The Right Roof for All Seasons

The Midwest is home to all four seasons. Our region is unique in that in just one year we can experience extreme heat and cold, days of rain, weeks of snow and ice and are susceptible to hail and high winds. Homeowners often cite weather as the cause of needing to replace or repair a roof. While the weather month to month is uncertain, you want to be sure the roof you choose will be reliable for the next 20 to 25 years. As you will see, not all roofing materials perform the same under these conditions. Here is what you need to know.

Asphalt Shingles

These are the roofs you are most likely to find on your roof and all of your neighbors. Asphalt shingle roofs are the most common for a few reasons. First, they are created to provide protection under most weather conditions. Asphalt shingles are manufactured to be moisture-resistant, UV-reflective thanks to its specialized coating and designed to last 15 to20 years, or longer.

Additionally, this roofing system is the most affordable roofing choice and it offers a variety of colors and styles. While this system is both aesthetically pleasing and can fit most budgets, they also have the advantage of easy installation. Most homes can be roofed with shingles in only a day or two.

Asphalt shingles are designed to withstand the damage brought by Midwestern storms and have the flexibility to replace only a few shingles at a time, not the entire roof. Enterprise Roofing installs and repairs hundreds of roofs every year with this mainstay of residential roof systems.

For a quick calculation of a shingle roof replacement for your home, use our roofing cost calculator.

Metal Roofs

Metal roofs have become more and more popular in recent years as a competitive alternative to asphalt shingles. Especially in the Midwest, metal roofs have been popping up on suburban and rural homes. Metal roofs, like asphalt shingles, offer great protection in hot and cold seasons.

Metal roofs also benefit from a longer lifespan. That means the increased upfront cost is often offset by their longevity. In addition to the increased cost at install, metal roofs can be more costly to repair and maintain. Homeowners are encouraged to look at lifetime costs combined with energy savings when determining their purchasing decision.

Metal roofs are inherently durable in the midst of extreme temperatures. However, some metal roof systems are prone to damage and dents caused by hail. Look for a higher-grade material for increased durability in light of hail, falling branches and debris carried by high winds.

One last item when considering metal roofs: the look of metal roofs is not for everyone’s taste. A more traditional roofing system, like asphalt shingles, may be best if you are considering selling your home in the near future. However, Enterprise is a certified installer of Certaineed Metal Roof Systems, which features a wide variety of styles, designs and colors of metal roofs.

Slate Tile

Slate roof tiles have their own advantages. Since it is a natural stone product, it has a unique appearance. Most importantly, when installed properly, slate roof times have the longest lifespan of roofing materials. Slate roof tiles perform well in extreme temperatures and can survive harsh effects such as wind, storms, and hail

If you’re on a tight budget, it’s important to note that slate tile roofing is the most expensive option of these three. While the longevity of this roof is the longest of the three, as much as 100-year lifespan, oftentimes the cost is prohibitive. New composite shingles that have the look of slate will become more popular in the years to come.

What’s the Best Choice?

Midwestern homes need a roof that is durable, long-lasting, in budget and appealing to the eye. Asphalt roofs check most all of those requirements and are the most often installed. Asphalt roofs can be counted on for safety and a lifespan of 15 to20 years.

The Enterprise Roofing Way

Are you planning a major roof repair or replacement in the coming months? Enterprise Roofing is the Dayton area’s most trusted and reliable partner for residential roofing renovations and repairs. No matter the choice – from asphalt to metal roofs – you can find examples of recent projects here. If you are ready for a quote, request one online or give us a call at  937-298-8664.