Many homeowners feel lost when faced with the task of selecting a material for their garage roof. However, for the people of Ireland, this is an especially important choice. Choosing a roofing material that can withstand severe weather is crucial.

You should consider installing a new garage roof the same way you would any other home improvement project. If you want to save yourself time and money in the long run, you must get the job done correctly the first time around.

Many of us also keep priceless items like cars, bicycles, tools, exercise gear, and even heirlooms in our garages. You should do everything in your power to protect these items. But how is the average person to choose the best material for their garage roof when there are so many to choose from?

What Is A Garage Roof?

A garage roof is the roof structure that covers a garage building, providing protection from the elements and potentially additional living or storage space. They can be made of various materials such as metal, asphalt shingles, concrete tiles, or flat roofing materials like EPDM or TPO. The type of roofing material and design chosen will depend on factors such as climate, building codes, and personal preference.

What Is The Best Material To Use For A Garage Roof?

The best material to use for a garage roof depends on several factors such as location, budget, and personal preference. Some common roofing materials for garages include:

1. Asphalt Shingles: 

Asphalt shingles are a popular roofing material for garages and residential homes due to their affordability, versatility, and ease of installation. They are made of asphalt-coated fibreglass and come in a variety of colours and styles, allowing for customization to fit the aesthetic of the building. Asphalt shingles are durable, weather-resistant, and provide good insulation, making them a good choice for areas with moderate climates.

However, they have a limited lifespan compared to other roofing materials and can be prone to cracking and curling over time. It is important to have them inspected and maintained regularly to ensure their longevity and performance.

2. Metal Roofing:

Metal roofing is a popular choice for garages and other types of buildings due to its durability, longevity, and resistance to weather and fire. Metal roofing is available in various materials such as steel and aluminium and can be manufactured in a range of styles and colours to match the look of the building. Metal roofing is low maintenance, energy-efficient, and can reflect heat, making it a good choice for warmer climates.

Additionally, metal roofing is long-lasting, with a lifespan of 30-50 years or more, making it a good investment for the long term. However, metal roofing can be more expensive upfront compared to other roofing materials and can be noisy during rain or hail. It is important to choose a quality product and have it installed by a professional to ensure its performance and longevity.

3. Concrete Tiles: 

Concrete tiles are a type of roofing material commonly used for garages and other types of buildings. They are made of a mixture of cement, sand, and water and can be moulded into various shapes and sizes. Concrete tiles are known for their durability, resistance to fire and weather, and good insulation properties, making them a good choice for areas with heavy rainfall or snowfall.

They also have a long lifespan, often lasting 50 years or more, and are available in a range of colours and styles to match the aesthetic of the building. However, concrete tiles can be heavy, which may require additional support in the building structure, and they can be more expensive upfront compared to other roofing materials.

It is important to choose a quality product and have it installed by a professional to ensure its performance and longevity.

4. Flat Roofing Materials:

Flat roofing materials are commonly used for garages and other types of buildings with flat or low-slope roofs. These materials, such as EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) and TPO (thermoplastic olefin), are lightweight, flexible, and easy to install, making them a popular choice for flat roofs. They are also cost-effective and offer good resistance to weather and fire.

Flat roofing materials are low-maintenance and can last for 15-20 years or more with proper care and maintenance. However, flat roofing materials can be prone to leaks and punctures and may require regular inspections and repairs to maintain their performance. It is important to choose a quality product and have it installed by a professional to ensure its performance and longevity.

Ultimately, the best material for a garage roof will depend on factors such as climate, budget, and personal preferences. It is recommended to consult a professional roofing contractor for recommendations specific to your location and needs.

How To Choose The Best Material For Garage Roof?

Here are some factors to consider when choosing the best material for your garage roof:

1. Climate: 

The climate is a significant factor to consider when choosing the best material for your garage roof. Some roofing materials are better suited for certain climates than others. For example:

• Asphalt shingles: Asphalt shingles are a good choice for moderate climates, as they can withstand normal weather conditions and temperatures.
• Metal roofing: Metal roofing is ideal for areas with extreme temperatures, as it reflects heat, helping to keep the building cooler in warmer climates and preventing ice damming in colder climates.
• Concrete tiles: Concrete tiles are a good choice for areas with heavy rainfall or snowfall, as they are durable and resistant to water damage.
• Flat roofing materials: Flat roofing materials, such as TPO and EPDM, are versatile and can perform well in a variety of climates, but they may be more prone to leaks and punctures in areas with heavy rainfall or snowfall.

