Whether you are building a brand new home for the first time or you are looking to upgrade an aging roof that is made out of shingles or tile, you should understand the pros and cons that come with metal roofing in Columbus, Ohio if you are considering a metal roof for your home.

Get the Facts About Metal Roofs for Your Home – Pros, Cons, and Important Considerations

Let’s take a quick look at what some of the general pros and cons of metal roof installation in Columbus, Ohio are!

Metal Roofs for Homes

Metal roofs may not come to mind when you think about roofing materials for your home, but they can be a great option to consider. They bring both pros and cons to the table:

The Benefits of Metal Roofs

Key benefits of metal roofs include:

• Energy efficient – work to reflect the sun and cut cooling costs
• Long lifespans that typically extend beyond 50 years.
• Highly durable – made out of long lasting materials like steel and copper
• Available in many different colors and style variations
• Sustainable – metal roofs are recyclable when their life comes to an end.

The Disadvantages of Metal Roofs

Notable disadvantages of metal roofs include:

• High initial installation cost when compared to other roofing materials
• Potential for noise during severe weather
• Prone to dents and peeling, depending on the metal type
• Potential for rusting, particularly in steel roofs

Metal roofs in general are a very popular option for homeowners thanks to their durability and long lifespan. But they do carry a higher cost than other roofing materials and may not fit the overall aesthetic every homeowner wants for their home. Be sure to take your time to think over the pros and cons of metal roofs before reaching out to a roofing company for metal roof installation in Columbus, Ohio.

Installation and Repairs

Perhaps one of the most important considerations to keep in mind when picking a roofing material for your home is the general cost of installation, repairs, and maintenance. Initial cost is important, but so are the long term investments that will be required to maintain your home’s roof.

Cost of Installation and Repairs

The cost of a metal roof installation in Columbus, OH can vary depending on the roofing company that you choose to work with. And while the initial upfront cost of metal roofing can be higher than asphalt shingle roofing, keep in mind that costs are higher because the materials are more expensive.

Metal roofs are very durable and long-lasting, as mentioned before. Metal roofs are able to withstand severe weather, high winds, and other types of damage like fallen trees and snow much more than other roof types. They also bring resistance to mold and fungal growth.

This resistance can help cut down on the cost of repairs that you might face with other roofing materials.

Maintenance Tips for Metal Roofs

While metal roofs are known for their low maintenance, it is still key to schedule regular maintenance to ensure that you get the full lifespan possible!

Regular maintenance can include:

• Scheduling annual inspections.
• Checking for rust and corrosion.
• Repairing any damage from severe weather.
• Checking your home’s insultation and ventilation.
• Inspecting fasteners and other key parts of your roof system.

Durability of Metal Roofs

One of the biggest pros of metal roofs are their durability. Their durability includes:

• Fire resistance: Metal roofs offer high resistance to catching fire and can help protect homes from potential sparks that might otherwise catch on other roofing materials.
• Wind resistance: Metal roofs are able to withstand high winds. The way metal roofs are installed, typically through an interlocking system, help create a sturdy, wind resistant hold.
• Long lifespan considerations: Other features of durability that metal roofs have include resistance to cracking, eroding, fungal growth, and mildew.

Cons related to the durability of metal roofs include:

• Noise: Metal can be noisier than other roof types, especially during weather conditions like rain and hail.
• Denting: While resistant to damage from weather, metal roofs do still have the potential for denting, especially for softer materials like copper.
• Expansion: Over time, metal can expand and contract. This can be affected by seasonal and temperature changes.

Aesthetics of Metal Roofs

Lastly, the aesthetics of that metal roofs offer are an important consideration for homeowners.

Variety in Color, Style, and Design Options

Metal roofs come in a wide variety of colors, styles, and design options.

Popular color options include black, gray, brown, green, blue, and red. Depending on the roofing company you choose to work with, other colors may be available, including custom colors, which offer you a lot of flexibility.

There is also a lot of flexibility in the metal roof style you can choose as well. Some common metal roof styles include:

• Standing seam
• Metal tiles
• Metal shingles

Each color option and style of metal roof can play a special consideration for your home curb appeal. Metal roofing in Columbus, Ohio can typically be designed or customized to match your home’s existing design, to tie into any landscaping you have in mind, or just to match your personal aesthetic vision for your home.

