If you're thinking about building a property, it's important to make sure that you choose the right material to construct your new roof with. Here is a quick guide to a few of the most popular types of roofing.  

Asphalt shingles

Asphalt shingles are used on many properties nowadays; this is due largely to their affordability. Made up of asphalt particles and a supportive backing structure of either cellulose or fibreglass, these shingles are ideal for those who want a relatively hardy, budget-friendly roofing material.

However, if you plan to live in your current property for more than a few years, it's important to realise that choosing asphalt shingles may be a false economy, as you will almost certainly need to have your roof replaced within a decade or so. This is because the shingles deteriorate when exposed to UV rays for long periods of time and have a tendency to loosen and fall off during spells of heavy rain and strong winds.

Metal roofing

Metal roofing is usually significantly more expensive than asphalt. However, it should be viewed as an investment, as this material will typically survive for a few decades before it begins to deteriorate. Because of metal's reflective properties, it's a particularly good choice for those living in warmer climates, as any heat produced by the sun will simply bounce off this material rather than being absorbed by it and entering the rest of the property.  

There are a number of different types of metal roofs, each with their own specific advantages. Zinc roofing, for example, is extremely resistant to corrosion and as such, is perfect for those with properties in very wet climates.  

Copper is one of the most visually-striking forms of metal roofing, with a beautiful reddish-brown sheen that eventually oxidises to a vibrant blue. It's also exceptionally durable and requires very little upkeep. Additionally, because it is a highly malleable substance, it's great for those who need to build an irregularly shaped roof.

Out of all metal roofing materials, steel is one of the most affordable and hard-wearing. It can withstand decades of exposure to rain, wind, humidity and heat without corroding. Additionally, this particular metal, which was once only available in its original silvery-grey hue, can now be purchased in a huge variety of shades; steel Colorbond roofing, for example, comes in over 20 different tones. Steel is also recyclable, making is an excellent option for the eco-conscious homeowner.