If you live in Texas, you have unique needs when it comes to roofing.
Weather in areas such as San Antonio, Helotes, Bulverde, and New Braunfels can range from hot and sunny to stormy, with plenty of rain and wind. So it makes sense to spend a lot of time researching roof types and materials before you choose one for your upcoming roof replacement.
There are pros and cons to each type of roofing material, so there often isn’t one obvious answer. Here are the three most common roof types that you’ll find in Texas and the pros and cons that may make them more or less suitable for you!
Of course, if you are trying to find the perfect roofing material for your home, it’s best to contact a team of qualified roofers, experts in their field with the experience to back it. We thought we’d get ahead on things a little bit and offer a quick overview in this blog, but for more information, don’t hesitate to reach out.
We have years of experience in roof installation and we can help you find the right solution.
1. Asphalt Shingle Roofs
Asphalt shingles are by far the most common type of roofing material both in Texas and across the country. There are several different reasons for this. The first is that asphalt shingles are the most affordable roofing material. They also have a good track record for durability in all types of weather and they can last for a decent amount of time, especially if they are well-maintained.
There isn’t just one type of asphalt shingle to choose from. The lifespan and quality of your asphalt roof will depend on the shingles that you choose. These are the three main categories of asphalt shingles:
3-Tab Shingles
This type of shingle can also be known as a strip shingle. They are named this because they come in strips of three single-layer shingles. You can recognize this type of shingle because they lay flat and do not overlap. They are the cheapest and the most basic type of asphalt shingle. However, they also provide the least amount of protection from the elements and won’t last as long.
Dimensional Shingles
Dimensional shingles, also referred to as architectural shingles, offer more protection because they are comprised of a double layer of shingles that overlap in a unique and random pattern. Many homeowners prefer this type of asphalt shingle because it lasts a little longer, the dimensional effect is often more attractive, and it can be installed on virtually every roof.
Luxury Shingles
Luxury shingles are the heaviest, most durable, and longest-lasting type of asphalt roof. They perform better in many different situations from rain and hail to heavy wind storms. Luxury shingles can also add a lot to the appearance of your home since they come in a variety of colors, shapes, and textures.
Pros of Asphalt Roofing
Asphalt shingles can be a good choice for many homes because they are less expensive than other types of roofs. When they are properly installed, they can last for 25 years or more. They are attractive, fire-resistant, and energy efficient. They are also fast and easy to install.
Cons of Asphalt Roofing
Asphalt roofs don’t last as long as other types of roofs. They can also crack when exposed to changing temperatures or hail. They are also more susceptible to heavy winds than clay or metal roofs.
2. Metal Roofs
While asphalt shingles are still the most common type of roofing, metal roofs come in at a close second. Popularity is growing for this type of roofing because this material is still relatively affordable while also being able to last 50 years or more. Insurance companies also tend to like them because of their safety and longevity while homeowners appreciate that they come in lots of different colors and styles.
There are many different types of metal roofs as well as different materials to choose from. Metal roofs can be made from aluminum, steel, zinc, tin, or copper and the price range will depend on the type you choose. Copper is the most expensive, but it is rust-resistant. Many people like the way it looks even with a patina. Some of the most common types of metal roofing include:
- Metal shingles: made to look like shingles, but crafted from metal.
- Corrugated metal roofs: large sheets of metal with waves and ridges.
- Standing seam roofs: Smooth, weather-tight, and high-quality metal panels with no exposed fasteners and a long lifespan.
Pros of Metal Roofs
Metal roofs are a long-lasting option and are also lightweight, easy to install, and won’t catch fire if exposed to a forest fire or lightning. Most metal roofs are also environmentally friendly because they can be made from recycled materials and recycled again at the end of their lifespan. They can add to the energy efficiency of your home and can stand up to heavy winds and even hail.
Cons of Metal Roofs
Depending on the type of metal roof you choose, some metal roofs can rust. They can also be noisy during a storm and many find their appearance less attractive than other materials. Metal roofs are also around twice as expensive as asphalt shingles, putting them outside of the budget for some people.
3. Clay Roofs
Clay roofs are a common material in Texas towns such as Bulverde and Helotes because of their beautiful appearance. You can find this type of material on sturdy buildings with Spanish architecture, and their red color is striking and beautiful.
When clay tiles are made, a mixture of clay and water is shaped and then baked in a kiln to make it strong and weather-resistant. Many clay tiles have coatings that can change the color of the tiles and help them stand up even better to different types of weather. The tiles are then overlapped on the roof to keep out the water.
Pros of Clay Roofs
Clay is one of the longest-lasting roofing materials on the market. They can last up to 100 years when not exposed to major damage. They can stand up against strong winds, they have a great impact rating that makes them a good choice in areas with a lot of hail, and they have a Class A fire rating. They also continue to look beautiful for many years regardless of the sun and rain. If a tile gets broken, it can easily be replaced with a quick roof repair. This type of roof is very low-maintenance.
Cons of Clay Roofs
One of the biggest drawbacks of a clay roof is the weight of the material. Not all homes can handle the added weight without major restructuring of the roof supports. It is also the most expensive of all of the three materials that we’ve mentioned. It can also take longer to install because the process is more laborious.
Best Roof Types to Consider: Roof Installations and Replacements in San Antonio, TX
Whether you choose asphalt roofing for its affordability or clay roofing for its long lifespan, it’s important to hire a reliable San Antonio roofing company to come and do the installation. Even the more affordable materials can last a long time without needing constant roof repairs if they are properly installed.
At Bondoc Roofing, we focus on quality installations in Helotes, Bulverde, New Braunfels, San Antonio, and other nearby areas. We want you to have a roof that gives you peace of mind for many years to come. We guarantee our services with warranties, and we offer transparent pricing for all of our services.
If you are looking for a roofing company near you that provides installations for metal, asphalt shingle, or clay roofs, contact Bondoc Roofing today or fill out our online form.