It is important to choose a roofing material that is suitable for the climate in your area to ensure maximum performance and longevity. A professional roofing contractor can help you determine the best option based on your specific needs and location.

2. Budget:

Budget is a major consideration when choosing the best material for your garage roof. Here are some options and their typical cost range:

• Asphalt shingles: Asphalt shingles are one of the most cost-effective roofing options, typically costing between $100 and $400 per square foot, installed.
• Metal roofing: Metal roofing is more expensive than asphalt shingles, typically costing between $400 and $800 per square foot, installed.
• Concrete tiles: Concrete tiles can be a more expensive option, typically costing between $500 and $1000 per square foot, installed.
• Flat roofing materials: Flat roofing materials, such as EPDM and TPO, can be a cost-effective option for flat roofs, typically costing between $200 and $400 per square foot, installed.

It is important to factor in both the initial cost and the long-term cost of maintenance when choosing a roofing material. A professional roofing contractor can help you determine the best option for your budget and provide a detailed estimate for the cost of installation.

3. Personal Preference:

Personal preference is an important factor to consider when choosing the best material for your garage roof. Different roofing materials are available in a range of colours, styles, and textures, and you may want to choose a material that complements the look of your home. Some roofing materials can also be customized to fit your specific needs and preferences.

• Asphalt shingles: Asphalt shingles come in a variety of colours and styles, from classic three-tab shingles to architectural shingles with a more distinctive appearance.
• Metal roofing: Metal roofing can be found in a variety of materials, including steel, aluminium, and copper, and can be customized to fit the look of your home.
• Concrete tiles: Concrete tiles are available in a range of styles and colours, from traditional barrel-style tiles to more contemporary flat-style tiles.
• Flat roofing materials: Flat roofing materials, such as EPDM and TPO, are typically sold in a limited range of colours but can be customized to fit your specific needs and preferences.

It is recommended to choose a roofing material that fits your style and aesthetic preferences, while also considering other factors, such as budget, climate, and building codes and regulations. A professional roofing contractor can help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.

4. Building Codes And Regulations: 

Building codes and regulations are important to consider when choosing the best material for your garage roof. Building codes vary by region and may dictate the type of roofing material that can be used, as well as the minimum slope, ventilation, and fire resistance requirements.

• Asphalt shingles: Asphalt shingles are widely used and meet most building codes and regulations.
• Metal roofing: Metal roofing can meet the requirements for fire resistance and wind resistance, and can be an excellent choice for areas prone to natural disasters.
• Concrete tiles: Concrete tiles are a durable option that can meet the requirements for fire resistance and wind resistance, and are suitable for use in many regions.
• Flat roofing materials: Flat roofing materials, such as EPDM and TPO, may require additional fire resistance and wind resistance, and may not be suitable for use in all regions.

It is important to ensure that the roofing material you choose meets the building codes and regulations in your area. A professional roofing contractor can help you determine which roofing materials are approved for use in your region and can provide a detailed estimate for the cost of installation.

5. Longevity: 

Longevity is an important factor to consider when choosing the best material for your garage roof. A longer-lasting roof can save you money in the long run by reducing the frequency of repairs and replacements. Here is a comparison of the average lifespan of different roofing materials:

• Asphalt shingles: Asphalt shingles have an average lifespan of 15-30 years.
• Metal roofing: Metal roofing has a longer lifespan, with an average lifespan of 40-70 years.
• Concrete tiles: Concrete tiles have a very long lifespan, with an average lifespan of 50-100 years.
• Flat roofing materials: Flat roofing materials, such as EPDM and TPO, have an average lifespan of 20-30 years.

It is important to consider the longevity of the roofing material you choose, especially if you are planning to stay in your home for many years. A professional roofing contractor can help you determine the best option for your needs and provide a detailed estimate for the cost of installation and maintenance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when choosing the best material for a garage roof, it is important to consider factors such as climate, budget, personal preferences, building codes and regulations, and longevity. No single roofing material is the best for all situations, and the best option for your garage roof will depend on your specific needs and requirements.

Some popular options include asphalt shingles, metal roofing, concrete tiles, and flat roofing materials.

It is recommended to consult with a professional roofing contractor for recommendations and a detailed estimate for the cost of installation and maintenance. The contractor can help you weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each option and choose the best material for your garage roof based on your specific needs and preferences.

To widen your perspective you might also want to read this one: garage roof materials.