Most Durable Roofing Material
Colorado has three hundred days of sunshine. While sunshine is very appealing, the blazing heat and UV radiation can wear down even the most durable roofing materials. To combat Colorado’s challenging weather conditions, it is important to choose the most durable roofing material and to ensure it is all expertly installed by a roofing professional knowledgeable about Colorado’s weather challenges. Colorado’s higher altitude, air pressure, solar radiation, density, oxygen, and temperature affect the longevity of your roof.
Most Durable Roofing Material Choices
The following are some of the most durable roofing materials that are recommended by our Colorado roofing specialists:
Asphalt Shingles
The lifespan of asphalt shingles is between fifteen and thirty years. Because of this and their reasonable price, they are a popular roofing choice. To ensure durability, choose shingles with a good hail rating.
Asphalt shingles are also recyclable so they don’t fill landfill sites.
Wooden Shakes
Wooden shingles or shakes last between thirty and fifty years. Wooden shakes are constructed of fire-resistant cedar or redwood. While not as durable as asphalt, they last longer. Wooden shingles are natural insulators so they get extra marks for energy efficiency.
Metal Roofing Materials
Like wooden shakes, metal roofing materials last thirty to fifty years. Most are made of steel, copper, zinc alloy, or aluminum. While a little more expensive than wooden shakes, metal roofs are significantly more durable.
Because they are impact-resistant, metal roofs are a good choice for Colorado’s climate. Metal roofs are also more maintenance-free than many other roofing materials. Metal roofs also act as natural insulators, keeping homes cooler in hot weather and warmer in Colorado winters.
Metal roofing materials are totally recyclable and are made from recycled materials.
Plastic Polymers
Plastic polymer roofing materials have a lifespan of over fifty years. While they look like slate or wooden shingles, polymer roofs are incredibly durable. They are also maintenance-free.
Plastic polymer roofing materials withstand Colorado weather challenges.
Highly energy efficient, plastic polymer manufacturers use recycled materials. Ideal for Colorado’s high rates of sunshine, plastic roofs reflect energy, keeping homes cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
Slate
A slate roof can last between seventy-five and a hundred and fifty years. Slate is the most costly and the most durable of the durable roofing materials. Slate is fireproof. The highest winds and most severe Colorado snowstorms don’t phase slate roofs. However, slate tiles can crack under the weight of snow or ice. It is vital that it be applied by a roofing specialist.
Because slate needs to be replaced so infrequently, it is much better for the environment than many other roofing materials. Slate is also naturally occurring, so no toxins are involved in the manufacturing process. The densest of all roofing materials, slate is also the best insulator.
Solar Glass
If it is properly installed and cared for, solar glass roofing will last a lifetime.
Solar glass roofing comes with a lifetime tile guarantee. It can withstand the challenges of Colorado weather.
Solar glass roofing tiles are highly energy efficient. While relatively expensive to purchase and install, solar glass often comes with a tax credit. Not only is solar glass energy efficient. It generates its own energy. Thus, it is highly sustainable.
Longevity Trends
There are certain roofing material trends that are taking commercial and residential properties by storm right now.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofs are in demand once again. They are popular because of their visual appeal, versatility, function, and durability. Metal roofs enhance the curb appeal of homes and businesses. Constructed of steel, aluminum, alloy, or copper steel roofs offer a wide variety of textures and shapes. They prevent leaks and repel snow and rain. Their longevity offsets the upfront costs. Metal roofing is some of the most durable roofing material on the market.
Asphalt Shingles
Roofing trends come and go but asphalt shingles remain another most durable roofing material. They are both flexible and affordable. They adapt to almost any weather. Thanks to technology, asphalt shingles are now available in a stunning array of styles and colors.
Roof Aesthetics
Roofs no longer blend into the background. They make a statement about the home and the owner. Homeowners are changing up their roof colors to showcase their homes. Owners choose eye-catching hues like black, gray, silver, or bronze.
Roof Coatings
Silicone roof coating—once a part of commercial buildings—has become popular in residential roofing. This material alters the roof’s appearance in just two coats. Silicone roof coatings also provide longevity as the protective coating offers leak-proofing.
Solar Energy
Solar power lightens the carbon footprint as the roofing materials are energy efficient. Moreover, the newest solar panels are smaller and less expensive. Called photovoltaic shingles these solar panels now mimic the look of traditional roofing materials.
Cool Roofing Materials
Cool roofs are a popular response to environmental issues like global warming. Constructed from energy-reflecting and energy-absorbing materials, cool roofing materials reflect and/or absorb heat in response to weather challenges.
Synthetic Materials
Eco-friendly, synthetic roofing materials are increasing. Created of recyclable materials like rubber and plastic, they can offer options in shapes, sizes, and colors. Synthetic roofing materials are very durable even in Colorado weather conditions. Mimicking slate or wooden shakes, synthetic materials are aesthetically pleasing, durable, relatively inexpensive, lightweight, and easy to install and maintain.
Green Roofing Options
Green roofs offer a way to incorporate beauty and function. Atop businesses and homes, owners have incorporated greenery by adding a rooftop garden, patio, or workspace. These rooftop spaces are very durable and protect your home from weather challenges while at the same time offering natural shade and insulation.
How to Make Your Roof Last Longer
Your roof is an investment in your family’s comfort. Proper maintenance will ensure that it also retains the curb appeal and structural integrity of your asset. Here are some ways to extend the longevity of your roof.
1. Avoid Power Washing
This may seem like a great way to remove grime and debris but it also removes or loosens roofing materials. Use a broom, roof rake, or leaf blower to remove dirt and moss. Better yet, have a professional clean your roof at least twice a year.
2. Check Ventilation
Poor ventilation can cause condensation and rotting wood. Mold and mildew can develop. This is dangerous to the health of your home and its occupants.
3. Keep Gutters Clean
Check gutters at least once a season. Remove debris. This will prevent water buildup and roof leaks.
4. Check Insulation
Insulation helps prevent ice dams and roof leaks. Consider installing a self-adhesive layer to protect against ice and water on your roof.
5. Protect Against Severe Weather
If you live in an area that experiences hurricanes, severe thunderstorms, buzzards, or tornadoes, fortify your roof with seal decking and ring-shank nails. Lock roof edges with metal flashing.
6. Regular Roof Inspections
Have a knowledgeable roofing professional check your roof for damage or debris at least twice a year.
Why Choose B&M Roofing?
Just as it is crucial to select durable roof materials, it is also important to choose a roofing specialist that understands Colorado weather challenges.
B&M Roofing has been a Colorado-owned company since 1947. We provide reliable, meticulous service to thousands of Colorado homes.
Licensed and insured B & M roofing specialists have a proven commitment to excellence.
