In part one of this two-part blog series, we looked at some of the most common roofing materials used for homes, plus the general lifespan ranges they come with. Many roofing materials will last for decades if they’re properly maintained, and knowing the ins and outs here for your specific material often pays dividends.
At Whitaker Roofing, we’re here to offer a wide range of roof replacement and roof repair services for any roofing material you’re considering. Today’s part two of our series will look at some other common residential roofing materials, plus their lifespan ranges and what you can do to maximize them.
Wood Shake Roofs
For those who are interested in a wood-based product for their roof, wood shake roofs tend to be preferable to wood shingles – they’re more durable in both UV sunlight and extreme elements. Wood shake roofs refer to a type of wooden roof that is built using thicker slabs of wood with more rugged grains, making them highly resistant to the elements.
Wood shake roofs can last anywhere from 25-40 years, depending on their care and also the specific kind of wood chosen. Cedar wood is a popular choice due to its natural waterproofing abilities, while pressure-treated shakes are also an option. There are various treatments and sealants available that can add longevity to your wood shake roof when used properly.
Synthetic Slate Roofing
We went over slate roofing in part one of our series, and synthetic slate roofing offers many of the same benefits – at a much more affordable price. Synthetic slate roofing is made from natural mineral granules that are mixed with a variety of synthetic and plastic materials, giving it a similar look to genuine slate but without the same cost.
Synthetic slate roofs can last up to 100 years, and this is due to several enhancements. They have UV inhibitors that protect them from sunlight, plus they’re fireproof and waterproof. These features mean that not only do they have a long lifespan, but they perform efficiently even in extreme weather conditions.
Architectural Shingles
Finally, speaking of products that are similar to those we already went over, architectural shingles are similar to asphalt shingles – but with some modern additions like heavier weight and various strengthening features that add more durability.
Architectural shingles are typically rated for lifespans of up to 30 years, though exact numbers will depend on their specific manufacturing process. Many of these come with fiberglass reinforcements or specialized designs, which help them last longer when faced with extreme weather elements like heavy winds.
As you can see, there are a variety of roofing materials out there – each with their own unique features and lifespan potential. It’s always important to choose the right one for your individual needs, and our team at Whitaker Roofing is here to offer assistance with that selection process. Contact us today for more information!