Other areas of concern to keep in mind when you are considering metal roofing for your home include the weight factors with installing metal roofs and insulation considerations.

J.F. Baker’s Sons Roofing Company is based in Columbus, Ohio. A local, family-owned roofing company, J.F. Baker’s Sons was originally founded in 1929 and has been providing clients in the Central Ohio area with expert roofing services. They offer a full range of services including metal roof installation in Columbus, Ohio. Whether you have a residential or commercial roofing project, J.F. Baker’s Sons Roofing Company can help. They can be reached over the phone or online to learn more about the metal roofing in Columbus, Ohio they offer.

The roof is an important structural part of any building, residential or commercial. Any type of roofing project that Columbus roofing contractors like the team here at J.F. Baker’s Sons Roofing Company take on will require roofing materials. And whether you are looking to have a roof installed for the first time, replace a roof, or even just have repairs done, it can be helpful to have a better understanding of just how much roofing material you will need.

The amount of roofing material needed will vary depending on a number of factors including the type of roofing services needed, the size of the roof, and even the shape. To give yourself a better understanding of the roofing material you will need and the type of budget you may need to consider, you can calculate the amount of roofing material for a given project.

Below, we take a closer look at how you can calculate how much roofing material you may need for your roof.

The Ultimate Guide to Calculating Your Roofing Material Needs

Follow the below steps as you calculate your roofing material needs.

Determine the Size of Your Roof

You will want to measure the length and width of each side of your roof to calculate its total square footage. You can typically do this by looking at the blueprints for your building or by using a tape measure to do it along the sides of the roof itself.

Be sure to measure the width of each single plane of your roof. For example, a flat roof may only have one large plane to measure while a roof that has hips, dormers, or other additional elements will be a little more complex to measure.

Consider the Shape of Your Roof

Is your roof flat, gabled, or a hipped roofing structure with multiple sides and angles? Keeping the overall shape of your roof in mind will be important as you determine the size of it.

If your roof has complex shapes or elements, such as dormers and hips, the square footage of your roof will not be the exact square footage of your home.

Select the Type of Material You’ll Use

Selecting the type of roofing material you want to use will affect how much material you need. If you are looking to have your roof repaired, you will want to stick with the same type of material that your existing roof is already made out of.

But for things like roof installation or replacement, you can consider other types of roofing materials. Factors that might impact the material you choose include:

• What kind of look and feel you want to your home or business
• The climate of your area
• Your budget
• The lifespan you’d like out of your roof

Shingles, metal, tile, or other roofing materials will all affect how much material you need. Be sure to carefully consider what material you want to choose.

Calculate the Number of Bundles or Squares Needed

No matter the material, all roofing materials typically come in bundles or squares. To calculate the number of bundles or squares needed, divide your total square footage by 100.

This will tell you how many bundles or squares will be needed.

If you would like to have professional Columbus roofing contractors handle these calculations for you, be sure to connect with our team to request a roofing estimate.

Take into Account Waste Factors

Roofing services completed by a Columbus roofing company will always result in some type of waste. To account for that waste, allow for a 5-10% waste factor when purchasing materials. This will ensure you have enough to cover unexpected issues during installation.

And if your roof has complex elements like hips, valleys, and dormers, you may want to bump the waste factor up to 15% just to give yourself a bit of a cushion.

Estimate Additional Accessories

From roofing repair to a full roof replacement, it’s not just the visible roofing materials like shingles that will be needed. Don’t forget to take into account additional items like nails, flashing, and underlayment for a complete estimate of what your project will cost!

You’ll also want to account for other features like whether or not your building has a chimney, skylights, dormer windows, solar panels, and things like attic fans. These extra accessories and additions to your roof should be accounted for in your calculations and budget.

Connect with an Experienced Columbus Roofing Company for a Free Estimate

While the above steps are a great way to calculate your own estimation of how much roofing material you may need for your home or business, we always recommend connecting with our team of Columbus roofing contractors here at J.F. Baker’s Sons Roofing Company.

Serving Central Ohio since 1929, we are proud to be a trusted Columbus roofing company that is locally owned and operated. We offer both residential and commercial roofing services, including roof installation and repairs. And while calculating your own estimate of the amount of roofing material needed for your roof is a good place to start, we are here to help provide a professional estimate to you.

To request an estimate, reach out to us over the phone at 614-297-ROOF or by filling out our online contact form. A member of our team will contact you as soon as possible.

