The roof of any home is the first defense against wind, snow and rain, but if your house needs a new one, you can be overwhelmed when it comes to choosing the right materials. Before you choose one to be installed, learn about the most common types of materials, including copper, wood, slate and asphalt. The right choice depends on your home and your   roofing   contractors , so make sure to get opinions from a few different  roofing  companies to ensure that you’re selecting the right material for your house.

The Benefits Of Copper

Copper is a durable choice for homeowners who want a long-lasting and fireproof material. Copper can last up to 100 years, but it’s also lightweight. Most copper that’s used in roofs is also up to 75% recycled and this, when combined with its longevity, makes it an excellent choice for homeowners who want an environmentally friendly roof.

What  Roofing   Contractors  Have To Say About Wood Shingles

Wood is popular because of its natural look. As roofs age, the shingles turn to a soft gray color. However, this aging doesn’t mean that homeowners will be replacing them often. Wooden shingles have a lifespan of up to 30 years, when they’re taken care of. Like traditional asphalt shingles, it’s easy to repair or replace just a few shingles if they are blown off in a storm, which means it’s unnecessary to reroof the whole house. Lastly, because wood is a natural insulator, it may even reduce heating and cooling costs.

Using Slate For Roofs

One of the biggest benefits of using slate for a home’s roof is that it can last up to 150 years when it’s properly installed. It’s also fireproof, which means it’s especially appropriate for homes in areas that are susceptible to wildfires, and is eco-friendly because it’s a substance that naturally occurs in the earth and it helps keep other materials out of landfills because homeowners won’t need to replace it every 20-30 years.

The Most Common Material From Roofing Companies — Asphalt

Asphalt is the most commonly used material for roofs and there are a few good reasons for this. Asphalt looks good with very little maintenance and although heavy winds can damage shingles, it’s possible for  roofing   contractors  — or even handy homeowners — to repair them with a little effort. This also means that it’s not always necessary to replace the entire roof if there’s a problem with just a few shingles. Additionally, asphalt is one of the most affordable choices and is lightweight, which means it can be used on a variety of homes.

Before you decide which option is right for your home, talk to a few local  roofing   contractors  to get their opinions. They’ll be able to tell you which is the right material for your house, your local area and even your neighborhood. Don’t forget to get a few different quotes and research companies before signing a contract to make sure that you’re working with one that has a long-standing local presence.