Where you live can have a huge impact on what kind of material you need for your roof. Different locations may require different materials to ensure that your home is adequately protected from the elements. Understanding what material works best in various climates and regions will help you and roofing contractors make the right decision when it comes to choosing the right material for your home.

1. Hot Climates

The sunny climate of southern California requires a strong, durable roof that can survive intense heat and direct sunlight year-round. Clay and concrete tiles are popular options here because they're good at reflecting the sun's rays away from the house, helping to keep temperatures down inside during hot summer months.

Hot climates like California often deal with wildfires and other extreme weather events, making it important to choose a material that won't easily catch fire. Clay and concrete have high fire resistance but are heavy, so qualified roofing contractors have to see if your home's existing structure can support the weight before installing.

Slate is an extremely durable material, able to withstand even the harshest of climates. It's fire-resistant and also a popular choice for homes in hot climates due to its ability to stay cool and reflect sunlight away from the house. It's more expensive than other materials, but it will last up to 120 years with proper care.

2. Cold and Windy Climates

In colder climates such as those found in the Midwest and Northeast, metal roofing is often a good option due to its ability to last longer under cold temperatures than other materials like asphalt or wood shakes.

Metal roofing also provides superior protection from snow and ice buildup during winter months thanks to its shiny surface that reflects light away, preventing snow and ice accumulation. It's also relatively lightweight, which helps reduce the stress placed on your home's structure during heavy winter storms.

Residents of windy climates such as those found in the Midwest or along coastal areas must prepare for strong winds that can damage the roof. For these regions, slate tiles are a great option because they have higher resistance to both wind and hail than other materials.

3. Wet Climates

A wet climate such as those found in the Pacific Northwest requires a material that can withstand both heavy rain and snow. Wood is abundant in the Pacific Northwest, making wood shingles and shakes a popular choice. Wood is also lightweight and can be easily installed on steep-sloped roofs because it does not require as much support from framing underneath. The downside is that wood can be more expensive than asphalt shingles and may need to be replaced more frequently due to water damage.

Asphalt and metal are great protection from the rain. Asphalt tiles have moisture protection as long as you install them properly. With metal, there are barely any seams for wetness to seep through, but roofing contractors may need to ensure the material is corrosion-resistant.

Living in a wet climate provides a great opportunity for having a green roof. Green roofs feature layers of vegetation that absorb moisture and offer additional insulation, helping to keep the home cool in summer and warm in winter.

4. Dry Climates

Residents of dry climates like those in the Southwest should look for materials that are designed to resist cracking, splitting, or warping due to extreme heat. Asphalt shingles are a great choice in these areas as they can handle higher temperatures and provide good protection from the sun's rays.

Asphalt shingles are also relatively inexpensive compared to other roofing materials and come in an array of colors, so you can customize your home's look. According to Roofers Guild, up to 90% of asphalt roofs utilize fiberglass shingles, making them one of the most common types of residential roofing material.

When it comes to choosing the right material for your roof, you must consider the climate of your area and what type of protection the climate requires. Hot climates need a material that can reflect sunlight and heat away from the home while cold climates need something that won't be damaged by snow or ice buildup. Windy climates require materials with excellent wind resistance like slate tiles. Understanding what each region needs will help you make an informed decision about which material is best for your particular location. Give Rembrandt Roofing & Restoration a call today to get started.