As a homeowner, you are most likely aware of the potential harm that pests of all kinds can cause to your home. A recent 2022 survey conducted by Forbes found that over 50% of respondents reported they had experienced structural damage to their homes thanks to pest infestations. Pest infestations can cause minor to major damage to a house and can easily cost you money in both repairs and pest control.

And while pests can affect your home in more than one location, we want to take a look at how to address pest infestations in your roof. So, how do you deal with pest infestations in your home and how do you repair a damaged roof?

Below, we discuss how to deal with pest damage to your roof and how working with a roof repair specialist in Columbus, Ohio can help.

What Pest is Most Damaging to a House?

One pest that can cause a great deal of damage to a house is termites. According to information complied by pest control company Orkin, termites damage about 600,000 homes in the U.S. each year. And it is estimated that U.S. residents spend about $5 billion annually on termite control and termite damage repair collectively.

These numbers point to termites being a major cause of damage to homes when it comes to pest damage. Termite colonies and the damage they can cause (i.e., how much wood they can destroy) will largely depend on a few factors:

• Type of termite
• Size of the termite colony
• Type and condition of the wood
• Temperature
• Food sources available

How to Repair a Damaged Roof?

Repairing a damaged roof is a multi-step process. Let’s take a look at what steps you need to take to identify a pest infestation that has caused damage to your roof.

Identify the Type of Pests Causing Damage

Identifying the types of pests that are damaging your roof can be done by inspecting the roof for signs of damage, looking for droppings, and listening for unusual sounds. Damage that can commonly be a sign of a pest infestation include:

• Damaged wood
• Water damage
• Mud tubes (small, brown lines at the base of your home, most often spotted outside)
• Bite marks on your skin
• Small droppings (this can indicate a rodent infestation)
• Sawdust trails
• Unusual smells or noises
• Nesting signs

These signs may point to a pest infestation of any of the following:

• Termites
• Ants
• Bees
• Bats
• Mice
• Squirrels
• Wasps
• Birds
• Rats

Take Preventative Measures

There are preventative measures you can take on your own to help lessen the pest infestation as you try to determine if you need professional help. Some common prevention steps to take include:

1. Clean out gutters.
2. Fix leaky plumbing.
3. Keep water from accumulating anywhere in your house, particularly in the gutters or on the roof.
4. Trim any trees close to the house.
5. Repair any leaks or cracks in or near the roof.
6. Seal off entry points to the roof and your home. This may involve caulking cracks or covering up holes.
7. Clean out any clutter that may serve as a hiding spot for pests, particularly in your attic.
8. Use pesticides responsibly.

Bring in Professional Help

If necessary, call a pest control expert to inspect your home. Sometimes your preventative measures can address some of the pest infestation, but other times you may have a more serious problem on your hands.

A pest control expert has expert knowledge in how to handle pest infestations. They will be able to come in and take stock of the full extent of your infestation. They will inspect the damage as well. Once they determine the damage and the type of pest you are dealing with, they will be able to provide specific remedies to address the infestation.

Some common remedies that a pest control expert may use include:

• Professional grade insecticides or pesticides
• Traps
• Fogging the infected area
• Wasp nest removal
• Heat treatment

Repair Damaged Areas

Once the infestation has been addressed, it is important to repair any damaged areas that you find in your roof. We recommend working with a Columbus roof repair and installation company like J.F. Baker’s Sons Roofing Company for any and all repair work you need. Repair work following a pest problem may include:

1. Replace shingles.
2. Fix missing flashing.
3. Replace damaged fascia boards and soffits as needed.
4. Address wear and tear from pests.
5. Resealment of the roof if needed.
6. Address any structural damage.

Pest damage can range from minor to major. It is important to have a roof repair specialist in Columbus, Ohio perform an inspection of your roof once you know there is pest damage. A specialist will be able to provide you with a full understanding of the damage to your roof.

Invest in a Good Quality Roof Maintenance Program

Once your roof is repaired, be sure to have your roof inspected regularly to prevent future damage from occurring. By investing in a quality roof maintenance program, you can help keep a closer eye on your roof – both for potential damage and future pest infestations.

Reach out to J.F. Baker’s Sons Roofing Company today to learn more about how roof maintenance can help your home. We provide free estimates for our roofing services. Other services including:

• Roof installation
• Residential roofing
• Commercial roofing
• Gutter services
• Sheet metal fabrication

Implement an Integrated Pest Management Plan

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines an integrated pest management plan as an “effective and environmentally sensitive approach to pest management that relies on a combination of common-sense practices.” So, what does that mean for you?

