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.
This edition, TAD Architecture Magazine celebrates the powerful women of India. “Breaking the Boundaries”—a phrase often used to celebrate women’s achievements in their respective fields. But were there ever boundaries to break? The answer is Yes. The most commonly spoken one remains gender inequality—an issue addressed year after year, yet still far from being fully […]
In Indian bedrooms, cupboards are one of the most important pieces of furniture besides the bed. Cupboard design for small bedroom can be a daunting task. In cupboards, clothes and all the daily required items are stocked. But the question is, how to fit a cupboard in the small bedroom? What design measures are to […]
Furnishing your space in the urban environment poses its own set of challenges. As apartments shrink and the demand for versatility increases, selecting the appropriate sofa will always be a significant choice that affects both comfort and function. Young professionals especially struggle to find furniture that is appropriate for their small living spaces while still […]
The living room in your home is not just a space—it’s a reflection of your style, comfort, and personality. Whether you wish to have a modern makeover, a cozy retreat, or a bold statement, a change in interiors can transform the living room. From color palette and furniture layout to lighting and architectural features, this […]
Loops by LJ is an Indian brand specializing in contemporary, handcrafted rugs and textile art. The brand, founded by Latika Jagwani, aims to create unconventional statement pieces that redefine home decor, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern design. Every piece tells a story, making it more than just decor, it’s a conversation starter. Each rug is […]
The kitchen pantry design is just as important as the main kitchen design, ensuring that every daily essential item is easily accessible and visible. Given the abundance of diversity in Indian cuisine and our culture of storing a precisely designed pantry becomes essential. But when not provided a designated space it gets challenging to accumulate […]
Contemporary interior decor is more than just a trend, wherein it’s a way of creating spaces that feel fresh, stylish, and effortlessly functional. Clean lines, open layouts, and a balance between simplicity and warmth define this modern aesthetic. Unlike rigid minimalism, contemporary design welcomes personality through textures, colors, and statement pieces. It blends sophistication with […]
The cupboard design for bedrooms is evolving in the Indian market, with readily available options and designers offering customization. A cupboard is a must-have element in any bedroom, and its size, shape, and design add significant value to the overall design of the room. Furthermore, this list of cupboard designs for bedrooms explores Indian examples, […]
Wall texture design significantly influences the appearance and ambiance of any space, whether it be a cozy home, an elegant hospitality venue, or a busy commercial environment. The right texture can create warmth in a living room or introduce sophistication to a restaurant, enhancing both style and functionality. This exploration highlights the transformative power of […]
Got a small space and big dreams for your living room? You’re not alone. Many face the challenge of finding living room furniture that fits tight spots but still oozes style. It’s like trying to squeeze into jeans from high school—tough, but not impossible. Here’s a cool fact: you can have chic and functional spaces […]