Mind In The Gutter

Introduction

Nobody would want their homes to look old and traditionally styled, but they also wouldn’t wish to have poor build quality in the extreme weather conditions of Columbus. Therefore, looking for a roofing material that has both aesthetics and rigidness would be the perfect choice for weather conditions like Columbus. From long hours of sun exposure in summer to snowy nights in winter, the roofing material should be versatile enough to withstand this wide range of weather extremities. 

Traditional roofing materials such as clay or slate tiles might look aesthetic, but their tendency to bear the heavy weight of snow or excessive need for maintenance has made them fall off the list. That’s where modern materials with a combination of style and technology, such as asphalt shingles, composite Spanish tiles, and more, come into place. Want to transform your Columbus home? Here are the top roofing materials that stand the test of time and style. Let’s explore! 

What type of Materials Stand the Test of Time and Style?

Before we move onto the specific features and properties of the roofing materials, it’s time to understand some of the critical factors that made them stand the test of time and style. Keep in mind that no roofing material has an unlimited life span, yet some considerations decide on longevity. Let’s find out! 

• Weather Compatibility— The first and foremost factor is the weather compatibility of the roofing material. Columbus has a weather with a wide range of extremities, such as the summer being long and extremely hot while the winter season is full of stormy and snowy days. The roofing material should be versatile enough to withstand such weather conditions to last longer. 
• Less Maintenance— Less maintenance needs for a roofing material is a symbol that it can last longer than usual. For example, metal roofing requires less or no maintenance and is resistant to fire, damage, rot, insect attack and more. 
• Durability & Strength— Durability and strength are directly proportional to longevity. For example, a slate roof can last up to 200 years, and an asphalt roof can last for only 20-30 years. 

 

Different types of Roofing Materials for Columbus Home 

From slate roofing having an old historical feel to wooden shingles having a style statement, there are various options for the roofing material to choose for your Columbus home. Here’s a list of roofing materials, each having its own elegance, strength, and longevity: 

• Metal Roofing— Long Lasting Option

Weather extremes in Columbus are unbearable for most ordinary roofing materials, which have little or no strength. That’s where the metal roof comes in place. The metal roofing tends to last 50-70 years easily while bearing the snow, rain, and heavy wind. Metal roofing has another brilliant characteristic that suits the weather conditions of Columbus: it has a wind rating of 150-160 MPH. Moreover, metal roofs can be the perfect style statement for the modern Columbus home if installed properly. 

Key Characteristics: The distinguishing feature of metal roofing is that it requires little or no maintenance at all. The metal is a material that is resistant to rotting, algae growth, insect damage, and more. 

Downside: The downside of having metal roofing is that it might not be versatile enough to withstand every weather condition. For example, metal sheets can get extra hot in summer and too cold in winter, resulting in poor energy efficiency. 

House Style Statement: Metal roofing will work best on bungalows or cottage-style homes. 

• Asphalt Shingles – Cost-Effective and Most Used Option 

Do you know what the most used roofing material in Columbus is? Yes, you guessed it right! Asphalt shingles, due to their utmost strength, style statement, and durability, are the most used roofing material in the United States of America. 

One of the brilliant features of Asphalt Shingles is that they can be combined with multiple materials, such as fiberglass and cellulose, to craft a durable and long-lasting roof. Available in multiple colors and designs, Asphalt shingles can fit with any culture and architectural need.

Key Characteristics: The recognized feature of Asphalt Shingles is that it is the best combination of durability, cost-effectiveness, and simplicity. 

Downside: The downside of roofing material is that it can grow mold or algae in humid weather conditions. Moreover, its lifespan ranges between 20 and 25 years, and it can have cracks due to brittleness over time. 

House Style Statement: Asphalt Shingles will look good on any type of house, especially the suburban style. 

• Wood Shakes or Shingles

Wood is a great insulator, and this feature speaks for its extraordinary insulating properties as a roofing material. Moreover, keeping in view the style statement, wood shakes or shingles can be the best option. The wood roofing material not only makes the home look rustic and charming but also gives the traditional neat vibes at the same time. 

However, Columbus weather might not be suitable for wood shingles as it can absorb water, grow mold, and develop cracks over time. Thus, the average lifespan of wood roofing can be from 25 to 30 years, but it mainly depends on the weather type. 

Key Characteristics: Wood can be colored in any way and crafted in any style statement, giving a rustic and natural look. 

Downside: Wood is not resistant to mold, insect damage, and water damage. 

House Style Statement: It can give charming vibes to any bungalow, craftsman, or cottage-style home. 

• Green Roofing— Eco-friendly Option

The green roofing concept is becoming common these days due to its being eco-friendly and enduring nature. It is mainly a water-proof membrane with a layer of vegetation on the top. These tend to have a longer lifespan and can act as an energy-efficient option due to their insulating properties. 

Key Characteristics: One of the distinguishing features is eco-friendliness, which absorbs rainwater and improves air quality at the same time.  

Downside: Not only is it an expensive option, but it is heavier in weight than traditional roofs.  

House Style Statement: It can enhance the aesthetics of a cottage or even a modern-styled home.