While different roofing materials have their strengths and weaknesses, you should not rely solely on these traits when deciding which type to install on your home. You should also consider the area where your house is located.

Roofing needs vary in regions with different climates. Before buying a particular roof for your house, you should know the qualities of different roofing materials to be able to choose the ones most suitable for your region’s climate.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing is extremely durable and could last up to 50 years or more. This roof is ideal for practically all types of climate especially in wet or rainy areas. Modern metals are waterproof and resistant to corrosion. They are also treated to resist against algae infestation.

Clay Tiles

These are more expensive than shingles or metals but they are popular choices for use in hot areas and desert climates. They are good in blocking heat and keeping the interiors cool and at the same time able to resist wind. Unlike other roof materials, we do not recommend this one for DIY practitioners because installing tiles requires special tools and training. In fact, in some areas finding a qualified installer may be hard to do.

Wood Shingles and Shakes

Houses in places where temperatures are soaring are not ideal for wood shingles and shakes as they tend to crack or split under high temperatures. Places where rain is common is also not an ideal place for this type of roofing particularly when the materials used are not of high quality because they rot easily.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are durable, inexpensive and attractive, which make them the most commonly-used roofing type in the country. They do well against heavy rain, snow, moderate winds and even minor hail. However, they are not really suited for extremely hot and dry climates since these temperatures tend to shorten the lifespan of the roof by about 20 to 40 percent. In warm climates you can choose light-colored shingles that are better in reflecting heat.

Slate

This roofing material is very durable and should be good to use in almost any kind of climate. Slate works well in cooling down your house during hot weather. It also performs well against heavy rains. In cold areas, snow could fall for months. While slate roofing is heavy, this should not prevent you from using it. Just do not forget to reinforce your roof to withstand the combined weight of the roofing material and accumulation of heavy snow.