Initial Cost: Metal roofing can have a higher upfront cost than asphalt shingles, although it often pays off in the long run.
- Noise: Some people find metal roofs noisy during heavy rain or hailstorms.
- Compatibility Issues: Installing metal roofs over certain existing materials can be challenging.
#3 – Wood Shingles or Shakes: Natural Beauty
Wood shingles or shakes offer a natural and timeless aesthetic for your home.
Advantages:
- Natural Beauty: Creates a rustic, charming appearance.
- Insulation: Provides good insulation properties.
- Environmentally Friendly: Sustainably sourced wood can be an eco-friendly choice.
Disadvantages:
- Maintenance: Wood shingles and shakes require regular maintenance, including staining and sealing, to prevent rot and insect infestations.
- Fire Risk: Wood roofing materials can be a fire hazard, although treated options are available.
- Shorter Lifespan: They typically have a shorter lifespan than materials like metal or slate.
#4 – Slate Roofing: Elegance & Longevity
Slate roofing is a type of roofing material that is made from natural slate stone. It has been used as a roofing material for centuries and is known for its elegance and remarkable longevity.
Advantages:
- Elegant Appearance: Slate roofing adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to your home.
- Durability: Can last over 100 years when properly installed and maintained.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal maintenance and is resistant to rot and pests.
Disadvantages:
- Cost: Slate roofing is one of the most expensive options due to its premium material and labour costs.
- Weight: Slate is heavy, and some roofing structures may require additional reinforcement.
- Fragility: Walking on a slate roof can cause damage, making maintenance more challenging.
#5 – Concrete or Clay Tiles: Mediterranean Flair
You can always opt for concrete or clay tiles. With this roofing material, Calgary roofing contractors can offer a distinctive look to your home with a Mediterranean or Spanish influence.
Advantages:
- Aesthetic Appeal: Tiles provide a unique and eye-catching appearance.
- Longevity: Can last 50 years or more.
- Fire Resistance: Tiles are fire-resistant and require little maintenance.
Disadvantages:
- Weight: Like slate, concrete and clay tiles are heavy and may require additional roof support.
- Cost: They can be cost-prohibitive for some homeowners due to the expense of materials and installation.
- Fragility: Similar to slate, walking on these tiles can lead to breakage.
#6 – Composite Roofing: The Best of Both Worlds
Composite roofing materials, such as composite shingles or tiles, combine the advantages of various materials.
Advantages:
- Versatility: Offers various styles that mimic wood, slate, or other materials.
- Durability: Composite materials are engineered for longevity.
- Low Maintenance: Resistant to rot and insect damage.
Disadvantages:
- Cost: While they are often more affordable than their natural counterparts, composite materials can still be relatively expensive.
- Appearance: Some homeowners may prefer the authentic look of natural materials over composite imitations.
- Longevity: Composite materials may have a shorter lifespan than natural materials like slate.
Choosing the Right Roofing Material for Calgary’s Climate
Calgary’s climate is characterized by cold winters, hot summers, and significant temperature fluctuations. When selecting a roofing material, it’s essential to consider the local climate to ensure your roof can withstand Calgary’s weather conditions.
- Cold Resistance: Choose materials that can withstand freezing temperatures and heavy snow loads, such as metal roofing or asphalt shingles.
- Insulation: Opt for roofing materials with good insulation properties to keep your home warm during winter and cool during summer.
- Snow Shedding: Consider materials with a steep pitch to facilitate snow shedding and prevent ice dams.
- Wind Resistance: Calgary can experience strong winds, so select wind-resistant materials, such as metal roofing.
Why Hire Reputable Calgary Roofing Contractors
Selecting the right roofing material is the first step in ensuring a successful roofing project for your home. Equally important is choosing reputable Calgary roofing contractors to handle the installation or repair.
- Expertise: Experienced contractors deeply understand Calgary’s climate and can recommend the most suitable materials and installation techniques.
- Quality Installation: Professional contractors ensure proper installation, preventing leaks and other issues resulting from improper work.
- Safety: Roofing projects can be hazardous, and professionals have the necessary safety equipment and training to avoid accidents.
- Warranty: Reputable contractors often provide warranties on their workmanship, giving you peace of mind.
Have Calgary Roofing Contractors Help You Find the Right Material
Choosing the right roofing material for your home is a decision that should take into account your budget, climate considerations, and aesthetic preferences. Whether you opt for asphalt shingles, metal roofing, wood shakes, or any other material, the key is to work with reputable Calgary roofing contractors who can ensure a successful roofing project from start to finish. Your roof is an investment in your home’s longevity, energy efficiency, and overall appeal, so choose wisely and prioritize quality and durability.
H&J Roofing is a Calgary roofing company you can trust for good old-fashioned craftsmanship & service. With over 20 years of experience, we’re the Calgary roofing contractors you can trust. From fixing eavestrough in Calgary to more complex roofing repair in Calgary, our approach to residential roofing in Calgary is to protect your biggest investment – your home. We ensure this by offering top-quality roofing materials at competitive prices by carrying Hardie board in Calgary. As proud Hardie board suppliers in Calgary, we’re the go-to siding company in Calgary for strengthening people’s homes. Whether you need a sloped or flat roofer in Calgary for roof replacement, contact us for a free quote at (587) 433-9746 or [email protected].
