Best Types of Roof Materials for Cincinnati, Ohio
Investing in a roof replacement is a huge decision for many homeowners. You want to ensure your roof looks good, lasts years and protects your home effectively.
Roofing material plays a crucial role in roofing life span and resilience. Different materials have their own costs, strengths, weaknesses and looks. If you’re wondering what types of roof materials you should consider in Cincinnati, you can use our guide to help you understand your roof options.
4 Roof Materials to Consider
Finding the right roof for your home is essential. If it’s time to replace your roof, you must ensure your investment will withstand stress and weathering for years. Getting the roof you want depends on materials, location, budget and style — in Cincinnati, the best type of roof is one that can easily withstand chilly, snowy winters and warm, humid summers, along with the occasional rain storm.
Let’s explore the strengths and weaknesses of common roof types to help you pick the right option for your home.
Asphalt Shingles
Thanks to their affordability and versatility, asphalt shingles are an extremely popular roofing material. These shingles are fiberglass or organic mats coated with asphalt and mineral granules. They come in various styles and colors, allowing them to work well with many architectural styles.
In Cincinnati’s climate, asphalt shingles have several advantages to boost your roof quality. They can withstand the city’s cold winters and humid summers, making them a reliable choice. Given the area’s weather fluctuations, their durability and moisture resistance are crucial. Additionally, asphalt shingles are readily available and cost-effective, so they’re practical for homeowners on a budget.
Asphalt shingle styles range from traditional three-tab shingles to architectural or designer shingles, allowing you to find the perfect look for your home while ensuring protection against the elements. With different weights, quality and warranties, you have plenty of options to consider.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing has also become popular due to its many benefits. This roofing material, made from steel, aluminum or copper, offers homeowners exceptional durability and weather resistance. It can withstand heavy snowfall, rain and extreme temperature fluctuations.
One of metal roofing’s main advantages is its efficiency. Metal roofs can reflect sunlight, reducing heat absorption and keeping homes cooler during the scorching summers. This energy-saving feature can lead to lower cooling costs over time. Metal roofing also typically lasts longer than asphalt shingles, with 40 to 80 years of life expectancy.
Common metal roof types include standing seam, corrugated panels and metal shingles or tiles. Each type has its own unique visual appeal and installation method. With several style options and excellent durability, you can enjoy a modern, strong roof for years.
Slate Roofing
Slate roofing can also be a good choice for your Cincinnati home. Slate shingles come from natural stone, giving your home and elevated elegance. Additionally, slate roofing remains durable in harsh weather conditions. It’s prized for its longevity — with a 60 to 150-year life span, you’ll enjoy your roof for an extremely long time. Slate offers a remarkable resistance to Cincinnati’s climate, where heavy snow and ice can take a toll on roofing materials.
Slate also provides excellent insulation properties, making it a smart choice for Ohio homeowners. Improved insulation helps keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. With less temperature loss, you’ll reduce energy consumption and costs year-round.
It’s important to note that slate roofing comes with a higher upfront cost than other roofing materials. This premium price reflects its high quality and longevity. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, you might be better off with a different roof material. While it may require a substantial initial investment, the long-term benefits and minimal maintenance costs often make slate a solid investment for homeowners who plan to stay in their homes for many years.
Clay or Concrete Tiles
Clay or concrete tiles offer Cincinnati residents a charming roofing option. These tiles have excellent weather resistance and durability. They’re manufactured to withstand freeze-thaw cycles and are moisture-resistant, so they’ll resist damage caused by heavy rains and snow. Superior weather resistance gives them a longer life span for your roof.
Getting clay or concrete tiles provides a wide range of options for your roof. You can choose from various colors, shapes and styles to achieve a unique and attractive look for your home. These tiles can mimic the appearance of natural materials like wood or slate while offering superior durability.
Color Options for Roof Materials
Choosing the right roof material means you also need to pick the right roof color. Your roof color affects your home’s look, energy efficiency and curb appeal. You want to pick the right color to maximize your home’s design and efficiency. Here are some color options to help you select your new roof color:
- Cool colors: Cincinnati experiences hot and humid summers. Opting for lighter-colored roofing materials, like light grey, beige or pale blues, can help reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption. This reflection leads to lower cooling costs during the summer, making your home more energy efficient.
- Warm colors: If you want to maximize heat absorption during the winter, darker colors like brown, dark gray or deep red can help your roof absorb more heat and keep your home warmer. Additionally, warmer tones will fit well with an already warm home aesthetic.
- Neutral tones: Neutral colors like taupe, tan or light brown can provide your home with a timeless appearance. These colors complement a wide range of styles and color schemes, making them a safe choice for many homeowners.
- Earth tones: Cincinnati’s natural surroundings, including the Ohio River and nearby wooded areas, may inspire you to choose earthy tones like greens and browns. These colors can blend harmoniously with the local landscape and give your home a more organic feel.
- Contrasting colors: Contrasting colors can give your home a striking, modern look. Choose a dark roof to create a visually appealing contrast if your home is mainly light-colored.
Consider your home’s architectural style and surroundings when selecting a roof color. Certain styles, like Mediterranean or Spanish Revival, often benefit from terracotta or clay-colored roofing. Colonial or Cape Cod homes better suit traditional shingles in more neutral colors. Look at your neighborhood for inspiration — you want to stand out slightly while fitting in with the overall theme.
Additionally, check if there are any local regulations or homeowners association guidelines that dictate roof color choices in your area. When replacing your roof, you may have to choose from a pre-approved color list or palette.
Use Expert Roof Installers in Cincinnati
When it comes to investing in quality roofing surfaces, look no further than Coldstream Exteriors. Our commitment to customer service has earned us an A+ Better Business Bureau ranking. With consistent communication on no payment required until project completion, we work to ensure your peace of mind every step of the way. We prioritize quality materials, giving you a roof that can withstand Cincinnati’s diverse weather conditions with resilience and style.
If you’re looking for industry-leading warranties, style and craftsmanship, contact us today.