Choosing the Right Roofing Materials for Warmer Weather

Living in a hot climate has many benefits, including sunny days, warm temperatures, and beautiful scenery. 

However, choosing the right roofing material can be challenging if you live where it is hot, so choosing a reliable roofing company to help inspect your property and suggest the right roofing materials for your climate is important. You want something durable and long-lasting, but also something that the high temperatures will not damage.

Fortunately, several options can provide you with the protection you need while still keeping your roof cool and comfortable.

Let’s look at some of the best roofing materials for hot climates.

Terra Cotta and Clay Tiles 

Terra cotta and clay tiles are an aesthetically pleasing roofing material that has been used for centuries in hot climates. They are made from natural materials and are so durable that they can withstand extreme temperatures without cracking or breaking. 

In addition, terra cotta tiles absorb less heat than many other types of tiles. They can reflect heat away from your home and provide insulation. This means they keep homes cooler on hot days.

This is due to the material itself and the tiles’ curved shape. This curve allows cooling air to flow through the roof.

The main disadvantage of terracotta and clay tiles is that they are heavy; this could present a problem if your home is not well-suited to support their weight. They are also more expensive and difficult to install than other options, so they likely require a professional roofer.

Concrete and Slab Roofs 

Concrete and slab roofs are becoming increasingly popular in hotter climates due to their durability and ability to reflect heat away from homes. 

They also feature higher R-values than other kinds of roofs, which further help keep homes cool during hot summers. 

Concrete tiles are also relatively inexpensive compared to other sorts of roofing materials, making them a good choice if you’re looking for an affordable solution.

Today, concrete is often shaped to improve its aesthetics and allow air to flow underneath freely. 

However, concrete roofs can crack over time due to thermal expansion/contraction cycles, so you should have them inspected regularly for signs of damage or wear and tear. 

EPDM Roofing Membranes 

EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) is a synthetic rubber roofing material that is often used as a waterproof barrier on roofs in hot climates. It is durable and resistant to extreme temperatures, making it ideal for areas with high heat levels throughout the year. 

This roofing is lightweight and resists cracking and breakdown even when exposed to lots of ultraviolet light.

EPDM membranes can also be installed relatively quickly compared to other types of roofing materials, so if time is an issue, this could be a good solution for you because rubber EPDM is suitable for flat roof repair and perfect for garage roofs, garden offices and flat roof extension.

The main disadvantage is it does require regular inspection to ensure its integrity remains intact over time. Also, some people do not find rubber tiles as aesthetically pleasing as other options like terra cotta.

Metal Roofs 

Metal roofs are one of the most popular choices for hot climates because they reflect much of the sun’s heat away from the house, helping keep it cooler during the summer. 

They are designed to have an air space between the metal and the roof deck, allowing air to flow through and help cool the house. 

Metal roofs also last longer than many other types of roofing material and require less maintenance. Plus, metal roofs can help to protect against both natural wildfires and accidental fires caused by lightning strikes because metal is highly fire-resistant. 

Finally, metal roofs are often made from recycled materials such as aluminium or steel, which makes them an environmentally friendly option.

One disadvantage of metal roofs is that they can be noisy during rainstorms and other weather events. They also require professional installation, which could increase the total cost of this roofing. 

“Living” or Green Roofs 

Another excellent option for hot climates is green or “living” roofs. These roofs consist of a layer of vegetation that provides insulation from extreme temperatures by absorbing much of the heat from sunlight before it reaches your home. 

Living roofs can also help reduce noise from outside sources, such as that from traffic or airplanes flying overhead. 

Additionally, living roofs help improve air quality by filtering pollutants from the air and releasing oxygen into the atmosphere. 

They also can reduce runoff from heavy rains by absorbing rainwater into their soil base and allowing it to evaporate back into the atmosphere rather than running off into rivers or streams nearby. 

The downside is that these roofs require more maintenance than other roof types due to their need for nutrients, water, and occasional trimming of plants. 

Roof Choices in Hot Climates

Choosing the right roofing materials for hot climates can seem daunting, but with some research and careful consideration, you can find a material that will suit your needs. 

Ultimately, you want to choose a roofing material that will stand up to extreme weather conditions while still providing value in terms of energy savings and protection against external elements like sun, wind, and rain. 

With some careful deliberation and working with a local roofing contractor, you will be able to find the perfect roofing material for your home.