The Northeastern region of the United States is home to not only beautiful, historic houses, but also to weather that can range from snowy and freezing to hot and humid. Consequently, homeowners should look for roofs that can easily fit with the architecture of their homes and withstand a lot of moisture and wide-ranging temperatures.
Northeast Roofing: Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular materials for Northeast roofing. Asphalt shingles are very insulating, and they can support the large amounts of snow that may build up on your roof. Asphalt shingles are fairly light, flexible, and durable. This Northeast roofing material is one of the least expensive roofing options.
Additionally, asphalt shingles can fit with many different kinds of architectural styles. They are available in a variety of colors and styles, and can resemble either slate or wood shakes.
Asphalt shingles have a shorter lifespan than other northeast roofing materials, lasting between 20 and 25 years.
Northeast roofing has to contend with a variety of weather patterns, from hot, humid summers to cold, snowy winters. | © CC BY-SA 2.0 flickr.com / Martyn Smith
Northeast Roofing: Western Red Cedar
Western red cedar shakes or shingles are also common throughout the Northeast. Wood shingles are fairly smooth, cut to a uniform thickness, and will vary in width. Wood shakes are thicker and rougher. Either wood shakes or wood shingles make a classic Northeast roofing material and will give your home an elegantly rustic look. This Northeast roofing material goes well with bungalow, Cape Cod, cottage, and Tudor-style homes.
Cedar shakes or shingles are also very durable and will stand up well to strong winds, hurricanes, heavy rains, hail, and snowstorms. Because they are resistant to many different types of weather, this material does well in the wide-ranging weather patterns of the Northeast. Cedar is also naturally energy efficient and it can provide your home with twice the insulation as asphalt shingles.
Because wood is susceptible to rot, mold, and mildew, be sure to choose cedar roofing that is pretreated in order to preserve your investment.
Additionally, this type of Northeast roofing material is more expensive and requires specialized installation. It's important to consult with a roofing expert to make sure that this investment is right for your home.
Northeast Roofing: Slate
Slate has been a traditional Northeast roofing material for many years. Slate is beautiful, long-lasting, fire-resistant, and easily sheds ice and snow. Slate roofs can last for generations––50 to even 100 years.
The downsides to slate include the fact that it is both heavy and expensive. Still, slate can be a beautiful and unique choice for Northeast roofing. This material works well with Colonial, French, and European style homes. If you are interested in slate for your Northeast roofing project, be sure to check with a professional to make sure that your home can support its weight.
All roofing projects should be completed with a roofing professional. For more help choosing and installing the right Northeast roofing material for your home, check out HomeAdvancement's database of professionals in your area.
