Author: Lee Polevoi | July 3, 2024

A crucial part of all roof installation services is suggesting the right type of roofing for customers. In the St. Louis, Missouri, area, this means offering a choice among a variety of materials. Each choice comes with its pros and cons, and customer-focused contractors can provide immeasurable assistance in helping determine what's best for their residential needs.

Climate conditions in and around St. Louis are at the top of every local homeowner's roofing concerns. Summer months can get very hot, and winters often see freezing conditions. Unpredictability is a key factor in assessing the weather in this region, since thunderstorms and high-velocity winds can descend on residents with little warning.

Homeowners in St. Louis need high-quality roofing materials that can withstand the test of time (and weather). Here are the roofing materials most contractors prefer as options for homeowners.

Metal

When it comes to contending with adverse weather conditions, metal roofing is generally regarded as among the most durable. Available in either panels or shingles, metal roofing is manufactured using such materials as copper, stainless steels, zinc or aluminum. Metal is more lightweight than most other materials and is often recyclable (which is appealing to environmentally conscious homeowners).

The principal benefits of metal roofing include a high degree of roof protection, with the capacity to permit rainwater and snow to funnel away from the home. Because of their resistance to UV rays, metal roofs are also energy-efficient, reflecting light and heat off residential structures and helping maintain a comfortable, cool environment for homeowners.

Roofs composed of metal panels typically stay in place despite heavy snowfalls, tempestuous winds and hail. In terms of durability, it's not unusual for metal roofs to endure for many decades.

One less advantageous consideration is that some materials, primarily copper, cost more than others. Although copper can withstand harsh weather conditions, there's always the potential for dents to occur from hail and similar elements. Nonetheless, copper colors can add significant curb appeal to a roof, assuming a tasteful shade after decades of use. For residents wavering over the costs of copper, a roofing contractor can always suggest its use in flashing, gutters and chimney caps.

Asphalt Shingles

Among St. Louis homeowners, asphalt shingles remain a top favorite. Why? Asphalt roofs are usually less expensive to install and maintain than other materials. Asphalt shingles are waterproof and fireproof, and can stay in place for three, possibly four decades. Also, comparably less work and tools are required for installation, thus making the replacement of shingles largely hassle-free.

The unwelcome growth of algae or fungal growth can be an ongoing homeowner concern. Left unchecked, algae collects on limestone granules and can seriously undermine the integrity of asphalt shingles. (In worst-case scenarios, fungus becomes lichen, a significantly greater threat to the quality of asphalt shingles.)

For this reason, it's wise to offer homeowners the option of algae-resistant shingles. These materials prevent the appearance of unsightly stains, minimize the risk of losing heat and energy due to fungal growth, and can prevent further damage later. Best of all, this option reduces (or can eliminate) the need for professional contractors to return to the home to keep the shingles algae-free.

Concrete Tiles

Owners of Mediterranean- or Spanish-style homes who place a high priority on external appearances often prefer concrete (or clay) tiles for their roofing material of choice. The curbside appeal (which can range in colors from green, red or blue to time-honored terra cotta) is a driving force behind this preference. It doesn't hurt that concrete tiles are built to resist potential damage due to harsh weather, pests and types of mold.

Of course, concrete is a heavier roofing material and should be considered only with a thorough understanding of a structure's foundational integrity. At the same time, concrete tiles don't need much maintenance and have been known to endure weather conditions such as those in the St. Louis area for as long as 90 to 100 years!

Slate

Slate is another popular choice among St. Louis homeowners. It's a resilient material, able to offset the potential harm of bad weather (heavy rain, snowfall, blizzards, etc.). Like concrete, slate is heavier weight, which contributes to its ability to endure for many decades.

Slate installation can be more costly than other roofing materials, but that's because, if installed incorrectly, expensive repairs may become necessary. As a result, installation should be the sole responsibility of a skilled professional contractor (this isn't a DIY-type project).

Homeowners depend on the expertise of roofing contractors. Those who offer the best guidance around roof installation services and materials will likely find a larger, more receptive and loyal customer base.

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