You’re starting to notice some issues with your roof—a few missing shingles, a small leak whenever it rains, and some moss growing in the shade. While it’s served you well over the years, it might be time to look into replacing your roof. With so many roofing materials to choose from, how do you decide what will work best for your home and budget? Here’s an overview of top roofing options to consider when choosing a new roof.
Asphalt Shingles Offer Affordability and Easy Maintenance
Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular roofing materials because they are affordable and low maintenance. They’re made from a fiberglass mat, coated in asphalt, and finished with mineral granules on top for UV protection and design options. The material is budget-friendly, while modern manufacturing methods provide excellent durability with warranties from 20 to 50 years. Asphalt shingles also provide easy, low-cost maintenance. Replacing a few damaged shingles is simple enough to do, and occasional moss removal with household cleaners keeps the roof looking fresh between professional cleanings every few years. For the price, asphalt shingles bring excellent value and functionality.
Concrete and Clay Tiles Can Mimic High-End Roofs
If you love the look of luxury roofing like slate or wood shakes, concrete or clay tile roofs provide visual appeal without the staggering price tag or high maintenance. These extremely durable synthetic composite roofing tiles can mimic premium materials at a fraction of the cost. They also weigh less than natural stone or wood, reducing the load on your roof structure. Tiles made from concrete or clay provide exceptional water, fire, and insect resistance as well. Coatings reduce moss and algae growth, so a quick pressure wash is all they need periodically outside scheduled professional cleanings. If durability and style are high priorities alongside affordability, concrete or clay tiles bring the best combination.
Standing Seam Metal Roofs Offer Extreme Longevity
For a roof that outlives generations, standing seam metal is unmatched. The roofing panels have raised vertical seams, locking together for wind and water resistance. Professional installation is vital for weather-tightness. But once on, these roofs withstand extreme weather year after year. From sleek modern metal designs to synthetic materials mimicking wood shakes or Spanish tile, aesthetic options abound, too. Just make sure to hire well-reviewed installers using premium materials to ensure proper installation. Properly installed standing seam metal roofs can last up to 50 years with regular maintenance and proper care.
Wood Shake and Shingle Roofs Provide Rustic Charm
There’s no denying the rustic beauty of wood shake or shingle roofs. Whether sawn or split by hand, the organic look brings lovely depth and shadow lines to any home. Cedar and redwood naturally resist rot and insects, though fire protection treatments are essential today. Expect a wood shake or shingle roof to last 30 to 40 years when properly maintained.
Every two years, treated roofs need coatings refreshed to ensure fire and pest resistance. Every four years, an inspection helps spot any damaged shingles to replace. Keeping roofs and gutters clear of debris reduces the chances of ignition in fire-prone areas. If you love the look of wood and embrace regular upkeep, few roofs impart the same charm.
Rubber Roofs Handle Flat or Low-Slope Areas
Homes with flat roof segments or gently sloping sections often turn to rubber roofing solutions. With bitumen or ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) materials, rubber roofs handle the weather, sun exposure, and ponding water well. Lacking shingles, panels, or tiles means water won’t penetrate seams on low or zero-slope areas. The rubber barrier takes the abuse, so the roof stays watertight. Maintenance is also easy with rubber roofs—no sealing joints or replacing broken shingles here. Instead, every 5 to 10 years, professional coatings renew weathering outer layers. In between, some power washing and routine inspections take care of typical needs. For flat or low-pitch roof areas, rubber makes the grade where other roofing fails.
Solar Shingles and Tiles Generate Power
Do you love the idea of solar power energy savings but are not wild about visible rooftop solar panels? Solar roofing shingles and tiles bridge the gap, capturing sun power while retaining aesthetic appeal. Essentially integrating photovoltaic cells into roofing materials, solar shingles/tiles have come a long way in development and performance. They don’t generate quite as much power as traditional solar panels yet. But solar roofing advances let homeowners cut energy costs while enjoying a great-looking roof, too. And with solar tax incentives, rebates, and net metering benefits, financial return keeps improving. For eco-friendly renewable power that also enhances home beauty, solar roofing brings the best of both worlds.
Living Roofs Allow You to Grow Plants on Roofs
If the idea of transforming your barren roof into a lush garden appeals to you, check out living roofs. Particularly popular in urban areas with limited ground space, living roofs provide ecological and aesthetic benefits. From rooftop patios with container plants to fully integrated gardens covering entire roof spaces, multiple living roof options exist today.
By ensuring proper waterproofing, drainage, lightweight growing mediums, and erosion barriers, buildings can effectively support plant life on their rooftops. If you have the resources and enthusiasm for rooftop gardening, living roofs provide a way for your space and creativity to flourish vertically.
Research Tax Credits and Incentives for Extra Savings
With certain eco-friendly roofing solutions like metal, solar, and living roofs, check state and federal incentives providing extra savings. Solar tax credits, stormwater fee reductions, green roof grants, and more financial benefits encourage homeowners to install qualifying roofs. Even non-green incentives like insurance discounts may apply for impact-resistant tile or metal roofs in hurricane zones.
Contact local building departments to learn about the requirements for special zoning allowances or rebates as well. Taking advantage of financial incentives makes efficient, environmentally responsible roof choices more appealing.
Learn More About Your Roof Options in Oconomowoc, WI
Replacing your roof is a major investment expected to last decades. By understanding the roofing options best suited to your home style, climate, budget, and priorities, you can make the most informed decision. If you live in the Oconomowoc, WI, area and need help deciding on the right roof replacement for your home, contact our team at Windlicker Exteriors by calling 414-531-1729. Our team brings extensive experience with all major roofing types to ensure you get both the functionality and aesthetic appeal you want from a quality roof.
