Whether you live on the West Coast, the East Coast, or on one of the U.S.'s other shorelines, it's important to find coastal roofing materials that can withstand moisture, salt, sunshine, and occasionally stormy weather. If you live in coastal areas prone to heavy storms like hurricanes, look for heavy, durable roofing like slate or galvanized steel.
Read on for more information about coastal roofing materials.
Coastal Roofing: Metal Roofs
Galvanized steel is relatively inexpensive and can last over sixty years, if installed properly. This coastal roofing material is made of alloyed steel with a zinc coating, which will protect your roof from rust, strong winds, and rain. The zinc coating needs to be reapplied every 20 years or so.
As with most metal roofs, galvanized steel roofs can be installed in standing seam panels or v-crimp panels. A roof with standing seam panels usually costs around 20% more than a roof with v-crimp panels. Both styles of panels are extremely watertight and will keep your home snug when properly installed.
Additionally, because metal roofs reflect the sun, this coastal roofing material can lower the cost of cooling your home by up to 30%.
Coastal Roofing: Western Red Cedar
This coastal roofing material is a common choice for homes on the New England coastline. Western red cedar shakes are beautiful and elegantly rustic. They are also durable and impact-resistant, which means that they can withstand debris from stormy weather.
Wood products are, however, more susceptible to rot and mold, so be sure to install pretreated shingles on your home.
Coastal Roofing: Clay Tiles
With their Mediterranean look and feel, clay tiles are popular for homes in Florida or Southern California. They are both fire and water-resistant, and will stand up well to salty, moist air.
Clay tiles tend to be expensive, and not all homes are structurally built to support the weight of this heavy coastal roofing material. Be sure to consult with your roofing professional before choosing this material for your home.
Coastal roofing should be prepared for plenty of moisture and sea-breezes. | © CC BY 2.0 fickr.com / Jon Worth
Coastal Roofing: Slate
Slate roofing will give your home a unique, beautiful look. This coastal roofing material has a long lifespan and is fireproof and low-maintenance. Slate roofs, however, can be expensive and require specialized installation from an experienced professional.
Coastal Roofing: Copper
Unlike other metals, copper roofs will form a green outer layer called a patina when exposed to air and moisture. This patina protects the material from corrosion. Copper is also heavy and can stand up to strong winds during coastal storms.
While copper is expensive, it's also one of the most durable and long-lasting roofing materials.
Coastal Roofing: Aluminum
Aluminum roofs have grown in popularity recently, due to their resistance to corrosion and their energy efficiency. Aluminum reflects light, emits heat, and can save you some money on heating and cooling costs for your home.
Aluminum roofing is also lightweight and sturdy. Though not as durable as a galvanized steel roof, an aluminum roof should last your home about forty years or more. Consequently, aluminum roofing is also less expensive than steel roofs.
Whichever coastal roofing material you choose, all roofing projects should be completed with the help of a roofing professional. For more help choosing and installing the right coastal roofing for your home, check out HomeAdvancement's database of local roofing experts.
