Guide: The 4 Main Types of Roofing on the West Coast

Is it time to choose a roof for your home? Whether you’re building a brand new home or replacing an old roof, selecting the best type of roof for your house and climate is a big decision, and you’ll want to have all the information you need to make the right choice.

Having the right kind of roof for your climate and geographical conditions is key to ensuring adequate protection for your home. Choosing the right roof for your particular area also means that roof will require less maintenance and last longer before you need to repair or replace it.

Roofing experts can give you great advice when it comes to picking a style of roof that suits your home, your neighborhood, and the part of the country you live in. The final choice still comes down to you, so it’s smart to familiarize yourself with the different roofing types you can choose from.

1. Asphalt Fiberglass Shingles

Asphalt fibreglass shingles are among the simplest and most cost-effective choices for roofing, and we are experts at installing them. Many homeowners are choosing to upgrade their worn-out cedar roofs to laminate shingles for an affordable way to add value to their home.  Asphalt Shingles are available in various designs and colours, and typically last 25 to 30 years.

2. Torch-on Roofing

Best used for roofs that are flat or gently sloped, torch-on roofs (also known as torch-down roofs) are durable and can be installed fairly quickly. Made from asphalt-saturated, polyester-reinforced fiberglass rolls, torch-on roofs are applied with an open flame to weld the material together and bond it to the layers underneath. They provide excellent protection from harsh weather, insects, and rot.

Some of the other advantages to torch-on roofing include low maintenance costs and resistance to ultraviolet rays. Properly installed, a torch-on roof will provide a waterproof surface that is completely sealed off and can be expected to last up to twenty-five years.

3. Metal Roofing

Roofs made out of metal tend to be more durable and long-lasting than roofs made of wood or asphalt, which can make them a more cost-effective choice in the long run.

Metal roofing is resistant to fire, pests, mildew, and rot. A metal roof will easily shed rain and snow, making it an ideal choice for homes in areas that get a lot of cold and wet weather. Because of their durability and aesthetic appeal, a metal roof may even add resale value to your home. In addition, metal roofs can offer great long-term value and is an environmentally friendly choice. These materials can often be recycled at the end of the roof’s lifespan, reducing the impact on the environment. Metal roofing can last upwards of 40+ years.

4. Cedar Shake Roofing

Cedar shake roofing can give your home a natural, organic appearance that fits well in a wide variety of architectural styles. Cedar shakes are a natural product typically from second-growth forests. When properly maintained, you can expect a cedar shake roof to last approximately 30 years.

Making the Right Choice

When choosing a new roof, you’ve got to consider what types of climate you live in. In the west coast, you can expect to have a mild and wet climate which is likely to promote algae and moss growth. You also need to think about how important the aesthetics of your roof are to you, and how much effort you’re willing to put into maintaining it.

A well-chosen roof can protect your home for decades, and Canuck Roofing can help you get the best quality roofing for your needs. If you’ve made your selection, contact us today for a roofing quote!