The Most Common Type of Roofing Materials in Massachusetts

What Materials are Used for Roofing?

In Massachusetts, weather conditions can swing dramatically from scorching summers to harsh winters. Choosing the right roofing material is crucial for ensuring both durability and longevity. This guide will explore the most common roofing materials - detailing their benefits, drawbacks, and suitability for the Massachusetts climate.

Roofing contractors have the ability to show you roofing material styles and colors right at your door. There are hundreds of options available so that you can balance curb appeal, protection, safety, and cost. From architectural styles to solar panel readiness and environmental impact materials, there are numerous options to choose from when it comes to roofing materials.

Before selecting the roofing material of your choice, it is important to remember that there are several important layers that will be installed before shingles. Keep in mind that ventilation systems are a critical element to roofing. Ventilation ensures that air can flow through the attic space to prevent moisture buildup, which could lead to mold or reduce the lifespan of roofing materials. Ridge vents, soffit vents, and gable vents are commonly used to achieve this balance.

What are the Types of Roofing Materials in MA?

The choice of roofing materials available to Massachusetts homeowners is abundant. Asphalt shingles have traditionally been the most common choice due to their cost-effectiveness and durability. Options like slate, metal, or even wood shakes are becoming more popular for those seeking longevity and a unique aesthetic, though each comes with its own set of maintenance requirements and costs.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt Shingles are the most common choice due to their affordability and variety. They come in three-tab, dimensional, and luxury styles, offering different levels of durability and appearance.

• Pros: Cost-effective, easy to install, available in various colors and styles, good for most climates.
• Cons: Shorter lifespan compared to other materials and can be susceptible to wind and hail damage.

Metal Roofing

Metal Roofing is a great choice for its longevity, with materials like aluminum, steel, copper, and zinc offering up to a century of service. It's lightweight, fire-resistant, and energy-efficient, but it's also more expensive upfront.

• Pros: Extremely durable, can last 40-100+ years, lightweight, fire-resistant, and energy-efficient due to reflective properties.
• Cons: Higher initial cost, can be loud during rain if not properly insulated, installation may require specialized skills.

Slate Roofing

Slate roofs are prized for their natural beauty and durability, lasting from 75 to 200 years. However, their weight and cost make them less common for residential homes.

• Pros: Natural stone material, incredibly durable (75-200 years), low maintenance, enhances home value.
• Cons: Very heavy, requires structural support, expensive, and complex installation.

Cedar Shingles and Shakes

Cedar Shingles and Shakes provide a rustic look but often require more maintenance, especially in humid climates. They can be treated for fire resistance, enhancing their appeal.

• Pros: Natural aesthetic, good insulation properties, can be treated for fire resistance.
• Cons: Not suitable for all climates, especially those with high moisture or fire risk, requires regular maintenance.

Clay and Concrete Tiles

Clay and Concrete Tiles are known for their longevity and fireproof nature and are ideal for hot climates. Their installation can be costly due to the need for additional structural support.

• Pros: Long lifespan (50-100+ years), fireproof, durable in hot climates, aesthetically pleasing.
• Cons: Very heavy, installation can be costly due to structural considerations, and higher initial cost.

EPDM Roofing

EPDM (Rubber) Roofing is popular for flat roofs, offering a low-cost, durable option that's easy to repair. It's commonly used in commercial settings but is often used in residential flat roofs as well.

• Pros: Good for flat roofs, low cost, durable, easy to repair, good for commercial applications.
• Cons: Must be installed by professionals, can be susceptible to damage from heavy traffic or sharp objects.

Synthetic or Composite Shingles

Synthetic or Composite Shingles mimic the look of other materials like wood or slate without the weight or maintenance. They're durable but can be pricey

• Pros: Made to mimic the look of wood, slate, or tile but with less weight and maintenance, durable.
• Cons: More expensive than asphalt, and not as long-lasting as real slate or tile.

