A good roof protects the occupants of a building and adds to curb appeal. It should also be easy to inspect and maintain.
Missing shingles or extensive moss growth should prompt an inspection by a professional roofer to determine the extent of the damage. Flashing around chimneys, vent pipes and skylights should be examined to ensure it is secure. Visit bearsvalleyroofing.ca to learn more.
Clay tiles offer an elegant, earthy look and are available in many different colors. They may require a higher upfront cost but can last much longer than other roofing materials, resulting in a better return on investment. Concrete tiles are less expensive than clay and can be molded to mimic the appearance of other materials, making them more versatile. Both types are durable and highly weather-resistant.
Both clay and concrete roof tiles need a minimum of maintenance to keep them in good condition. Regular cleaning and sealing can prevent mold and mildew growth and staining. A yearly visual inspection by a professional roofing contractor can identify cracks, chips, and areas where the tiles are loose or displaced. Replacing these tiles promptly can prevent water leaks.
Tiles that have been exposed to prolonged moisture might, over time, develop moss or lichen (more so on clay than concrete), which needs to be removed as quickly as possible to prevent damage. Both types are susceptible to algae growth, which can be prevented with a periodic cleaning with a low-pressure power washer and a special solution.
While both clay and concrete tiles are resistant to rot, they can crack or break as a result of impacts or extreme weather conditions. This can lead to roof leaks or other structural problems, so it’s important to have any cracked tiles replaced as soon as possible.
Both types of tiles are also heavier than other roofing materials, so their installation requires a stronger roof structure. If you’re installing a concrete or clay tile roof on an older home, this could mean additional reinforcement.
Both clay and concrete tiles are a natural choice for environmentally-conscious homeowners, as they don’t contain any synthetic materials or chemicals that might be harmful to the environment. They’re also more energy-efficient than other roofing materials, which means they can help lower your energy costs. With proper care and maintenance, both clay and concrete tiles can last 50 years or more.
Slate
Slate is a fine-grained, clayey metamorphic rock that cleaves easily into thin sheets with great tensile strength. It is one of the most durable roofing materials available and has a very long life span when properly maintained. Its insulating properties help to lower energy costs, as well as resisting freezing and thawing. Slate is often used as a roof covering, although it can also be found in flooring and wall coverings.
In addition to being used for roofing, slate is a popular choice for exterior paving, dimension stone and decorative aggregate. It has been used for billiard tables, student writing slates and chalkboards, whetstones, cemetery markers and even to make turkey calls! Its use as a building material dates back thousands of years.
Due to the high cost of slate, it has traditionally been reserved for higher-end construction and prestige architecture. It requires skilled installation and repairs, and is best left to a professional who understands the unique qualities of slate.
The thickness of slate can vary significantly from piece to piece, resulting in gaps between tiles that must be sealed with mortar. Typically, this is done by hand and a special tool called a scutch. When it is done properly, the gaps are virtually undetectable.
As with other natural stone, the porosity of slate makes it prone to staining from water penetration. This can be prevented by applying a penetrating sealer on a yearly basis. The sealer should be formulated specifically for slate tile to ensure that it penetrates into the pores and protects the surface.
In addition to resealing, regular cleaning with a pH-neutral stone cleaner is important for slate. This will prevent the buildup of dirt and grime, which can erode the sealer. It is important to avoid abrasive cleaners and other harsh chemicals, which may damage or dull the surface of the slate. When sweeping or washing your slate, use a soft-bristle brush or mop and rinse thoroughly to remove any residue.
Synthetic Composite
While composite materials are often used for decking and porches, some homeowners aren’t aware that they can also be used to make roofs. This is especially true for composite slate shingles, which mimic the look of natural slate without the weight and maintenance concerns. These shingles are typically made of recycled cedar wood shavings and other materials such as used tires and post-industrial plastics to create a durable roofing option that’s easy to install, maintain, and withstand the elements.
The beauty of these shingles is that they are designed to look like slate and shakes, but are not prone to cracking, fading, or deterioration. They’re also fire resistant, mold and insect-proof, and can withstand extreme weather conditions. In addition, they’re more affordable than real slate and are easier to install, as they don’t require additional structural reinforcement.
These shingles also come in a variety of colors and shapes to suit any home design, and are usually more affordable than traditional roofing options. As such, they’re ideal for homeowners looking to add a touch of luxury to their property. Additionally, these shingles are very energy-efficient and help regulate indoor temperature, cutting down on cooling costs.
Although composite shingles are relatively low-maintenance, it’s still important to perform routine inspections and cleaning to prevent damage or rot. Some of the most common maintenance tasks include sweeping up debris, removing fallen leaves or branches, and keeping the gutters clean. Performing these tasks will prevent debris buildup, which can affect the integrity of the roof, and help your roofing last longer.
While many homeowner may consider traditional roofing options such as clay, concrete, or slate to be the best choice for their homes, these materials can be high-maintenance and expensive. However, if you want the aesthetic of premium roofing but need a more low-maintenance option, synthetic composite can be an excellent choice for your home.