Different Types of Lightweight Roofing Tiles

If you’re interested in upgrading to a new roofing solution, could lightweight roofing tiles be beneficial to your home and wallet? What exactly could a lightweight roof offer you? And what are the best roofing material options?

Below, the roofing team from Gotcha Covered Contracting in Pittsburgh, PA, discusses popular lightweight roofing systems. When you’re ready to replace your roof, you can always call the roofers at (724) 581-8147 for a free quote!

The Benefits of Lightweight Roofing

All roofing materials vary in weight and everything else. Let’s take a look at lightweight and heavier materials to compare the options.

Heavy Roofs

Heavy Roof Slates

Your heaviest roofing systems are going to be choices like clay or cement tiles. The weight creates challenges for installation and complications with maintenance. There are also higher risks of damage down the line, including a heavier load on your home’s supporting structures.

If you decide to go with these heavier materials for your roof, you may need to replace all of the underlayments and support beams before you can install the new tiles. Typically, these heavy roof materials require a more expensive installation, as you must pay more in labor costs if you want the job done right. If anything goes wrong in the future, like a minor leak or a few cracked tiles, you’ll also face more costly repairs for a heavier, more complicated job.

Lightweight Roofs

Lightweight Roofs

While heavy roofs provide decent insulation, they often come with poor ventilation. The lack of airflow leads to moisture build-up, ice dams, and leaks. It also impacts your home’s energy efficiency.

By steering clear of heavy roofs and choosing lightweight tiles, you can enjoy the following benefits:

  • An easier, faster installation process
  • Cheaper labor costs
  • Simpler maintenance
  • Better ventilation
  • Improved energy efficiency
  • Reduced risks of cracks

The Lightest Roofing Options on the Market

What are the best lightweight roofing tiles? Whether you’re interested in traditional roofing or something more modern, try the following:

Metal

Schoemer standing seam metal roof 2

Metal roofing is, by far, the lightest option. Thin, durable metal sheets provide energy efficiency with excellent weather resistance against rain, wind, fire, and snow. With the right care, metal roof systems may last around 70 years.

Aluminum, zinc, steel, and other metals offer varying benefits, depending on your budget and durability preferences. On the downside, metal roofing can be quite costly. It is also susceptible to hail dents.

Composite

Composite Roofing

Composite roofs contain a weather-resistant, eco-friendly, recyclable blend of plastics, sand, asphalt, and other materials. Manufacturers like Brava Roof Tile, make these materials highly efficient and durable. Plus, the final result can mimic just about any roof tile, including slate or wood.

Due to its composition, this synthetic roofing offers a simple, lightweight installation. It also has ideal longevity, easy maintenance, and excellent resistance against hail, rain, or fire.

Rubber

Many flat roofs use rubber materials. Rubber roofs provide excellent waterproofing in areas that cannot naturally drain well.

If you’re seeking the most affordable option that’s still very lightweight, energy-efficient, and durable, rubber may be for you. Rubber may not be as stylish as other options, but you can’t fault it on its performance.

Asphalt

Asphalt Shingles Roofing Pittsburgh

Asphalt shingles are one of the most common roofing materials in the United States for a reason. Not only do you get to enjoy a lightweight installation, but asphalt comes at a highly affordable price point.

Your asphalt roof will withstand numerous weather patterns to a certain degree. It may not be as durable as composite or metal.

Reap the Benefits of a Lightweight Roof Today

Those are the benefits of lightweight roofing tiles and some of the best options on the market. If you’re ready to upgrade your current system, call Gotcha Covered Contracting today at (724) 581-8147!

Recent posts from our blog

Contact Us