When it comes to choosing a roofing system for the roof of your apartment or multi-family home, there is more to take into consideration than just aesthetics. There are lots of different roofing options out there, but before deciding on one it is important to look at both the slope of your roof and your geographical location, as well as your budget. With so many different roofing product options available to choose from, it is important to do your research so you can make an informed decision that will be the best option for your project.
We’ve broken down some of the most popular roofing system options out there to give you the information you will need to help decide on which option is best for you.
A Popular Roofing System: Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular roofing system options available because they are easy to install and require minimum maintenance. They are also more tear-resistant and often are better at withstanding changes in temperature which makes them popular in locations that experience large fluctuations in temperature. Asphalt shingles consist of a cellular fibre substrate, often recycled paper, that is combined with asphalt and compressed under high pressure. As a result, these shingles have a long lifespan, ranging from 20 to 40 years based on the model.
Prepainted Steel
Prepainted steel roofing is another popular roofing cover material. The coating helps to protect the metal against corrosion over time which results in a lifespan of approximately 50 years. Prepainted steel roofing is lightweight, requires almost no maintenance, and is available in many different colours. The fact that it is available in large sheets and tiles makes it easy to install, and it will not crack, split, or break. Metal roofs like prepainted steel are popular for those wanting to give their townhouse or multi-family home a more rustic look, as they are often reminiscent of older farmhouses.
Cedar Shakes
Cedar shakes used to be extremely popular but fell out of use when products such as asphalt shingles came into the market. They have some benefits, like that they are rot-proof and naturally insect resistant. However, they have been proven to be a dangerous fire hazard and many communities have actually banned them for this reason.
SBS Membrane
If you are looking for a roofing system for a flat roof, an SBS membrane might be the way to go. SBS systems (also known as styrene-butadiene-styrene) refer to the type of polymers that are added to the asphalt. The system is extremely popular for commercial use due to its longevity, water resistance, and simple installation. SBS systems are typically available in black or grey options.
With so many different roofing systems available, it is important to remember to do your research to determine which material is going to be the best choice for your project. Your roof is one of the most important parts when building or improving a multi-family home or apartment complex, so choosing a system that is going to be long-lasting and durable will help you get as much life as possible out of your roof.