For you, an integrated pest management plan involves using a combination of preventative measures such as traps, baits, and natural repellents to control pest populations. An integrated plan can be used both in an agricultural setting and in a non-agricultural setting, such as inside your home. Preventative measures such as those we discussed above like cleaning out gutters, fixing leaks and cracks, and keeping clutter to a minimum can all be a part of your plan.

Connect with Our Roof Repair Specialists in Columbus, Ohio

Following a pest infestation, you can trust J.F. Baker’s Sons Roofing Company as your go-to Columbus roof repair and installation company. With over 90 years of experience, we can help repair any damage done to your roof.

Connect with us online or over the phone at 614-297-ROOF today to learn more.

Overview of Flat Roofs

Flat roofs are characterized by their relatively level surface, often with a slight slope to facilitate water drainage.  Flat roofs can be a popular choice for roofing options, especially if you are looking to get away from the more traditional sloped roof. They are versatile roofs and tend to be aesthetically pleasing, but they can also cause issues such as roof leaks.

Ohio’s climate, with its varying temperatures and precipitation levels, can also impact the performance and lifespan of flat roofs.

Flat roofs bring a number of benefits to the table when considered for a residential or commercial building, but they also bring a number of challenges as well. And as a trusted Columbus commercial flat roofing company, we are going to take a look at what the advantages and disadvantages of a flat roof can be.

Benefits and Challenges of Choosing a Flat Roof in Commercial Buildings

Just like any other kind of roof type, flat roofs bring both advantages and disadvantages to the table when they are chosen for a commercial building. From being much easier to install than pitched or sloped roofs to being more at risk for incurring damage from inclement weather, flat roofs may or may not be the best choice for your roofing needs depending on what type of building you have and what you want out of your roof.

Advantages and Disadvantages of a Flat Roof

Advantages of Flat Roofs

• Cost: Flat roofs are known to be a cost-effective roofing choice across the board. They take up much less space and use less material when compared to sloped and pitched roofs, meaning that the initial installation of a flat roof is much less costly.
• Durability: A flat roof is a durable roof choice, often lasting between 10 to 20 years. With proper routine maintenance, a flat roof can last longer. Durability will be impacted by the roofing material you ultimately choose, with materials like PVC and TPO typically offering longer lasting flat roofs.
• Simplicity: A flat roof is a simple roofing option that still provides versatility and curb appeal for any commercial building. They offer a clean look to the outside of a building but still provide necessary protection from outside elements.
• Reduced Maintenance Requirements: Flat roofs make maintenance easier to carry out, which typically leads to reduced maintenance requirements. Due to their flatness, flat roofs make maintenance a much easier process, allowing commercial flat roofing contractors in Columbus, Ohio easier access to the roof itself and anything else that may need maintenance such as skylights or HVAC systems. This leads to lower labor costs and less time needed on roof repairs.
• Energy efficiency: Flat roofs can be designed to improve insulation and reduce energy consumption.
• Additional space: Flat roofs can be used as outdoor living spaces or for solar panel installation.
• Accessibility: Flat roofs are easier to access for maintenance and repairs.
• Modern aesthetic: Flat roofs can complement contemporary architectural styles

Disadvantages of Flat Roofs

• Limited Space for Furnishings: Flat roofs are often used as additional outdoor space. Some people choose to turn them into roof gardens or even add things like outdoor furniture. But it is important to keep in mind that a flat roof may have limited space for furnishings, considering that other critical roofing features may be found on the roof as well, including HVAC systems and safety railings.
• Leakage Issues: Sloped roofs handle water easily. If it rains, water will slide right off of a sloped roof. This is not the case with flat roofs. Flat roofs are designed with enough of a slope for water to not pool, they are still prone to water accumulation. Water accumulation can lead to moisture damage and roof leaks, especially without proper maintenance.
• Increased Risk of Damage from Weather: Flat roofs are known for their increased risk of damage from weather, especially from water and the cold. For building owners in Ohio, this is an important challenge to take note of. Water is more likely to collect on flat roofs and things like ice dams bring a higher risk of snow and ice accumulation in the colder months.
• Waterproofing: Flat roofs require proper waterproofing to prevent leaks and damage.
• Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the longevity and functionality of flat roofs.
• Snow accumulation: Flat roofs can accumulate snow, which can increase the risk of roof collapse.
• Limited design options: Flat roofs may have fewer design options compared to sloped roofs.
• Potential for ponding water: If not properly designed or maintained, flat roofs can experience ponding water.

