We recognize that there are other options to asphalt shingle roofs and we will take a look at these as well.
Wood Shake
Wood has been in use for centuries both here in the US and in many other places of the world. Early on, wood was a natural choice as it was abundant, relatively cheap to produce and quite frankly… there were no good alternatives back then. Wood not only has many of the same deterioration problems associated with asphalt shingle, but they are also an increased fire hazard as well. Many times, wood shingles deteriorate from underneath, making it difficult to spot a problem until it is too late and a weather event exposes the problem. Problems can become so sever that the roof itself requires replacement.
Clay and Concrete Tile and Slate
Clay is a beautiful and sometimes architecturally stunning selection. Sadly, they add substantial weight to a roof which can strain the structure of the roof and walls. By their very nature, both clay and concrete will retain water due to their porous nature. Water is the real enemy of clay/concrete tiles as it leads to cracking and breakage. Especially during wet / freeze cycles so common across the country.
Slate is also an attractive consideration but slate can be a brittle stone and the nails that secure them are prone to rust. At times, somtimes weight and gravity are the only thing holding an older slate roof in place.
Other Temporary Roofing Materials
Rubber and composite materials make up the remaining options be tested in the market, but these have no long term track record. These products are difficult to locate, expensive to install and may have unknown concerns long-term. Installing untested materials in a high risk investment.
