A roofing material can look great on a sample board and still be the wrong fit for a particular building. Start with the roof’s shape, structure, condition, and your priorities.
Compare the Material and the Assembly
Asphalt shingles offer many appearance and product choices. Metal systems bring their own attachment and detailing requirements. Tile requires careful attention to structural suitability and the layers beneath it. Low-slope roofs need systems designed for that roof configuration.
Asphalt Shingles
There’s a reason that many people choose asphalt shingles for their roofs. In addition to being inexpensive, they’re easy to replace in the event of a storm, and they come in a great selection of colors. In other words, they’re a great all-around choice that many people return to for all of their roofing needs.
Cedar Shakes
There’s no doubt about it — cedar shake roofs are incredibly beautiful. In fact, they’re probably the roofing material that draws in the eye the most. Thankfully, they’re also durable and resistant to Colorado storms. Unfortunately, they’re on the more expensive side and they require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best.
Metal Roofing
If you’re looking for the most durable roof out there, metal is probably the smartest way to go. In fact, their lifespan can be up to 70 years — and that means they can truly last a lifetime. Better yet, many metal roofs come with an unbeatable warranty. As you can probably expect, metal roofing is also quite expensive. Is the trade off worth it? That depends on your specific situation.
Tile Roofs
If you’re looking for a roof that’s environmentally friendly, requires little maintenance, and will stand the test of time, a tile roof may be the solution. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the cost of tile roofing is high, and not every type of roof can accommodate tiles.
Put the Tradeoffs on Paper
Ask about installed cost, maintenance, repair options, weight, appearance, and warranty terms. Compare complete scopes that include relevant deck work, flashing, penetrations, removal, and disposal.
Be Careful with Lifespan Promises
Performance depends on the product, installation, roof assembly, exposure, and maintenance. A broad lifespan claim is not a guarantee for your property.
Want help comparing roofing materials in Colorado or Wyoming? Schedule an assessment and bring the questions you actually care about. We’ll talk through the options.