While flat roofs bring both advantages and disadvantages that need to be kept in mind, be sure to consult with J.F. Baker’s Sons Roofing Company. As a Columbus commercial flat roofing company, our team can help determine if a flat roof is right for you.

Factors to Consider

• Climate: Ohio’s climate can impact the performance and maintenance requirements of flat roofs.
• Building codes: Local building codes may have specific regulations for flat roofs.
• Personal preferences: Consider your own preferences and lifestyle when choosing a roof type.

Tips for Overcoming Potential Problems with Flat Roofs

With a better understanding of the pros and cons of flat roofs, here are two key tips to help you overcome any potential issues you might face with a flat roof.

1. Invest in quality materials. The type of roofing materials you choose for your flat roof will greatly impact the longevity of your roof. Luckily, there are a number of different flat roof material choices, such as built-up roofs and single ply membranes. You can also add additional weather proofing to a flat roof.
2. Schedule regular professional inspections and maintenance. To ensure your roof lasts as long as possible and is protecting your commercial building from the elements, routine maintenance and inspections will help keep your roof free of damage, accumulated water, leaks, and sealed properly.

Creative Solutions to Make the Most Out of Your Flat Roof

If you want to get the most out of your flat roof, you can add features to it such as solar panels or add in green roofing solutions.

Solar panels can be an excellent addition to a flat roof. While you will need to invest in mounting equipment for the panels, solar panels can help cut down on electricity costs for your building and can maximize the space to be found on a flat roof.

Green roofing solutions can involve making the roof accessible to employees and visitors to your commercial building by creating a garden space or an outdoor lounge. This can not only add additional outdoor space to your building, but it can also allow you to have a positive environmental impact if you add plants and trees to the outdoor space on your flat roof.

Final Considerations When Choosing a Flat Roof for Your Commercial Building

Utilizing all of the available space to you as a commercial building owner is critical. A flat roof, when maintained properly and given careful consideration before installation, can help provide your building with additional space and an aesthetic appeal.

If you would like to learn more about how our commercial flat roofing contractors in Columbus, Ohio can help, reach out today. Call us at 614-297-7663 or request an estimate.

Your home in general is a big investment on its own.  Add on the roof itself, and you will quickly start to understand why investing in a good roof can be just as important as the time and money spent on your home in other areas. Taking the time to invest in a good roof, whether you are having a new roof installed, in need of roof repairs, or you are looking to replace a roof, can make all the difference in the short and long term.

Here at J.F. Baker’s Sons Roofing Company, we understand the importance of high-quality roofing in Columbus, Ohio. Having a good, high-quality roof on your home can make all the difference in how well your home is protected. A good roof helps to protect you and anyone else living in your home from the elements, helps add to the curb appeal of your home on the exterior, and helps to maintain the overall structure of your home. These are just a few ways that having a good roof on your home can make a difference.

But whether you are a first-time homeowner or you are just settling into renovations on the home you’ve had for years, let’s take a look at some of the important reasons to invest in a good roof below.

Reasons to Invest in Your Roof Today to Save Money in the Long Run

A quality roof will help your home stand against the elements, increase the value of your home, and improve a number of other features such as energy efficiency and your home’s aesthetic. So, here are six reasons to invest in your roof today to save money in the long run and see a long-lasting roof on top of your home.

1: Invest in a durable and energy-efficient roof to reduce your monthly heating and cooling bills.

When it comes to owning a home, you know that heating and cooling bills can fluctuate throughout the year. And what type of roof you have can greatly impact the overall cost of monthly heating and cooling – whether it’s the high temperatures of summer or time for snow during the winter.

A roof that is made out of durable and energy-efficient roofing materials like metal, clay tile, or slate, can help insulate your home and reject heat. This means that you can typically rely on your AC and heating system a little less during certain times of the year, seeing a reduction in your monthly bills.

2: Consider replacing your old asphalt shingle roof with a metal or rubber roof that can provide superior protection against weather conditions.

