There are a number of things to consider when deciding which material to use for your roofing installation. Price and aesthetics are two important considerations when selecting a material for your new roof. Another very important factor to account for is the durability of the roofing material that you’ll be installing. Some roofing materials are going to last much longer than others, though they typically come at a higher price point than the less-durable alternatives. If you want to avoid roof repair and replacement for as long as possible after your initial installation, consider choosing one of these highly durable roofing materials.
Slate and Other Durable Roofing Materials
Slate is the most durable roofing material on the market, but it is also one of the most expensive. However, it is well worth the investment due to its impressive durability, as well as its aesthetic appeal. The initial installation of your slate roof may be the one and only time that you ever have to put money toward your roof.
Slate roofing is known to stand the test of time, lasting 75 years on the low end to 200 years on the high end. This roofing material is fire-resistant and extremely hardy in various weather conditions, though it can crack under a solid amount of force or pressure (such as someone stepping on it). Because of this, slate roofs must be installed carefully by roofing experts. Without exposure to force or pressure, however, your slate roof should endure at your home as long as you live there.
Related: THE PROS AND CONS OF HAVING A SLATE ROOF
Clay/Concrete
Clay and concrete both offer very similar benefits and durability as roofing materials. These beautiful roofing tiles will typically hold up for at least 100 years. Similar to slate, these materials are fire and weather-resistant but can crack under pressure. Avoid this, and your clay or concrete roof will last a lifetime.
Because these types of roofing tiles are more easily made than slate, they are a bit less expensive, but still quite pricey. With concrete being more easily procured than clay, it tends to be the less expensive of the two.
Metal
Metal is another of the more durable roofing options, holding up well against wind, fire, and weather over decades. Though it may only last about half as long as slate, clay, or concrete, metal roofing is also about half the price, making it a much more affordable option for those seeking a long-lasting roofing material.
A metal roof’s life expectancy, which is typically around 50 years, is still considered to be quite good! Compare this to the 15-30 year lifespan of asphalt shingles, the most common roofing material, and you’ll see that metal is by far a better option when it comes to durability. And when the time finally does come to scrap your metal roof, you can usually do so in an eco-friendly way – most metal roofs are fully recyclable.
Related: THE BENEFITS OF METAL ROOFING
Solar Glass
Though we do not install solar glass roofing at Farina – currently Tesla is the only manufacturer who does – we feel it deserves a mention due to its exceptional longevity. Solar glass roofing is extremely expensive upfront, but highly durable. A solar glass roof will likely last you over 100 years – and the best part is, it will power your home with clean, renewable energy throughout those many years.
Considering the money it will save you on your electric bills, the installation of a solar glass roof can be a great long-term investment. In a place like New England, however, where the sunshine is not exactly consistent, this roofing option may not be worth the money. This type of roofing is best suited for a place that is constantly sunny, such as California.
Learn About The Durable Roofing Materials That We Offer
Want a roof that’s built to last? We are happy to go through the options and prices for our most durable roofing materials. Contact us to learn more about the types of roofing we install our pricing and roofing in Boston.