In This Blog You Will Find:
A guide to selecting roofing materials for your custom home build or major renovation in Calgary. Popular options include; asphalt, metal, clay and concrete, wood and slate.
Exterior features and materials play an important role in the design of your custom home, especially the roof. The roof is the first defence against the varied Calgary weather, luckily there are many options to choose from for your custom home. Your Calgary custom home builder will be there to guide you through the selection process and help you make an informed decision. Below is a list of roofing options for your custom home.
Using Asphalt Shingles on Your Custom Home
Asphalt shingles are a popular option for roofing materials. They are easy to install and low-cost. These types of shingles can last from 20-50 years (depending on the kind chosen), making them a durable option. There are countless colours and styles to make your vision for your dream custom home. They are also energy-efficient options that help to reduce heat absorption, decreasing roof temperature in the summer. There is the possibility of damage to shingles in hail storms, and excess UV light can cause the shingles to break down. Did you know? Asphalt shingles are fire and wind-resistant.
Metal Roofing for Your Calgary Custom Home
There are many materials that are included in this roofing category including aluminum, steel, copper, or zinc alloy; making for many stylish options for your custom home. Metal roofs have a life expectancy of 40 to 70 years depending on the material and can be installed as sheeting or tile. This roofing option is more durable than asphalt. Given the lifespan and durability, metal roofs can be an expensive option. Metal roofs are environmentally friendly; they consist of at least 25% recycled material and are 100% recyclable. Metal roofs can be a noisier option in heavy rainstorms, but extra layers of solid sheathing or insulation can be installed beneath.
Building Your Custom Home With Clay and Concrete Tile Roofing
Tiled roofs are an excellent option for both style and durability. While these materials can be expensive and heavy, the lifespan of this material can reach 100 years. This type of roofing matches well with Spanish or Mediterranean-style custom homes. These materials are low-maintenance, do not rot, aren’t susceptible to insect damage, and are environmentally friendly. A downside to keep in mind for Canadian winters, clay tiles can crack in extremely cold temperatures.
Wood Shingles and Shakes as an Option for Your Custom Home
This roofing option has been widely used for a long time, as wood shingles and wood shakes are aesthetically pleasing and affordable. This material offers great insulation; keeping warmer indoor temperatures in the cold winter months and naturally cool your custom home in the summer months. The life expectancy of wood roofing materials is 20-30 years and they are a lightweight option. Wood roofing materials are less fire-resistant than other options but can be treated with a fire retardant. This material is also more likely to face maintenance as it is more likely for rotting and insect damage.
Slate Roofing for Your Custom Home Build
Slate looks great on Colonial and Chateau style custom homes, most commonly offered in shades of black, green, grey and red. This type of roofing is very durable, mold and fire-resistant and offers low water absorption as it is a natural stone option. This type of roofing can be expensive and is very heavy, however, slate can last from 50-100 years and is eco-friendly.
When building your custom home, there are many great options for roofing materials. At Sunset Homes, we can help you determine which option works best for your style and budget.
Thinking about building a new custom home or major renovation in Calgary or the surrounding area? Contact Sunset Homes today.
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