If you have just purchased a new home in Arizona, you may be wondering what type of roof you should choose for your family. While it may be tempting to simply choose whatever the builder is offering for the lowest add-on fee, you can save yourself a lot of money and grief in the long run by looking at other options.
Asphalt Shingles
In the U.S., asphalt shingles are used on 70 percent of homes. They are hugely popular because of their low cost and longevity. Essentially, they can get the job done and last for 20 – 40 years as long as they’re properly maintained. However, asphalt shingles can be prone to cracking and breaking when faced with extreme heat. By keeping up with the appropriate maintenance, an asphalt roof can be a winning contender.
Clay and Concrete Tiles
In the past 15 years, clay and concrete tiles have become the most popular choice for new homes in Arizona. When examining why more new homes are choosing these roofs, it is easy to see the draw in our hot climate. Clay or concrete tile roofs have a much longer lifespan and can reasonably be expected to last between 20 and 30 years. The tiles themselves will last much longer, but the underlayment will need replacement first. The tiles are strategically spaced so the roof can have optimum ventilation, which means it will cool down faster and last longer. The tiles are also fireproof and will not rot.
Tile roofs require a structural engineer’s report to ensure no additional bracing is needed, if the homeowner is switching from a shingle roof to tile. How one’s home is built can determine how much weight the roof can take. Having an engineer’s report helps ensure that the roof won’t be taking on too much weight.
Cost Considerations
For most homeowners, the cost of roofing is a significant issue. Clay and concrete tiles are often priced higher than asphalt shingles, but cost is not always the only consideration. Unless you plan on living in your new home for the rest of your life, you should consider appraisal value as well. Concrete and clay have the best value in this regard and can increase the appraisal price of your home. When considering that the tiles can last a half a century with proper maintenance, it is clear why many homeowners choose the initial expense of clay or concrete roofs.
Although asphalt shingles have been used for most homes, concrete and clay tiles have made headway in the past decade or so. While the trend of concrete and clay tile roofs in Arizona is likely to stay strong for the foreseeable future, make sure you do your research. Feel comfortable with your roof choice prior to commencing work on the project. If you would like to discuss the pros and cons of both of these popular roofing types, contact one of our roofing professionals. We will help you decide what type will best suit you and your family’s individual needs.