Rolled Roofing

Rolled Roofing is the cheapest and quickest to install and is often used on low-slope roofs. However, it has a shorter lifespan and is less visually appealing.

• Pros: Cheapest option, quick to install, suitable for low-slope roofs.
• Cons: Short lifespan (5-8 years), not as aesthetically pleasing, less durable.

What Are the Accesory Roofing Materials?

When it comes to roofing in Massachusetts, understanding the various accessory materials is crucial for ensuring a durable, weather-resistant, and aesthetically pleasing roof. These components complement the primary roofing materials, enhancing both functionality and longevity. Here's an overview of some key accessory roofing materials:

Roof Decking

The foundation of any roof begins with the decking, which is typically made from plywood or oriented strand board (OSB). This layer not only supports the roofing materials but also plays a critical role in the structural integrity of the roof. In Massachusetts, ensuring properly installed decking is an important step for dealing with heavy snowfalls in the winter.

Hip & Ridge Shingles

 These are specially designed shingles used to cover the hips (the external angle formed by the intersection of two sloping roof planes) and ridges (the peak line where two roof surfaces meet at the top) of a roof. They provide a finished look and additional weather protection at these critical points..

Gutters and Downspouts

Gutters and downspouts are integral for directing rainwater away from the house, preventing foundation damage and basement leaks. Materials like aluminum, copper, or vinyl are often used, each offering different levels of durability and aesthetic appeal.

Ridge Vent

A type of vent installed at the peak of a roof to allow hot air and moisture to escape from the attic space, promoting better ventilation. It's often integrated into the ridge shingles for a seamless appearance.

Starter Shingles

These are the first row of shingles installed at the eaves (the lower edge of a roof) or along the rake (the sloped edge of a gable roof). They are typically cut in half lengthwise to provide an extra layer of protection where water runoff is heaviest.

Hip Vent

Similar to ridge vents but designed for the hip areas of the roof. They help in ventilating the roof structure, especially in complex roof designs where air needs to circulate through different slopes.

Drip Edge

A strip of metal (usually aluminum or galvanized steel) installed along the eaves and rakes of a roof. It directs water away from the fascia and into the gutters, preventing water from seeping under the shingles.

Ice and Water Shield

An ice and water shield are a self-adhering, rubberized asphalt membrane that can be installed in vulnerable areas like eaves, recommended to extend 6 feet up in New England, valleys, all penetrations such as chimney and wall flashing, bathroom vents, boot pipes, and on lower pitch roofs. This prevents water from seeping under the shingles due to ice buildup, offering a robust defense against water damage.

Underlayment

The underlayment goes over the roof decking and under the final roofing materials. This layer acts as a secondary barrier against water infiltration to safeguard the decking from potential leaks. Traditional felt paper offers a cost-effective solution but is less durable in comparison. Synthetic underlayment provides superior moisture protection and often come with self-sealing properties, which are ideal for the variable weather we see in Massachusetts. This should be installed after ice water shield. Synthetic underlayment doesn't not come self-sealing like the ice water shield. Master Roof use plastic caps staples and plastic cap nail avoiding common mistakes of many contractors.

Conclusion

In Massachusetts, while asphalt shingles remain a popular choice for their balance of cost and effectiveness, metal roofs are increasingly favored for their longevity and energy efficiency. Homeowners looking for expert advice and installation should consult with professionals like those at Master Roof. We can provide valuable insights and tailored solutions that not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also ensure the roof is well-equipped to handle the state's challenging weather conditions. Whether it's for durability, cost-effectiveness, or aesthetic preference, understanding these roofing materials can help make an informed decision for a home that stands strong against the elements.

If you are looking for professional roofing services in Boston Metrowest or Eastern MA, get in touch with Master Roof or stop by their office where they can show you a variety of roof material types to use in your next roofing project. We used the best roofing materials on the market including GAF and Owens Corning.  Call us today.