We all want a good-looking roof that suits the house and its surroundings. However, choosing roofing materials shouldn’t be just about looks. In places with challenging climates, such as Louisiana, where intense heat, heavy rains, humidity, and hurricanes are the norm, you want something that can withstand all the elements for a long time. This guide will help you choose the best roofing materials for Louisiana’s climate.
A Quick Look At Louisiana’s Climate
Before you even consider any roofing materials for your home, it is crucial to understand Louisiana’s climate and how it affects different roofing materials.
Summer in Louisiana can get hot and humid, especially from June to August. High heat and ultraviolet exposure can cause your roofing materials to deteriorate and wane faster, especially during Shreveport’s intense summers, when temperatures reach as high as 95°F.
Moreover, heavy rainfall is typical in Louisiana, usually from mid-March to October. This can cause a long list of roof issues, ranging from water damage, such as leaks in the ceilings and walls, mold and mildew, and even algae growth, to structural issues if the roof is not sealed correctly.
Another common sight in Louisiana is strong winds and tropical storms, especially during hurricane season, which lasts from June to November. It is one of the most frequently impacted states in the U.S. Extreme weather can easily rip off shingles, tiles, or other roofing materials, causing extensive damage to your home. Moreover, fluctuations in temperature can cause the roof to expand and contract, leading to cracks and structural damage over time.
Things To Look For In Roofing Materials
Looking for weather resistance is the key to finding the right roofing materials for the climate in Louisiana. This means finding a material that can withstand extreme heat and high UV exposure heavy, strong winds, and heavy rains.
Moreover, you need roofing materials with the longest lifespan to minimize the need for repairs and replacements. Insulating and reflective materials can also help lower the cooling cost during extremely hot Louisiana summers.
You also need roofing materials that resist algae, mold, and corrosion. And since hail storms and hurricanes are common in the state, you also need impact-resistant materials.
Best Roofing Materials For Louisiana Climate
Here’s a quick breakdown of some of the best options for roofing materials in Louisiana, as well as their pros and cons.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most commonly used roofing material in the United States for several reasons. They are affordable, versatile, and easy to install. They also come in different colors and styles, allowing homeowners to find the right ones for their architectural designs.
Asphalt shingles are also designed to withstand mold and mildew growth, making them well-suited for places like Louisiana. However, algae growth can become a problem during the humid season. Asphalt is also durable, which means it can resist impact from moderate hail and wind damage and last up to 30 years.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Affordable
- Easy to install
- Durable
- It comes in various colors and styles
Cons
- Faster degradation from UV exposure
- Humid conditions can lead to algae growth
Clay and Concrete Tiles
Their timeless aesthetic makes clay and concrete tiles popular among classic-styled homes, such as the Mediterranean or Spanish style. These materials are both extremely durable and can last well beyond 50 years. They are also highly resistant to strong winds, making them ideal for hurricane-prone areas like Louisiana. They are also reflective, which helps dissipate heat during hot seasons, improving the energy efficiency of the home.
Clay and concrete also don’t rot quickly, which means insects and algae have little to no effect on them, even in humid environments.
Clay and concrete tiles, however, are hefty and require significant structural support. Not to mention, they’re an expensive material.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Aesthetically beautiful with a classic style
- Extremely durable
- Heat-resistant
- Resistant to rot
Cons
- Extremely heavy – requires strong structural support
- Expensive
- May crack from extreme impact
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing materials have grown in popularity in the past few years, especially for people who prefer modern aesthetics for the roofs of their homes. They are durable and energy efficient, and thanks to their reflective coatings, they are highly effective in reducing heat absorption, which is beneficial during hot seasons.
Metal roofs are also designed to withstand fire, rain, and wind. Moreover, they are impervious to mold and mildew, making them less likely to rot in hot climates. Lastly, they have a longer lifespan, which, if properly maintained, can last up to 70 years. However, they are more expensive upfront.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy to install
- Energy efficient
- Low maintenance
- Eco-friendly
Cons
- Expensive
- It can get noisy during heavy rains or hail
Slate Roofing
Slate is another good material for Louisiana homes. It has the perfect balance between beauty and strength. It is made from natural stone, making it extremely elegant and durable. Since it is made of natural stone, it is impervious to UV damage and moisture, which means it can last for an extremely long time—some of it can last up to 100 years.
Slate is also fireproof and highly resistant to strong winds. However, it is cumbersome and difficult to install, and there aren’t many expert installers for this material.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Extremely durable, it can last up to 100 years
- Beautiful material, which adds to curb appeal
- Resistant to fire, moisture, and strong winds
Cons
- Extremely heavy, requires strong support
- Expensive
- Difficult to find expert installers
Synthetic Roofing Materials
There are different types of synthetic materials, most composite shingles that mimic natural materials, such as clay, slate, or wood. Thus, they are incredibly versatile. Whatever style you wish to have, there is a synthetic roofing material to suit your home.
Synthetic materials also offer improved durability, designed and manufactured to withstand harsh weather, such as heavy rains, strong winds, and unforgiving summer heat.
Synthetic materials are light, reducing the strain on the structure of your roof. They are also resistant to mold and algae. Above all, they are easy to install. Finding professional installers for this kind of roofing material won’t be difficult.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Lightweight
- Affordable
- Premium-looking
- Resistant to moisture and wind
Roofing Tips for Louisiana Homeowners
Getting a new roof can be expensive, but protecting your home and everyone in it is necessary. When choosing a roofing material, make sure you consider not just your budget, but your location. In Louisiana, you need proper ventilation to keep moisture buildup at the minimum and a material strong enough to handle the impact from hail and various flying debris. Moreover, light-coloured materials will help cool your home during the harsh summer heat.
Even the most expensive and seemingly durable roofing material requires maintenance. If you want your roof to last long and serve its purpose, it’s best to schedule regular inspections and maintenance to keep it in top shape.
Think of your roof as an investment. The right material can be expensive but requires fewer repairs and can last a long time, giving you more value for your money in the long run.
