When you are in the market to change your roof, you need to consider various aspects of roofing materials, such as aesthetics and durability. You may be surprised to find asphalt roofing has many qualities that make it an ideal roofing material for almost any home and climate. 

Aesthetics

Many people only think of asphalt roofs as a bunch of black panels, but the aesthetics of asphalt is more varied. Asphalt shingles come in a wide range of colors, from white to black, and many colors in between, such as blue, gold, and red. This allows you to have an asphalt roof that matches your existing siding or have a roof in a contrasting color to make your home stand out against surrounding homes. In addition to variations in color, asphalt can be made to mimic other materials, such as slate or wood. It is often easy to get the color and texture variation of other roofing materials but with the more economical price associated with asphalt.

Efficiency

Asphalt is one of the more energy-efficient types of roofing because it is available in different tones. Depending on your climate, you might want a light- or dark-colored asphalt roof to address your utility needs. If you live in an area with harsher winters and snow, a dark-colored asphalt roof is a good option. Since the darker color absorbs heat, your roof will stay warmer during the winter, making it easier to heat your home. Additionally, when the roof absorbs heat, it minimizes the amount of frozen precipitation that stays on the roof and begins to weigh it down, increasing the risk of structural damage. Conversely, warmer climates can benefit from a light-colored asphalt roof. Lighter colors reflect heat, keeping your roof cooler. During the warmer months, you will need to use less energy to keep your home cool.

Safety

When considering the safety of your family and home, asphalt might be the better option. If you live in an area prone to wildfires or experience severe thunderstorms in the warmer months, asphalt can make your home safer. Wildfires and lightning strikes are some major fire hazards, mainly in dry climates. In dry environments, there is little moisture to reduce the chance of a lightning strike setting the roof on fire. Additionally, when you live in an area where wildfires are a significant risk, you will need to protect your home from burning debris that might land on your roof or if a nearby home catches fire and the fire spreads to your home. Installing a fire-resistant roof might reduce your homeowner's insurance premiums because of the decreased risk of damage.

Asphalt roofing is far more versatile than many people realize. In addition to fire protection and energy efficiency, there are many colors and textures to add a unique spin to your roof.

Contact a local roofing service to learn more.