Roofing Materials You Should Avoid Using Home Improvement by Savannah Coulsen - May 7, 2014May 7, 2014 What kind of roofing materials you should invest in? When most homeowners reach out to a company to have a roof installed they want one that is not too expensive, does not require a lot of maintenance, and will last for a very long time. Being aware of what roofing materials do not fulfill those needs is the easiest way to decide what kind of roofing material you should have installed. Composite Shingles Composite shingles have a clean look and they are affordable; but they are a poor choice if you live in an area that is prone to high winds as they can easily be blown off. They are also very easily damaged when exposed to high temperatures for long periods of time. Image Credit: neilsagebiel.com Wood Shakes Wood shakes provide a home with a clean and natural look, but they require a lot of upkeep. Constant maintenance and repair is needed in order for this roofing material to continue to protect your home. Wood shakes are prone to rotting and mold. Insects can also be a huge problem. Clay Tiles Clay tiles are easy on the eyes and last a long time, but they are extremely fragile. Tasks such as cleaning the gutters or the fireplace are made difficult because walking on these tiles will cause them to shatter. Installing them is also a complicated task because of how fragile they are. Slate Roofing Slate roofing is expensive, but it offers a very natural look. The problem with slate roofing is how much it weighs. It is not uncommon for additional support to need to be added to the home in order for slate roofing to be a realistic option. It is also very easy to break slate roofing if you do not have experience walking on it. Concrete Tiles Concrete tiles are a great deal more expensive than alternative roofing options. Problems associated with concrete tiles include curling, shattering, and color alteration. According to A. Clark Roofing, one of the roofing companies in Edmonton, the initial expense of installing concrete tiles and the constant need for repairs makes this roofing material an option that most homeowners would rather not have to deal with. When consulting with roofing companies it is important to address what you want your new roof to accomplish and what you would like to avoid. If you are more interested in an affordable and long lasting roof than one that is visually appealing, make the roofer you have hired aware of what you want.