There are many options when it comes to choosing the right type of roofing material for your home. Each material has its strengths and weaknesses and should be thoroughly considered by every homeowner. Here are a few pros and cons of the different residential roof types:
3-Tab Shingles
3-tab shingles are the most common asphalt shingle installed on residential homes in the U.S. Three-tab shingles are flat in nature, and have an average lifespan of 20-25 years. These shingles have the lowest upfront cost but have the shortest lifespan compared to almost every other roofing material. Additionally, the 3-tab system will require maintenance every couple of years to ensure performance and extend the life of the shingle. For most roofs in Atlanta older than 10 years, this is the most common type of roof installed.
Architectural Shingles
Architectural shingles are gaining popularity as a great mid-range option when it comes to choosing a shingle type for your home. These shingles have several shingle strips laminated together to give the shingle a dimensional look. The lifespan of this shingle is 25-30 years, which is 5+ years longer than 3-tab shingles. The additional material and manufacturing techniques make this shingle slightly more expensive than 3-tab, but it is the most commonly installed shingle today in Atlanta.
Designer Shingles
Another excellent choice for your Atlanta home is designer shingles. Think the durability and warranty of architectural roofing, but with the added benefit of an increased number of shapes, colors, and designs. These roofs are ideal for those who want a beautiful aesthetic without sacrificing quality. These shingles are found in the high-end suburbs of Atlanta, including Alpharetta, Sandy Springs, Dunwoody, and Roswell. In fact, designer roofing is often the most sought-after for luxury real estate projects. But that also explains one of the biggest downsides to designer roofing: the price, which can run three or more times higher than 3-tab shingles.
Cedar Roofing
Cedar roofing is a choice for homeowners who would like to use a natural product on their home. Not only does this natural material hold up an average of 10 years longer than asphalt shingles, but it is also better rated for areas prone to significant storm damage. Cedar shake is also energy-efficient and considered to be an attractive roofing material. The unfortunate downside to cedar is that it requires much more upkeep in order to reduce things like moss, mold, and algae growth. It is also more expensive to install and repair than other roofing options since you cannot walk on the shingles to perform repairs.
Metal Roofing
Another popular roofing choice for Atlanta homeowners is metal roofing. Available in vertical panels or shingles, it has a durability lifespan of nearly 50 years. Plus, it won’t burn and it easily resists high winds. The only real downside to metal roofing besides its price is the noise factor during storms, which can be a turn off for many property owners. These are the most commonly installed roofs on farmhouses in Milton, Alpharetta, and the rural suburbs of Georgia.
Slate Roofing
The biggest benefit to slate roofing is durability. Slate tiles are known to last more than a century, meaning any upkeep is limited. However, the biggest downside to slate is that it is bulky and easily damaged in bad weather. It is also the most expensive roofing material you can choose. This roofing material is found on high-end homes in Buckhead, Sandy Springs, Virginia Highlands, and other high-end markets.
Of course, choosing the right roof takes a fair amount of weighing the pros and cons of the various types. It is best to speak with a licensed roofing contractor to determine which option is best for your needs.
Ready to get the conversation started? Contact our knowledgeable and friendly Bird’s Eye Roofing team today to schedule a free consultation.