Read this in The Manila Times digital edition.
SHELTER is considered one of the basic needs of an individual. But to be considered a shelter, it needs to have at least a roof. While many put up roofs to provide protection from the elements, others include aesthetics if they can afford it. If you are planning to build a house or replace your roof with something better, here are five of the common materials used in roofing.
This is perhaps the most common roofing material used in the Philippines. The most popular of them all is aluminum or galvanized iron (yero), which is also known as GI sheets. If there is one advantage metal has over others, it is life expectancy. It can withstand the elements and hold up to wear and tear between 40 and 80 years. Aesthetically speaking, metal roofs have suffered but are increasingly becoming better designed. They can even be shaped to look like other roofing materials. Another advantage they have is they are also low-maintenance, which can increase the appeal to new home-buyers. Construction workers usually use sealant to close gaps to prevent leaks during rainy weather.
In terms of construction, metal roofs require a different set of skills to be installed. As with any other material, it is important to have it installed properly. Before you commit to metal roofing and a roofing company, check that the company has experience in installing metal roofing. Improper installation could lead to problems, such as leaks, when it rains.
Metal is the most popular material used in roofing. It can be shaped into different appearances and is very affordable.
In lieu of metal, there are plastic versions of GI sheets that are also available, usually made of polyurethane, fiberglass, polyester and PVC (polyvinyl chloride). They have the look and appearance of GI sheets. One advantage they have over metal sheets is they are resistant to corrosion though they may get brittle over a long period of time. Transparent or translucent ones serve as a kind of skylight. In some cases, they are used in combination with metal or asphalt roofs by forming a "sandwich" to provide insulation from heat.
Wood is shaped into tile-like pieces called shingles. This material has the edge in aesthetics. In fact, having wood shingles may increase the property value of the home as it gives it more appeal.
The drawback is wood shingles are more expensive and require a bit more maintenance. They do have a better life expectancy of 30 years which, in some cases, may help to offset the cost as a replacement might not be needed as soon, especially if you plan to own the home long term.
Being organic, wood shingles are vulnerable to moss and plant growth and will require periodic cleaning and maintenance.
Furthermore, wooden roofing is not advised to be used in fire-prone or extremely busy areas unless it is treated with fire-resistant coating. More often, wooden roofs are ideal for homes close to the sea or as a separate storage house project and other functions.
Besides metal, other materials are considered in roofing in the Philippines such as wood and asphalt.
When one thinks of asphalt, it is usually used for roads. However, it is also used as a roofing material as well. They come in various types — 3-tab shingles, dimensional shingles and luxury shingles. Each has its unique use despite being made of the same material.
The advantages of asphalt roofing are that they are durable, affordable, fire-resistant (when reinforced with fiberglass) and easy to make small repairs.
As for disadvantage, it has a shorter lifespan (15-30 years) and may be susceptible to damage from extreme temperature and during stormy weather when winds are very strong. In addition, while attractive, it is not sustainable.
With various materials to choose from, here are pointers to help you make the right choices.
Firstly, durability must be the first thing in mind. Select the one that will last longer and can stand up to the elements. This also helps reduce the cost of installation and lessen the inconvenience not only in the construction/reinstallation but also the damages incurred.
Secondly, consider also the possible issues. Heavy roofing materials are impractical because the structure of the house might not be designed to bear excess weight. If that is the case, then there will be a need to restructure the framing and renovate the house, which would mean more expenses, hassle and mess.
Finally, in stating the obvious — the cost. Typically, the higher the cost of the material, the higher is the cost of labor so choose the most affordable roofing materials to get more savings both in the material and installation.