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10 Best Roofing Options for the Summer in Virginia and Maryland

Aug 1, 2013 2:52:00 PM

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The roof of a home is often designed as an afterthought, with the construction budget allocated for other areas of home design. However, more homeowners who are placing appropriate priority on roofing design are giving plenty of forethought into the materials and construction of their new roofs and roof replacements, and for very good reasons. 

A home's roof significantly impacts home-exterior aesthetics, architecture and the long-term value of the entire home. The roof's design and style also affect energy efficiency, home comfort and the well being of other home systems. Moreover, a durable roof is necessary in Northern Virginia and Southern Maryland to protect occupants, structure and possessions against inclement weather. 

If you're undertaking new construction or pondering a roofing replacement or repair, consider these 10 popular roofing options for beauty, durability, investment and efficiency, and you won't have any regretful afterthoughts of why you didn't use discerning forethought. 

Cedar Roofing North Virginia1. Cedar Shake & Shingle 

Cedar shake and shingle are wonderful choices for the Northern Virginia and Southern Maryland landscape, offering a warm and distinctive character which improves with age. Cedar shake and shingle systems are “cool” and resistant to insects. 

Image Credit: origamidon

 

Asphalt Shingle Roofing Southern maryland2. Asphalt 

Asphalt shingle roofing is the most popular roofing system across the country, primarily due to lower installation costs compared to other roofing options. However, recent asphalt roofing technology has garnered praise for increased life span and design and style. 

Image Credit: BlueRidgeKitties

 

Steel Metal Roofing North Virginia3. Metal 

Metal roofs deserve attention and praise all the way around for a wide selection of designs and styles, energy-efficient “cool” roofing option and for long life span and durability (resistant to hurricane-force winds). Metal roofs are readily manufactured from up to 95% recycled materials and are eco- and pocketbook-friendly, reducing cooling and heating expenses by as much as 40%. 

Image Credit: SteelMaster Buildings

genuine slate roofing north virginia4. Genuine Slate 

Genuine slate roofing is unsurpassed for beauty, refinement and longevity. Genuine slate is naturally energy efficient and stands up to any weather. While genuine slate roofing is among the most expensive to install, it also increases a home's value and long-term roofing investment, lasting perhaps 100 years and more. 

Image Credit: jmgphoto

 

Synthetic Slate Roof North Virginia5. Synthetic Slate 

Synthetic slate roofing is a popular option for many homeowners who desire the look of genuine slate, but don't want the heavy expense. Synthetic slate is manufactured from recycled plastics and rubber, and remain recyclable after installation. 

Image Credit: origamidon

Tiled Roof Southern Maryland

6. Tile 

Even though tile roofing is more closely associated with homes in Florida and the western states, tile roofing systems are excellent options for Northern Virginia homeowners seeking “cool” roofing options. Tile roofing is available in a variety of colors, and may be treated to resist water and deliver greater durability. 

Image Credit: schecktrek

Flat Roof North Virginia7. Flat 

Flat roofs make excellent green roofing systems. Flat roofs may be coated with UV-reflective products to reflect UV rays and resist heat gain, and they are readily popular for residential applications, even though they are more widely used in commercial applications. 

Image Credit: sean dreilinger

cement roofing8. Cement 

Cement shake and shingle roofing systems are extremely durable and offer homeowners a long life span. Cement roofs are heavy, much like genuine slate, but they are priced within reach of a broader market. 

Image Credit: Rev. Xanatos

 

Living Roof North Virginia Roofing9. Living Roof 

If you're considering a flat roof, or already have a flat roof, you must consider a living roofing system for your home. No longer confined to urban areas, living roofs are welcome and admired any place where there is the desire for serenity and natural creativity. 

Image Credit: jacksonoffice2003

 

Roof Repair North Virginia Southern maryland10. Roof Repairs 

If you're considering a roofing replacement because of recent damage or roof deterioration, call your roofing contractor to perform a thorough roofing inspection first. Sometimes roofing damage or deterioration isn't as bad as first thought, and may be less costly than an entire roof replacement.

Image Credit: epospisil