Common Midwest Roofing Materials

You have many options for roofing materials, as most of them are at least suitable for new construction projects and re-roofing existing homes. Though, you should select your roofing material based on the style of your roof, your budget, and the appearance you prefer. 

These are some of the types of roofing materials you can choose from.

Asphalt Lasts

Asphalt shingles are amongst the most common types of roofing materials in the U.S. The popularity of these shingles derives mainly from the fact that they last long, they’re both lightweight, and they’re affordable. These characteristics make them highly versatile, so many roofers recommend them to their customers. 

You can purchase many different types of asphalt shingles, and many are also made using fiberglass. The fiberglass filler makes the material easier to handle and install, lowering costs. 

Asphalt is functional and affordable. These shingles can handle the harsh Midwest winter for as many as 20 years in some cases. So, you shouldn’t underestimate this popular low-cost option.

Wood is Durable and Easy to Work With 

Wood is one of the world’s most common building materials. We attribute this to the fact that wood is very durable, easy to work with, and even easier to install. One of the main downsides to wood, though, is that wood shingles are subject to the laws of nature. Therefore, roofs made of wood can rot or warp over time. 

Because of warping and rotting, many Midwest homeowners choose to avoid wooden shingles or shakes. This isn’t necessary, though. If you like the aesthetic appeal of wood and would prefer wooden shakes or shingles on your roof, you do have options! 

Pro-Line Contractors recommends that you choose a cost-effective, moisture-resistant option like cedar. Then, have the installation team also use moisture-proofing technologies to ensure optimal moisture control for your home’s roof. 

Slate is Heavy-Duty

Slate is a fine-grained rock material that is incredibly resistant to moisture and intense temperatures. This is the best-case scenario for Midwest homeowners, who face extreme heat in the summer and frigid cold in the winters. Not to mention, heavy rainfall can be quite common in the Spring. With these extreme weather conditions in mind, a highly durable, resistant roofing material can be essential to keeping your home properly insulated from the elements. 

Slate is a relatively rare material that is extracted manually from quarries. The material is also very heavy, so it costs more than other roofing materials to transport. Slate is so heavy that a slate roof typically requires structural supports that hold the weight of the material. This can add to the installation cost. But considering the ever-intense weather cycles of the Midwest, it can definitely prove worthwhile. At Pro-Line we partner with DaVinci Roofscapes to provide you with their luxurious and long-lasting DaVInci Slate and Shake.

Metal Lasts Longer

Metal has become a leading competitor with asphalt, which has, for a long time, been the most popular roofing material. That considered, metal roofs are growing in popularity as homeowners have become drawn to the unique benefits of the material. 

For one, metal roofs last much longer than asphalt shingles, and they can be far more energy-efficient, especially in the summer months. Though, the additional longevity and effectiveness of metal roofs have made metal roofs the more expensive option. 

In addition, metal roofs can handle temperature shifts well without suffering damage. Their durability is so excellent that many homeowners consider it the perfect roofing material for a home in the Midwest. Keep in mind, though, that metal roofs are prone to being dented by falling debris. If you live in an area that frequently has hailstorms or your home is right underneath a tree, you may not want to invest in a metal roof. 

These are some common metals used to make roof shingles:

• Copper
• Corrugated steel
• Aluminum
• Tin

Solar Shingles & Panels 

If your main priority in getting your roof redone is improving energy efficiency, you may want to invest in solar shingles. These shingles are a modern option that absorbs solar energy and converts it into power that you use in your home. They last 20 to 25 years and are pretty costly. Fortunately, you won’t need to install them all over your home’s roof. With that in mind, you should probably think about which material you will have installed on the rest of your roof.