While asphalt shingle roofs have seen plenty of advancement in recent years and are now more energy-efficient than they’ve been in the past, there are still superior roofing materials out there to choose from. Metal and rubber are two roofing materials that can provide even more protection against rough weather conditions than asphalt shingles can.

Metal roofing in particular is one of the most popular, durable roofing materials because of its ability to withstand weather like snow and rain. Going with a metal or rubber roof can be a great way to extend your roof’s life expectancy and protect your home further.

If you’re unsure what roofing material would be best for you, be sure to connect with a residential roofing company in Columbus, Ohio.

3: Look for signs of wear and tear on your existing roof and repair any premature damage before it gets more serious.

Your roof, no matter the material, can be damaged by all kinds of things including:

• Wind damage
• Structural damage
• Leaks
• Damaged flashing
• Hail damage

Wear and tear are also extremely common signs of damage to keep an eye out for on your roof. Eventually, every roof will need to be replaced, no matter how well it’s been taken care of. But by catching wear and tear prematurely, you can help keep your roof in working order as long as possible.

Regularly check for wear and tear. Have any damage repaired in as timely a manner as possible to help keep it from getting worse.

4: Get an inspection done by an experienced professional to identify potential issues that should be addressed sooner rather than later.

While it never hurts to keep an eye on your roof yourself, it always helps to have an inspection done by a professional in the residential roofing space in Columbus, Ohio. A professional will perform a meticulous roof inspection that goes over every aspect of your roof.

For example, here at J.F. Baker’s Sons Roofing Company, our team of roofers will perform an inspection with the intent to provide you with information about your roof that will allow you to make informed decisions about any work you need to be completed.

5: Consider investing in upgraded insulation materials to further improve energy efficiency.

Roof upgrades don’t only have to be on the outside. Internally, you can consider investing in upgraded insulation materials. Higher quality insulation in areas of your home like the attic, crawl spaces, and exterior walls will help to keep your home cool in the summer and warmer in the winter.

According to the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, the average American spends around $2,000 on energy annually. Some $200 to $400 of that amount can be wasted due to air leaks, drafts, and outdated systems. It’s important to remember your roof is part of your home’s ventilation system. Upgraded insulation materials will help your home be even more energy-efficient and save you money in the long run.

6: Look into installing solar panels to generate power for your home and save money on electricity bills in the long run.

Solar panels have been proven to help reduce the overall costs of electricity bills for homeowners. By looking into having solar panels installed on your roof or home, you will be able to generate power on your own. This will help reduce the cost of your electricity bills in the long run by cutting back on the amount of electricity you use from other sources.

Not only will you save money on your electricity bills, but you will also add additional value to your home.

Connect with a Trusted Roofing Company in Columbus, Ohio

If you require roofing in Columbus, Ohio, connect with J.F. Baker’s Sons Roofing Company today to request an estimate over the phone at 614-295-ROOF or online.

When it comes to roof installation in Columbus, Ohio, there are many different types of roofing materials to choose from, including asphalt shingles and clay or concrete tiles. While the easy choice may be to go with the same type of material that you had previously, it can be a good idea to take into account the other types of roofing material available.

Depending on your home and what you would like to get out of your roofing material, there may be a more appealing option. That appeal may be found in the cost, the durability of the material, or the additional benefits that a certain material may bring to your home.

Choosing the right roofing material for your roof installation in Columbus, Ohio is important. Your roof keeps your home safe from external weather conditions and can impact the look and feel of your home. Below, we take a closer look at how to choose the best roofing material for your home.

How to Choose the Best Roofing Material for Your Home

As an experienced team of roofing replacement contractors in Columbus, Ohio, we have a great understanding of the different types of roofing materials available. Here are five types of roofing materials that you can pick to use for your roof installation or replacement.

Note: All cost averages have been pulled from Architectural Digest (as of October 17, 2023) and are meant to reflect a general idea of cost. These may not reflect J.F. Baker’s Sons Roofing Company roofing material costs. Please schedule a free estimate with our team to learn more about the cost of roofing materials with our Columbus roofing company.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are one of the most common and affordable roofing materials out there. According to data collected by the Home Innovation Research Labs, about 80% of homes in the United States had asphalt shingle roofs as of 2018. They are used commonly in both new home builds and roofing replacements.

Asphalt shingle roofs will also typically last about 20 years if they are properly installed and maintained. Maintenance may include replacing damaged shingles.

