As a Maryland homeowner, you know that the weather changes frequently. It can be rainy and cold one day and then sunny and warm the next, so you never know what to expect because no two days are precisely the same. This is why durability stands above all else when it’s time to replace your roof.
The only problem is that if you try to research roofing options in Maryland, there are so many styles, colors, and materials that it can be overwhelming. To help simplify the process for you, we’ve compiled a list of popular home roofing materials that suit Maryland’s climate well, so let’s take a look!
Wood Shingles
Wood shingles are attractive, affordable, and made from many types of wood such as cypress, spruce, cedar, redwood, and pine. Many homeowners prefer wood shingles because they add a unique touch to the overall look of a home.
Though wood shingles are environmentally-friendly and sustainable, they are not as durable against fire as other roofing materials. Still, they remain popular in Maryland because they fit in with the aesthetics of many homes in the state. So, if you’re looking for a roof that’s durable against harsh weather and relatively inexpensive, this is a great option.
Clay Tiles
Clay tiles are formed when the clay is combined with water, pressed together, and then baked in a kiln. These make an excellent roofing material for Maryland because they are wind-proof, freeze-proof, and fire-resistant, making them superb for peaks and valleys.
The only drawback is that clay tiles are among the most expensive roofing materials on the market. In fact, they are 20% to 30% more costly than other materials. However, these tiles can last anywhere from 50 up to 150 years, making them a great one-time investment.
Slate
Slate is a roofing material that’s been popular in Maryland for centuries. The stone is low weight, opaque, and water-resistant, making it great for building homes. Furthermore, this material is renowned for maintaining cooler temperatures for longer, making it a vital component for houses built in places where temperatures rise quickly.
Perhaps what homeowners love best is that it’s virtually maintenance-free. They have a lifespan of up to 100 years and can withstand any type of weather the state throws at them.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are among the top choices for homeowners in Maryland. Not only are they durable and require low maintenance, but this material is also eco-friendly. This type of roofing material is made from petroleum and is not tainted by chemicals, so climate change issues are rarely associated with asphalt.
Homeowners love that it’s malleable and lightweight, making it great for even the harshest of climates for at least 20 years. You have to be aware that asphalt shingles eventually begin to lose granules. And when they do this, they’ll start collecting in your eaves, requiring you to clean them more often to prevent clogs in your gutters.
Metal
Check out metal roofs if you’re looking for something more durable than asphalt or wood but less expensive than slate. They are fire-resistant, inexpensive, and highly durable. In fact, they can last 50 years or more.
Many Maryland homeowners prefer metal because it creates a dramatic contrast to the natural beauty of mortar or wood that many neighborhoods contain. Additionally, with a metal roof, you’ll find that your house is warmer during the winter months and cooler in the summer.
In the end, it’s important to remember that some roofing materials are better suited for Maryland houses than others. Most roofing companies suggest asphalt, slate, or metal to wood and clay, but ultimately the choice is yours, as all of them do well in the region.
