New Year, same blog, new topic! You’ve decided it’s time for a new roof, now it’s time to decide what material you want to use. Choosing from the various roofing materials can be overwhelming. To help narrow down the decision, we’ve compiled the three best roofing materials used in Montana below.
The Best Types of Roofs in Montana
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is an increasingly popular roofing material in Montana that can last for decades. Metal roofing comes in a variety of types, colors, and styles. Some types of metal available—standing seam, corrugated, tuff rib are the most popular— options to fit your home’s aesthetic while staying within your budget. Beyond outlasting a shingle roof in function, a metal roof maintains its visual appeal as it experiences minimal damage, so your roof will look new for many years to come.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Metal Roofing
Benefits Drawbacks
Can last 50 years or longer Higher upfront cost
Can increase resale value of your home Metal roofs with exposed fasteners need regular upkeep
Resistant to fire Lack of qualified roofing contractors
Can withstand extreme weather Noise*
*You will likely hear noise from your metal roof during a storm. Although some people find the sound of rain hitting a metal roof calming, this is something to consider, especially if you’re sensitive to certain noises. An experienced roofer will know how to reduce the noise effectively by installing the proper insulation to minimize sound.
Shingles
Asphalt is the most common type of shingle, but they come in a range of materials. The best roof shingle depends on your home’s style, your roof’s layout, and your area’s weather conditions.
Shingle material has the biggest impact on your roof’s performance, durability, and cost. Asphalt shingle roofs are the most affordable, while clay tile, natural slate, and solar shingles are the bigger investments. Asphalt shingles are some of the most common roofing materials used in Montana, and much of the US.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Asphalt Roofing Shingles
Benefits Drawbacks
Come in a variety of materials, styles, patterns, Shorter lifespan
and colors to fit any budget Susceptible to wind damage
Offers protection against most weather Not as durable as other roof types
elements
Easy to repair and replace
Designer Shingles
Architectural asphalt shingles are the standard in the roofing industry. However, luxury shingles — or designer shingles– are just as heavily marketed and their popularity keeps increasing. Because of this, homeowners keep asking, “What’s the difference? Are they comparable? Is one better than the other?” True to their name, the design sets them apart, luxury asphalt shingles are bigger and thicker than other types of asphalt shingles. This is great for durability but has the potential to make the installation take longer and more difficult.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Designer Roofing Shingles
Benefits Drawbacks
Curb appeal Higher upfront cost of both material and labor
Can increase resale value of your home Potentially longer install time
Generally thicker than architectural shingles Heavier shingle weight
Can withstand harsher weather
The best type of roof is different for everyone. Some roofing options aren’t suitable for every home. We recommend weighing the pros and cons before making your decision. You want your roof to complement your home’s style and withstand the local climate.
Have Questions? We’d Love to Help!
Want to spitball what the best material is for your roof? If you’re in the Flathead Valley, reach out to Fly Roofing with all your roofing questions. Whether it’s a single question or a 30 minute conversation, we’re only a call away.
To get in touch with us, head over to our contact page. Or, call us at 406-203-2482!
We’re looking forward to hearing from you!