What are the Material Options for New Roofs?

If you search for roofing materials or visit the website of top roofing companies in Bray, there’s a staggering array of options. You hear talk about slating and tiling, asphalt and hot melt for flat roofs as well as new systems like DuoPly. Then there are the finishing touches with zinc, copper, lead flashing and ornate leadwork.

The good news is you don’t need to be an expert in roofing materials to get new roofs on your home. That’s what we are here for. But let’s take a look at some of the basic options to help you understand your choices.

Slate tiles

Slate is one of the older roofing materials and is common for both roof repairs and new roofs because what made it popular then still applies now. There are different slates from around the country and each has their own look and colour. You can even get reconstituted slate where slate is bound together with resin to create tough new slate tiles.

Slate has a lifespan of 100+ years and can endure extreme temperatures. It is both snow and fire resistant and fully waterproof. You will need to ensure you work with a roofer that can fit slate as it is a little different to other materials.

Clay tiles

Clay tiles also come in a range of colours and finishes and are ideal for period builds or renovations because you can have detail in the finishing that ties in with the look of the house. Modern clay tiles are machine made but you can also invest in handmade options.

Clay tiles have a long lifespan – there are some on the Guildhall in Lincoln that dates back to the 14th century! But the weather can take a toll on them with the freeze and thaw cycle, so they do need to be checked that they meet Ireland’s frost requirements when you buy them.

Concrete tiles

Concrete is a relative newcomer to the market and is already proving popular. It can be made into interlocking, strong and customised roofing materials and are ideal if you want to add things like Velux roof windows in. They also work on shallow roof pitches where some other materials don’t manage.

Concrete doesn’t last as long as slate but they are more cost-effective, so things can balance out. If you are happy with the look – and there are lots of options – they are a very practical and budget-friendly choice.

Other roofing options

There are other options for roofing that have their benefits. Shingles are made from wood, typically a Western Red Cedar but also oak or other Irish wood. They weather beautifully with time and are naturally good insulators. Metal roofs are often associated with commercial projects but can work on some homes, especially on shallow pitches. They are very long lasting and can adapt to complex shapes.

Finding the right roofing material depends a lot on your home and your budget. But working with an experienced roofer means you can get the right material to look great and last the longest time.

How to Fix Your Home’s Flat Roof

For many years, flat roofs were the nightmare of the homeowner. They were even a question on your insurance application because they could be so prone to leaking and pulling apart. But the situation has changed in recent times as more varieties of materials have come along to handle the problem of the flat roof. Here are some of the most effective.

EPDM membrane

One of the most popular options for flat roofs is called an EPDM membrane. Systems such as DuoPly have also added other layers to this such as a polyester layer to further enhance the system. EPDM is a lightweight, flexible and hardwearing option for most sizes of flat roof with a long lifespan. It works well with Velux skylights and other features and roof repairs are relatively simple for an expert from roofing companies in Bray.

Roofing felt

Roofing felt has been the choice for flat roofs for a long time, but modern products are much better quality and there are also options for hot melt finishes that make them even stronger. Felt has proven results and a well-known lifespan as well as being suitable for any roof size. Perhaps the biggest downside of it is that it isn’t suitable for regular footfall – fine for someone doing some repairs to slating or tiling but not for a balcony getting regular use.

Asphalt

Asphalt is a common sight on footpaths but has also been adapted to use on roofs. It is a budget-friendly option and is very hard wearing as well as working on most roof sizes. It has a long lifespan and it is relatively easy for roofers to repair it if there is some severe weather that causes damage. It does require a strong roof structure and is less flexible than other materials.

Metal

While seeing metal in the form of zinc, copper or lead flashing is common, homes are less likely to have metal on their roofs. But new roofs are now being constructed for homes in metal in some cases. They are very durable and non-combustible as well as having some heat reflective properties. Perhaps the main reason for considering metal is that it can be formed around flashings and other irregular roof features where other materials might struggle.

GRP fibreglass

If you have a smaller flat roof space, then GRP fibreglass may be worth considering. It is lightweight and very hard wearing as well as being very resistant to vandalism. There are no problems with joints leaking as it is truly jointless and has a good lifespan, although not as good as some other materials. It isn’t ideal for areas where you walk however as it is very slippery and isn’t flexible.

Flat roof options

These five flat roofing materials are the most popular on offer around Ireland. By working with your roofing company to get the right one, having a section of flat roof on your home doesn’t need to be a problem. And you can certain it remains weatherproof for years to come.