The most crucial aspect of any home is arguably the roof—at least for homeowners. It is what protects the residents from harsh weather, falling tree limbs, and many more hazards. Having a weak roof will lead to danger for all the building’s occupants.
For architects, however, other considerations such as design might be the more pertinent factor. As such, there can be a disconnect. Here, we explain the best materials for roofs from an architect’s perspective and what that means for homeowners.
Metal Roofing
In architecture, metal is both a timeless and trendy material. Architectural feats such as the Belvedere Palance in Vienna are famous for the stunning copper roof, and the material also has become quite prevalent in commercial building and residential design.
The two most common metal roof materials are copper and aluminum. Copper roofs are versatile and can last anywhere from 60 to 100 years with very little maintenance. For homeowners and architects, longevity is desirable.
One roofer notes that Columbus OH metal roofing is the most common in this temperate region. Besides lasting a long time, it helps homeowners save on maintenance since they don’t have to worry about fires burning the roof or bugs feeding on it.
Aluminum is also a good option for a roof and is much cheaper than copper. It is also very lightweight and easy to install. This material is also a heat reflector, so architects will often incorporate it when designing sustainable homes. The material will keep a house cooler during the summer and warmer in the winter.
The main disadvantage to aluminum roofing is that it doesn’t last as long as copper. Aluminum only lasts about 50 years if properly maintained. However, the Metal Roofing Alliance assures homeowners and people looking to purchase a house that investing in a metal roof is well worth the money.
Rolled Roofing
Older, historic buildings built in the late nineteenth century often featured rolled roofing. This is a very cheap, common option even today. Rolled material comes in a few different types, but all contain some amount of rubber.
For architects, this may seem like a good option for historic preservation. However, there are actually many disadvantages to using rolled material for homeowners. One disadvantage is that the material is only good for about 5 to 10 years. It means that a homeowner would have to replace it every few years, which can be a costly investment.
Shingles
There are five different kinds of shingles:
Asphalt shingles are cheap to purchase and easy to install. Architects who design prefab homes will usually opt for this type.
Metal shingles are more expensive to purchase, but they can last up to 50 years. Wood and slate shingles can also last up to 50 years but are also much more expensive than asphalt tile. Building designers will usually incorporate these materials if working with clients who have more customizable plans.
Clay Tiles
This kind of roof is very beautiful to look at, but also a pricey option. It is also very durable, lasting up to 100 years.
This material is excellent for places that experience hot weather or are close to the sea. However, this roofing system is very heavy and can break under certain conditions.
Architects will often use this material for specific styles, such as Spanish villas, or specific regions, such as in areas with hurricanes. Clay tiles tend to hold up better than other materials during high winds and rain.
Conclusion
An architect’s vision may not always be the most economical or durable for a homeowner. If you’re a homeowner, make sure you keep the durability and cost in mind when working with an architect to design your future dream home.
Designing a home is often referred to as a very intimate thing, a balance of the aesthetic and the emotional, the timeless and the functional. This Mother’s Day 2025, Dulux Velvet Touch joined hands with K2 India, helmed by Sunita Kohli and Kohelika Kohli, to bring their vision to life. For them, design isn’t just […]
As houses become more efficient and conscious, bathroom storage design is rising to the occasion in terms of function and aesthetic. In 2025, all about sleek looks, intelligent solutions, and eco-friendliness. From floating vanity to modular organizers, these bathroom storage solutions merge functionality with style, ideal for contemporary Indian homes that need order, sophistication, and […]
When it comes to bathrooms, many people prioritize aesthetics, luxury, modernity, and so on. And indeed, the end result is often beautiful, especially when done by highly-trained professionals like Denver Bathroom Pros. While you’re at it though, why not add in one more aspect to focus on? Wellness is a concept often overlooked by homeowners […]
We often wander through our homes on autopilot, barely noticing the surfaces beneath our feet. Yet the humble rug—particularly the increasingly popular washable rugs — can transform our living spaces in ways we rarely pause to appreciate. These fabric canvases not only protect our floors and provide comfort, but they also create invisible boundaries that […]
Curtains for living room spaces do more than cover windows—they define mood, enhance style, and elevate functionality. In India, where design preferences blend tradition with innovation, choosing the right curtains for living room décor becomes a key element in crafting beautiful and personalised interiors. From airy sheers to rich velvets, every curtain style speaks a […]
Lighting in interior design isn’t simply a utility anymore; it makes a statement, strong and bold in the individual’s personality, mood, and style. Lighting has gone beyond the functional in Indian homes or offices. They are now used to incorporate beautiful installations that are unique, sculptural, and custom-made to evoke strong designs in these environments. […]
Timeless architectural features, such as courtyards, are always associated with bringing the naturally public forms to the world’s heart, building the most peaceful, secluded outdoor areas. These outdoor spaces maximize the living experience with their private space feature, which gives one the option for leisurely relaxation, recreation, or gardening. Furthermore, it has also been a […]
Indian homes place equal importance on pooja room door designs as they do on main door designs. With diverse and unique ethnic backgrounds, every family strives to reflect their personalities and identities in their designs. These identities can encompass religious or spiritual interests, local contexts, or other personal elements. This series of blogs, featuring 50 […]
The integration of screening evergreen trees serves as an artful blend of practicality and natural beauty. These screening evergreen trees, with their lush foliage and diverse benefits, play a crucial role in enhancing privacy. It also blocks unwanted views, and contributes to the overall well-being of homeowners. From the majestic Jamun trees to the versatile […]
Gate Design is an important feature of any home. Numerous scopes for experimentation open up when delving into the design possibilities. Materials like wood and black steel are popular options in Indian homes. At the same time, designers also experiment with a combination of materials that suits their aesthetic. Buying mass-produced Sydney automated gates has […]