The roof is one of, if not the most, important parts of our home. Many of the waterproofing system services in Singapore focus on making sure your roof is safe from the elements. It is for a good reason as our roof is vulnerable to the elements like the sun, wind, and rain.
A part of making sure that your roof is proofed from any damage is knowing the kind of roofing tiles you have. Some homeowners are not aware of the materials used for their roof. When you’re planning to do renovations for that part of your home, having some knowledge about the different types of roofing tiles can help you find one that suits your construction goals. Even if you don’t have plans of changing them yet, knowing more about your roof can help in a better waterproofing system and roof maintenance.
To know more, here are some of the different types of roofing tiles that you can opt for in your own home.
Asphalt Tile Roofs
Most homes are covered with asphalt tiles as they are usually affordable and are offered in various options that look good in any style of home. Old-school organic asphalt shingles have paper incorporated through the asphalt. It makes the tiles heavier and more stable against strong winds. If you live in a place with moderate climate, this type of roof tile can last a long time.
Furthermore, DIY asphalt roof installation can be done if you have the right skills, experience, and equipment. Asphalt tiles can also be easily repaired.
However, many organic asphalt roof tiles have been phased out or discontinued. The material can easily crack with rapid temperature changes. It also tends to dry out and be less waterproof, making it more prone to absorbing excess moisture and mould formation. As a result, using asphalt roof tiles can be more costly in the long run as they need to be replaced more frequently.
More modern homeowners are choosing more energy-efficient and durable materials for their roof.
Wood Tile Roofs
Aesthetically, wood tiles can add natural beauty to your roof with their rustic but neat look. It is commonly seen in a wide range of architectural styles like Tudor, Victorian, Cape Cod, bungalow and cabin/cottage.
Aside from its beauty, this type of roof tiles also have benefits for the home. Wood like cedar and redwood contain natural oils that serve as a resistance to moisture and insects. Wood tiles can also last five to 10 years longer than asphalt tiles when adequately maintained. It has twice the insulation value of asphalt materials. Furthermore, it is eco-friendly. With most made from trees aged or toppled from a storm, wood tiles can be recycled when replaced.
Treated woods can have a Class A fire rating, making your roof less vulnerable in cases of fire risks. However, non-treated wood roof tiles usually have a Class C fire rating, so it is generally prohibited in high-risk areas for fire incidents.
Experienced people can do DIY installations as faults in construction can lead to quick deterioration and a less effective waterproofing system. Similarly, wood roof tiles are high maintenance and need to be cleaned consistently to prevent the growth of moulds.
Metal Tile Roofs
Metal tile roofs may sound like a contemporary idea, but it has been used as a material for a long time. Many old houses that use metal roofs for their home tend to still be strong. Metal has also found a resurgence as many homeowners are looking for durable and eco-friendly roofing options.
Metal reflects solar radiant heat, making your home cooler compared to materials like asphalt. It also sheds rain and other elements better than other materials. Moreover, metal roofing has a Class A fire rating, making it suitable in cases of fire risks.
Metal tiles come in a wide range of styles and colours and can be installed quickly. Furthermore, despite being lightweight, metal has a strong resistance to impact, lengthening your roof’s lifespan.
With that said, the cost of metal roofing tends to be higher. Also, replacing dented metal roof tiles can be costlier than replacing roofs made from other materials. Metal roofs are also not enough for a waterproof result. Metal roofs over open farming can be noisier when rain hits, so you need to spend another layer of wood sheathing. The cost can be worth it when thinking about durability and longevity.
Concrete and Clay Tile Roofs
Concrete and clay tile roofs are a modernized version of more classic roofing materials. It aims to be a more robust material that still gives the aesthetic you want. Traditional clay tiles are known for their strength and durability. At the same time, concrete tiles are formed with a tough but lightweight blend, making them easy to work with. The finished tiles are glazed with a waterproofing coating.
Concrete and clay tiles can offer up to more than 50 years of durability when appropriately maintained. It’s fire and insect resistant and helps reduce heat penetration for hotter climates. Concrete tiles are also recyclable once it is replaced.
In addition, tiles are produced in a good range of colours, styles, and textures. That’s why it can work in various home styles, including Spanish/Mission, European, Mediterranean, and other contemporary homes.
When opting for this material, the cost of concrete and clay tiles tend to cost higher than asphalt, metal, and wood. It is also heavier than other material, which may require extra framing when installed. However, concrete and clay tiles should be handled cautiously during installation as they can break when walked on.
Those are some of the common types of roofing tiles you can opt for. Each of them has its advantages and disadvantages depending on your house construction goals.
Regardless of which type you choose to create your roofing with, the quality of the installation should be given equal or even more priority. As mentioned, you can install some types of roofing tiles by yourself if you’re skilled and experienced. To avoid any extra cost for failed installations, it is best to have professional help reconstructing your roof and creating a solid waterproof system.
M3M: Professional Waterproofing Company
M3M Multiservices Pte Ltd is one of the leading waterproofing contractors in Singapore. For 9 years, the company has built a strong clientele through their excellent waterproofing services, using advanced and innovative technologies. M3M also offers an on-site analysis to figure out the solutions that will best suit the needs of your property.
M3M offers a full range of waterproofing procedures such as waterproofing for RC flat roofs, pitched roofs, fixed roof awnings, open balconies, wet areas (i.e. kitchens and bathrooms), as well as walls and basements.
Aside from waterproofing, the company also offers other services such as painting and coating, minor works in construction, and other general contract work, to ensure that ceiling leak will not be a problem for a long time. M3M is a reliable waterproofing company that delivers high-quality service every time.