To some homeowners, living in the desert has its perks, but it certainly comes with its own challenges, especially when it comes to maintaining your property. With intense heat and harsh winds, selecting the right roofing materials is vital to protecting your house and keeping your family safe. Here are a few of the most popular roofing materials for desert homes, their benefits, and how to choose between the available options.
Common Roofing Materials for Desert Homes
1. Metal Roofing
Metal roofing, including aluminum, tin, copper, and steel, is a popular option for desert homes. Its heat-reflective capabilities and durability make metal ideal for areas that experience intense heat and wind. Metal roofs also come in various styles, including shingle, shake, and roofing tiles, giving you plenty of design options. Metal roofs require minimal maintenance, making them cost-effective in the long run.
2. Tile Roofing Materials for Desert Homes
Tiles are also popular options for desert homes, primarily due to their exceptional durability and heat resistance. Tiles come in different options, including concrete or ceramic, and can last up to 100 years with minimal maintenance. Tile is fire and insect-resistant. They reflect heat and provide insulation, keeping your home cool and reducing energy costs. However, tile roofing is heavy. Talk with a roofing expert or structural engineer to verify your property can handle the weight of the materials.
3. Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are a popular and cost-effective roofing option for desert properties. They come in various designs, colors, and textures suitable for various home designs. However, they have much lower durability and heat resistance than metal and tile options, with an average lifespan of between 20 and 30 years. Nonetheless, if you’re on a budget, asphalt shingles may be suitable for your home.
A quality roofing material helps ensure your desert home is well-insulated and protected from heat and harsh weather conditions. When planning for a roof replacement, consider each material’s costs, aesthetics, durability, and maintenance requirements before making a final decision. Thanks to their superior durability and weatherproofing abilities, metal and tile roofing options are excellent, albeit more expensive, choices for desert homes. Asphalt shingles may be the way to go if you’re working on a budget. Whatever roofing material you choose, hire an experienced professional for roof repairs or replacement, as they will have the knowledge and skills to complete the job right.
Horizon Inspection Services offers comprehensive home inspection services to customers in Arizona. If you’re buying or selling a home, contact us to schedule an appointment.