Most Common Roofing Options and their Pros and Cons

One of the most essential components of any property is the roofing. It not only protects you and your home but also adds considerable aesthetic value to it. Across the globe, numerous types of roofing materials are used based on several factors, such as climatic conditions, personal preferences, availability of raw materials, and budget. In the United Kingdom, several materials such as EPDM, fibreglass, metal, slate, clay or concrete tiles, and Asphalt shingles are commonly used for preparing the roofing. Each of these materials has advantages and disadvantages, so before you avail of any roof installation service, read our brief guide to learn about different roofing materials and their properties.

Pros and Cons of EPDM Roofing

EPDM stands for Ethylene Propylene Diene, a synthetic rubber produced through polymerization. It has been a primary choice for roofing for years due to several positive attributes. From Roofers Sidcup to elsewhere in the United Kingdom, roofing companies swear by EPDM.

Pros

1. EPDM has high resistance to Ultraviolet Rays and can withstand extreme temperatures. More importantly, sudden changes in temperature do not affect EPDM as it is highly elastic and returns to its original shape easily.
2. EPDM is also ideal for outdoor installations because of its resistance to water. It is used in several waterproofing applications.
3. It has unmatched longevity even when exposed to harsh elements. It does not deteriorate easily, making it an ideal roofing choice.
4. It is a relatively affordable roofing option and easy to install. Its high flexibility allows it to be customized according to requirements.
5. EPDM offers above average insulation and can help you contain your energy bills.

Cons

1. Despite being a sturdy roofing material, regular inspections should be carried out to ensure it is not damaged.
2. There are few colour options available in EPDM roofing, and it may not provide an incredibly aesthetic look to your home.

Slate Roofing

Used as a roofing material since ancient times, slate is prepared from natural stones and offers a truly aesthetic look.

Pros

• Slate roofs are highly aesthetic and available in several colours to match the exterior of your home.
• Slate roofs can last a century with a bit of maintenance and care because of their high durability and high resistance to climatic conditions.
• Slate offers high resistance to fire, keeping your property safe from fire hazards.
• Slate is resistant to mold and rot. They also have good insulation properties.
• Slate roofs do not demand considerable maintenance.

Cons

• Slate roofs cost more than other roofs because of their unique appeal.
• They are heavy and brittle. They require a strong support structure and can easily break.
• Slate roof installation requires advanced installation skills.

Tile Roofs

Concrete or clay tile roofing is a popular choice in the United Kingdom. Available in a wide range of colours and designs, they are visually pleasing and aesthetic.

Pros

• Manufactured from either clay or concrete, tile roofs are incredibly durable and long-lasting.
• Just like EPDM and Slate, tiles are non-combustible and offer incredible protection from fire and radiation.
• Concrete tiles are available in countless colours, while clay tiles usually have a terracotta or a reddish colour. They are both equally aesthetic and can impart a unique look to your home.
• They have high resistance to weather conditions and require little maintenance.
• They have incredible insulation properties and can help you cut down your energy bills.

Cons

• Repair or replacement of individual tiles can be relatively difficult.
• The cost of tile roofing is on the higher side.
• Tiles are brittle and can break if something heavy falls on them.

Asphalt Shingles

Another very common roofing material in the United Kingdom and Europe is Asphalt Shingles.

Pros

• They are one of the most affordable roofing options which can fit anyone’s budget.
• When it comes to colours and designs, you have various options to choose from, and you can easily match the exterior of your home.
• Asphalt shingles are lightweight and do not require any additional support.

Cons

• Asphalt shingles do not have a long life, although they can be repaired or replaced easily.
• They offer little resistance to extreme temperatures and climatic conditions.

They do not have good insulation properties.