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Types of roofing materials
Choosing the right roofing material is often decisive when it comes to the durability and functionality of the building. The type of roof covering affects the aesthetics, thermal and acoustic insulation, as well as protection against weather conditions. See what distinguishes each type of roofing, as well as what their biggest advantages and disadvantages are.
Table of contents
Types of roofing – the most important features
Learn about the most popular types of roofing and their characteristic features, which will be a helpful guide for you when choosing the best solution for your home.
Ceramic tiles
Ceramic tiles are a traditional and popular roofing material. They are made from natural clay, which, after forming and drying, is fired in an oven at a temperature exceeding 1000 degrees Celsius.
What are their advantages and disadvantages?
- Ceramic roof tiles can last up to 100 years, making them one of the most durable roofing materials available on the market;
- A wide range of colors and shapes allows it to match a variety of architectural styles;
- Ceramic tiles perfectly withstand both high and low temperatures, and are also resistant to UV radiation, which prevents the color from fading.
Ceramic tiles are heavier than other roofing materials, which requires a solid roof truss structure. The roof must be properly designed to withstand the weight of the tiles. They are more expensive (when it comes to purchase and installation) compared to some alternatives, which can be a barrier for those on a budget.
Cement roof tiles
Cement roof tiles, also known as concrete roof tiles, are made from a mixture of cement, sand and water, which are formed and hardened through a chemical process.
What do we include among their advantages and disadvantages?
- The durability of this type of roofing is from 40 to 70 years;
- Cement roof tiles are typically less expensive than ceramic roof tiles, making them a more accessible solution for many homeowners;
- Cement tiles are non-flammable, which increases the safety of the building in the event of a fire.
Like ceramic tiles, cement tiles are heavy – they require a strong roof structure. Cement tiles can be less visually appealing compared to ceramic tiles, although they are available in a variety of colors and shapes, allowing for some aesthetic customization.
Metal roofing tiles
Metal roofing tiles are lightweight roofing materials made of steel sheet, galvanized and coated with protective layers such as polyester or polyurethane. They are a popular choice due to their ease of installation and versatility of use.
What can we consider the advantages and disadvantages of metal roof tiles?
- Metal roof tiles are much lighter than traditional ceramic or cement tiles, which makes it easier to transport and install. This allows them to be used on less robust roof structures;
- The costs of purchase and installation of metal roofing tiles are relatively low, making them an attractive choice for those looking for economical solutions;
- With proper maintenance , metal roofing tiles can last up to 50 years.
Metal roofing tiles generate quite a lot of noise during rain or hail, which can be a nuisance in residential buildings. This problem can be minimized by using appropriate sound insulation. Although modern protective coatings reduce the risk of corrosion, metal roofing tiles still require regular maintenance to maintain their protective properties.
Roofing felt
Roofing felt is a rolled material, mainly used for houses with a flat roof or with a slight slope. It consists of layers of bitumen, reinforced with glass or polyester fiber. The roofing membrane can be modified with additives such as SBS (styrene-butadiene-styrene) or APP (atactic polypropylene), which improves its technical properties.
What are the most important advantages and disadvantages of roofing felt?
- Roofing felt is perfect for roofing with complex shapes;
- It provides effective protection against water, making it an ideal solution for flat roofs that are particularly vulnerable to flooding;
- Roofing membrane is relatively cheap compared to other roofing materials.
The durability of roofing felt is usually 10 to 20 years, which is shorter than in the case of ceramic or cement tiles. It requires regular maintenance and renovation. The aesthetics can be less attractive compared to other materials, especially on roofs that are visible from the street.
Trapezoidal sheet metal
Trapezoidal sheet metal is an economical roofing material that is characterized by trapezoid-shaped profiles. It is manufactured from steel sheet, galvanized and coated with protective layers. Interestingly, trapezoidal sheet metal is popular in both industrial and residential buildings, due to its strength and versatility.
What are the disadvantages and what are the disadvantages of trapezoidal sheet?
- Trapezoidal sheet metal is resistant to mechanical damage and weather conditions such as wind, rain or snow. As a result, it provides roof protection for many years;
- Trapezoidal sheet metal is very attractively priced;
- It is lightweight, which makes it easy to transport and install. It can be used on various types of roof structures, both new and renovated.
Trapezoidal sheet metal can be less visually appealing compared to other roofing materials, such as ceramic or cement tiles. It is more raw and technical in appearance. Like metal roofing tiles, trapezoidal sheet metal can unfortunately generate a lot of noise during rainfall or hail.
Type of roofing – choose the best one for your home
Choosing the right type of roofing material is usually dictated by many different factors, such as:
- budget
- architectural style,
- climatic conditions,
- expected durability.
Analyzing the pros and cons of each of these materials will allow you to make an informed choice that will suit the specific needs and requirements of your building.
Are you looking for practical information related to residential construction? See also our post about types of roofs.