Types of Roofing

TYPES OF ROOFING

Find the Right Roof for Your Property

Explore the best roofing systems for your home or business — with expert guidance from the professionals at Kosarek Construction Company.

Whether you’re managing a commercial facility or looking to protect your family home, choosing the right roofing system is critical for performance, longevity, and curb appeal.

At Kosarek Construction Company, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. Our experienced roofing team will evaluate your structure, budget, and local weather conditions to help you select the ideal material for your specific needs.

Asphalt Shingle Roofing (Residential)

OVERVIEW: 

Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing choice for homes in the U.S., known for their affordability and ease of installation. They come in a variety of colors, styles, and profiles from basic 3-tab to high-end architectural shingles that mimic wood or slate.

BEST USE:
Single-family homes, residential developments, and homeowners seeking a budget-conscious yet reliable solution.

  • Affordable: Great choice for budget-conscious homeowners.
  • Widely Available: Easily sourced and replaced.
  • Variety of Styles: Available in multiple colors, textures, and architectural styles.
  • Easy to Install & Repair: Short project timelines.
  • Shorter Lifespan: Typically lasts 15–30 years, depending on quality and weather exposure.
  • Shorter Lifespan: Typically lasts 15–30 years, depending on quality and weather exposure.
  • Shorter Lifespan: Typically lasts 15–30 years, depending on quality and weather exposure.

Metal Roofing (Residential & Commercial)

OVERVIEW: 

Metal roofs offer a sleek, modern aesthetic and unparalleled durability. Available in standing seam panels, corrugated sheets, and metal tiles, these systems are ideal for harsh climates and energy efficiency goals.

BEST USE:
Modern homes, barns, cabins, commercial warehouses, and buildings exposed to extreme weather.

  • Longevity: 40–70 year lifespan with minimal maintenance.
  • Energy Efficiency: Reflects sunlight, reducing cooling costs.
  • Weather & Fire Resistance: Exceptional protection against hail, wind, and fire.
  • Low Maintenance: Doesn’t rot or corrode easily.
  • Upfront Cost: Higher initial investment than asphalt.
  • Noise: Can be noisy in rain or hail without adequate insulation.
  • Noise: Can be noisy in rain or hail without adequate insulation.

Tile Roofing – Clay, Slate, Concrete (Residential)

OVERVIEW: 

Tile roofs offer timeless beauty and incredible longevity. Clay, slate, and concrete tiles are common in Mediterranean, Spanish, and upscale custom homes. They resist fire, pests, and harsh weather like no other.

BEST USE:
Luxury homes, coastal properties, or regions with extreme heat or moisture.

  • Aesthetic Appeal: Unmatched curb appeal and upscale appearance.
  • Durability: 50+ year lifespan — slate can last over 100 years.
  • Energy Efficient: Natural air ventilation beneath tiles helps regulate attic temperatures.
  • Low Maintenance: Impervious to rot, pests, and UV damage.
  • Weight: Extremely heavy; may require structural reinforcement.
  • Cost: Among the most expensive materials in both product and labor.
  • Fragility: Brittle under foot traffic or falling branches.

EPDM (Thermoset) Roofing (Commercial)

OVERVIEW: 

EPDM is a durable synthetic rubber roofing membrane widely used for low-slope commercial buildings. It’s valued for its flexibility, ease of installation, and resistance to UV and ozone exposure.

BEST USE:
Large commercial buildings with flat or low-slope roofs, especially in moderate climates.

  • Cost-Effective: Great value for large square footage installations.
  • Flexible & Lightweight: Expands/contracts without cracking.
  • Simple Repairs: Easy to patch and maintain.
  • Long Lifespan: Typically lasts 20–30 years.
  • Black Surface Absorbs Heat: Can contribute to higher cooling costs unless coated.
  • Seam Vulnerability: Adhesive seams can weaken over time.
  • Aesthetic: Not ideal where roof visibility matters.

TPO & PVC (Thermoplastic) Roofing (Commercial)

OVERVIEW: 

These single-ply membranes offer reflective surfaces and are increasingly popular for their energy efficiency and durability. TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) and PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) are similar, but PVC is more chemical-resistant.

BEST USE:
Retail centers, industrial buildings, restaurants, and structures with exposure to oils or chemicals.

  • Energy Efficient: White, reflective surface reduces cooling loads.
  • Chemical Resistant: Especially true for PVC in grease-prone areas.
  • Hot-Welded Seams: Creates waterproof bonds stronger than glue.
  • Lightweight & Flexible: Suitable for most roof decks.
  • Skill-Dependent Installation: Requires experienced crews for proper seam welding.
  • Varying Quality: Some lower-grade TPO materials have failed prematurely.
  • Puncture Risk: Less forgiving than built-up systems in high-traffic areas.

Modified Bitumen Roofing

OVERVIEW: 

Modified Bitumen is an evolution of BUR, using asphalt reinforced with modifiers (APP or SBS) to enhance flexibility and durability. Installed in rolls, it can be applied with heat, cold adhesives, or self-adhering sheets—offering proven performance with modern techniques.

BEST USE:
Low-slope commercial roofs needing flexibility, weather resistance, and easier installation than BUR.

  • Durable and flexible in varying temperatures
  • Multiple application methods (torch, cold, or peel-and-stick)
  • Compatible with layering for added protection
  • Seams can be vulnerable if not installed properly
  • Torch-applied systems require skilled labor and fire precautions
  • Aesthetics are utilitarian compared to newer systems

Spray-On Silicone Coating (Residential & Commercial)

OVERVIEW: 

Silicone coatings are applied directly over an existing roof to seal leaks, reflect sunlight, and extend lifespan without the cost of full replacement. Ideal for roofs that are still structurally sound but aging.

BEST USE:
Flat or low-slope roofs where complete tear-off isn’t yet required.

  • Seamless Protection: Fills cracks and gaps for leak-proof barrier.
  • UV Resistant: Reflects up to 90% of sunlight.
  • Quick Application: Minimal disruption to tenants or operations.
  • Eco-Friendly: Reduces material waste by restoring existing roofs.
  • Surface Prep Critical: Must be thoroughly cleaned or adhesion will fail.
  • Not for All Roofs: Can’t be used on heavily deteriorated or saturated systems.
  • Slippery When Wet: Requires additional safety precautions.

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