Pros:

• Easy to install
• Customizable
• Affordable
• Available in a wide range of colors, styles, and materials

Cons:

• Can be at risk of storm damage, particularly by high winds
• Not as energy efficient as other roofing materials
• Often considered to be less durable than other options

Average cost per square foot: $4.25 to $8.25

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing is another popular roofing material. It typically is available either in shingle form or in panels and can be used for a wide range of building types and sizes. Metal roofs are particularly popular in areas that see heavy snowfall and for home and business owners who are interested in a more sustainable roofing option.

Metal roofing tends to have a longer lifespan than asphalt roofing, seeing a common lifetime of more than 30 years. And once a metal roof has worn out completely, it is recyclable. Regular maintenance of a metal roof will help to extend its life, including regularly cleaning out gutters and drains and cleaning mildew, branches, and other debris from the roof.

Pros:

• Highly durable
• Easy to install
• Has a long life expectancy
• Aesthetically pleasing and can suit a number of housing styles
• Easy to maintain

Cons:

• Can be costly
• May not be easy to install on certain roof styles
• Higher risk of rusting in coastal areas
• Potential to be noisy, especially during storms

Average cost per square foot (of corrugated metal): $5.50 to $11.50

Fiberglass-Based Asphalt Shingles

As noted above, asphalt shingles are available in several different variations. Fiberglass-based asphalt shingles are one of those variations. They are made out of a woven fiberglass base mat that is then covered with a waterproof asphalt coating. Their construction helps to protect the shingles from UV rays, giving your home and roof an additional layer of protection.

Less asphalt is used in fiberglass-based asphalt shingles, making them a lighter material option for roof installation in Columbus, Ohio. Maintenance for these types of shingles do not require any specific type of care, so general roof maintenance should suffice.

Pros:

• Affordable, particularly for sloped roofing projects
• Easy to install
• Fire resistant
• Low maintenance needs
• More environmentally friendly than asphalt shingles

Cons:

• Less environmentally friendly than other roofing materials
• Can be considered less durable than other roofing materials

Average cost per square foot (for basic three-tab shingles): $3.00 to $4.50

Clay or Concrete Tiles

Clay titles are typically made out of clays that are molded into various shapes that can interlock together. These tiles will usually come in a red-orange color, or they can be glazed for particular colors or designs. Clay tiles for roofing are a very popular choice in hot areas. They are extremely heat resistant and can have life expectancies of more than a century if maintained properly. Keep in mind that clay tiles can run more expensive than other roofing materials.

Concrete tiles are a popular alternative to clay tiles. They are installed in a similar manner to clay tiles but tend to run a little less expensive. They are a water-resistant roofing material and are known for offering roofs a long lifespan with tons of durability. Concrete tiles also offer lots of customization but can be a heavy type of roofing material to have installed.

Pros:

• Highly durable
• Very versatile and customizable
• Long lifespan
• Low maintenance
• Fire-resistant (clay) and water-resistant (concrete)

Cons:

• Expensive
• A weighty roofing material
• Can be difficult to install

Average cost per square foot: $12.00 to $24.75

Wood Shakes or Shingles

Wood shakes or shingles are a less common roofing choice than something like asphalt shingles, but they have plenty to offer. They bring a natural aesthetic to any home or building no matter the type of wood they are made out of (cedar is the most common type of wood shake or shingle), and they bring tons of curb appeal.

Wood roofing will have a shorter lifespan in areas with wet climates or areas that are at risk of wildfires. But in drier climates, wood roofs can last up to 50 years.

Pros:

• Environmentally friendly
• Curb appeal
• Variation in look, depending on if you choose shakes or shingles

Cons:

• Can be expensive
• High maintenance
• Vulnerable to issues like mildew, pests, and mold

Average cost per square foot (for cedar shingles or shakes): $8.00 to $14.30

Connect with a Trusted Columbus Roofing Company

Have you been looking for roofing replacement contractors in Columbus, Ohio? Reach out to our team today. With over 90 years of experience, we can help answer any questions you may have about the best roofing material for your roofing needs.

Contact us online or over the phone at 614-297-ROOF today.

Roofs play a crucial role in not only protecting homes but also families. If your roof is damaged, your family and property could be exposed to rain and other hazards like mold. As such, it’s important for expert roofers to ensure that your roof is in good condition. That said, before signing on the dotted line, you’ll want to get upfront estimates.