A roof is one of the most critical parts of any home’s structure and integrity. It is important to choose a roof material that will provide a home with long-lasting protection. There is really no “best” roofing material. Different materials are suited for different climates and conditions. The conditions of dry and hot climates make choosing roofing materials made of clay tile, slate, and white metal some of the best possible roofing material options.
Slate Tile
Slate roofs are some of the most prestigious, durable and expensive roofs on the market. Although slate costs significantly more upfront, it requires very little maintenance and will last decades longer than most other roofing materials. Like clay, slate is naturally heat resistant and can be given lighter earth tones to enhance its heat reflective properties. Many people will buy slate over clay tile for aesthetic or durability reasons.
The two biggest downsides to slate are cost and weight. Slate is among the heaviest of all residential roofing materials. It often requires a specially designed roof to support the weight and can’t typically be placed on a roof not built with slate or a similarly heavy material in mind. Slate is also one of the most expensive of all materials per square foot.
Clay Tile
Clay tile is a standard roofing material common to hot dry climates in states like California, Arizona and New Mexico. The light and tan colors of clay tile often fit well with the architectural designs of buildings in these climates. Clay is naturally heat resistant, and will not break down under long exposure to direct sunlight the way common asphalt roofing will. The shape of clay tiles is also an important advantaged. Most clay tiles have a cup or S shape. This allows air to circulate beneath the tile, providing natural ventilation.
In terms of affordability, clay tiles fall somewhere between expensive options like metal and slate and cheaper options like asphalt. They will likely last longer than asphalt in hot and sunny climates, but they will not last as long as metal or slate. They are also much less durable than either material and will not hold up well against severe weather or foot traffic. It can be very difficult to install rooftop solar over a clay tile roof.
White Metal
Metal roofs, like the products offered at Roland’s Roofing, can work very well in hot climates if they are designed properly. White metal roofs offer excellent thermal reflection, and it is generally easier to install thermal barriers with metal roofs compared to other roofing materials. Metal roofs are among the most durable of all roofing types and can stand up against inclement weather and foot traffic better than almost all other types except concrete. Metal roofs are also very long-lasting and require little maintenance. Their cost is less than slate roofs for similar durability, but they do not have the aesthetic advantage.
The biggest downside to the maintenance of metal roofs is that if the roof is damaged, it can be more difficult to repair. With clay or slate tile roofs, the tiles can be replaced individually if they are cracked or broken. If a portion of metal roof is damaged, then a large section of the metal sheeting will likely have to be replaced.
It is important to choose wisely and consider carefully when selecting a roofing material. The home’s design, the particular climate and budget are all important factors. A material that works well under constant direct sunlight and has high thermal reflection are the most important factors for hot and dry climates.
This guest post is written by Emma Sturgis a freelance writer based in Boston, MA. When not writing, she enjoys rock climbing and reading. Say hi on Twitter @EmmaSturgis2
