Roofing Materials & Installation Guide
A new roof is a major investment. Understanding the basics of materials, pitch, and the installation process will help you make informed decisions for your home.
Common Roofing Materials
Asphalt Shingles
The most popular roofing material in North America. They are affordable, come in many styles and colors, and are relatively easy to install. Lifespan is typically 20-30 years.
Metal Roofing
Known for its durability, longevity (50+ years), and energy efficiency. Available in panels or shingles. Higher initial cost but low maintenance.
Clay or Concrete Tiles
Extremely durable and fire-resistant, offering a classic look for specific architectural styles (like Spanish or Mediterranean). They are heavy and require reinforced roof framing.
Slate
A premium, natural material with a lifespan of over 100 years. It's beautiful, but also very heavy, expensive, and requires specialized installation.
Understanding Roof Pitch
Roof pitch (or slope) is the steepness of your roof. It's expressed as a ratio of vertical rise to horizontal run, like 6/12.
A 6/12 pitch means the roof rises 6 inches for every 12 inches it runs horizontally. Pitch is crucial because:
- It determines which roofing materials are suitable (some materials can't be used on low-slope roofs).
- It significantly affects the total surface area of your roof. A steeper pitch means more surface area and requires more materials.
- It impacts water and snow shedding.