Choosing a roof may not be as exciting as shopping for paint colors or sofas, but it is one of the most important decisions a homeowner can make while carrying out renovations or building a new home.
One of the biggest considerations in selecting the right roof is the location of the home. Virginia’s climate can be particularly challenging to roofs. Between hot and humid summers with considerable precipitation, high winds, and cold winters, choosing a roof that can stand up to the elements in the long term is essential.
Learn more about the most common roofing styles for Virginia homes:
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are not only the most common type of roofing in Virginia, but they are also incredibly popular throughout the country because of their many advantages. Asphalt shingles can add energy efficiency to a home while providing valuable protection from the elements, and many types can resist staining, algae and mold growth.
Their durability may be what first draws homeowners to these shingles, but the fact that there are so many different options available for installing and maintaining asphalt shingles makes them universally appealing.
However, homeowners should bear in mind that modern asphalt shingles do not last as long as the asphalt shingles of yesteryear. Because they contain less oil than they did in the past, they tend to dry out and break down faster, which means replacements may be needed earlier than expected.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is prized for its durability. The storms and high winds that are familiar to Virginia residents are no match for metal roofing, and it also lasts longer than other types of roofs.
These roofs can be made from several types of metal, including copper, aluminum and steel, and they can be manufactured to look like other popular roofing materials such as wood shakes and asphalt shingles to suit the aesthetics of the home.
There is one caveat, however: metal roofing can be loud when it is hit by hail and heavy rain. It is also one of the more expensive roofing materials available and can be on the heavy side.
Tile Roofing
For homeowners who have a specific aesthetic in mind, tile is a superior choice because it is available in a wide variety of styles and colors, enabling them to create a unique look that is unlike any other house on the block. Although it is on the expensive side, it can last upwards of 50 years, which means replacements are not usually necessary.
One drawback of tile roofing is its weight, which may place a strain on the structure below it. In addition, the roof tiles are so long-lasting that they may outlive the underlayment, which can pose a challenge when it comes to replacement and repair.
Slate Roofing
Slate takes the top spot when it comes to durable roofing materials, lasting as long as 100 years in some cases. Not only is it long-lasting, but it is also aesthetically pleasing and suits many styles of home quite well.
It is a particularly good choice for homes that are more than 100 years old thanks to its ability to preserve historical integrity while providing the homeowner with modern benefits.
However, this longevity comes with a price. In fact, slate roofing is the most expensive type of roofing available. Moreover, because it is one of the less common roofing materials, it may be difficult to find a roofer who has the experience to properly install slate.
Synthetic Slate Roofing
For homeowners who want the look of genuine slate but do not have the budget to install the roof, synthetic slate is a more affordable and practical option. Synthetic slate can stand up to severe weather but is lightweight enough to be installed on most homes.
Wood Shake Roofing
For homeowners who wish to capture the feel of Virginia’s colonial history, wood shake roofing provides a classic look that makes a statement and holds up well in all types of weather.
Unfortunately, wood roofing is not very durable and may only last for 7 to 15 years. Homeowners who want the look of wood shake roofing need to keep in mind that it will need to be replaced often and budget accordingly.

Synthetic Shake Roofing
Modern technology allows manufacturers to create synthetic shake roofing that looks a lot like real wood shake but is significantly more durable. Synthetic shake can handle snow, sunlight, rain, hail and temperature fluctuations like those seen in Virginia.
Reach Out to the Northern Virginia Roofing Contractors
Whether your roof is old, leaking or simply needs an update, get in touch with the roofing professionals at Adelphia Exteriors. Their experienced Northern Virginia exterior remodeling contractors have decades of experience serving homes and businesses in the area and are committed to providing top-notch customer service and quality. Reach out today to discuss your roof replacement and installation project.







Roofs are highly vulnerable to wind damage, even in the absence of rain or hail. Unfortunately,
Homeowners should keep in mind that wind damage to roofs is not always obvious. Nevertheless, it is important to check the property and look for damage following heavy storms and days with excessive wind.
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When the temperatures drop, insects and other types of creatures might seek warmer shelter and protection from the elements in your attic. This may not seem like a major problem initially, but the weight of animals can compromise the roof over time.
Whether they are made of wood or asphalt, roof shingles wear out over time. They are also susceptible to damage from impact, wind or even foot traffic. In addition, older shingles may curl or become brittle.
There are more roofing options for homeowners to consider in 2022 than ever before. There are benefits for each type, and understanding the differences with each
Synthetic roofs have a minimal impact on the environment as the materials used for them are recyclable. Additionally, synthetic roofs last for a long time and are more affordable initially than alternative energy-saving options.

A roof is a long-term and important purchase, and it is helpful to determine which 
Plastic polymer is less common than the aforementioned roofing options in this review, but they are an intriguing solution. Most notably, plastic polymer roofs do not require much maintenance long-term and they hold up well in more strenuous climates.
There are many types of metal roofs, including aluminum, steel, copper, and zinc. Metal roofs have several notable advantages. First, they’re extremely durable: they can withstand the effects of severe weather events such as hurricanes and hailstorms and aren’t particularly noisier than other types of roofs. Metal roofs are also less combustible than other types of roofs such as traditional asphalt shingles or wood shakes, so you don’t have to worry about lightning strikes.
You can also help your metal roof contract and expand freely by laying slip sheets (e.g., rosin paper) between the underlayment and the roof. According to
Reach out to the professionals at Adelphia Exteriors to learn more about how a metal roof installation works. We provide high-quality and efficient roofing services for both residential and commercial clients throughout the DC Metro area.
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This design consists of a roof slope that extends downwards further than a second slope. A catslide roof is an excellent option if you own a cottage, as the tiles and shape can give your home a beautiful aesthetic. This type of roof can also match older parts of your home.
A metal (e.g. stainless steel or copper) roof on a single-story extension can look aesthetically pleasing opposite aluminum windows and composite wood, or even stone. This is especially true of older homes, so be sure to consider this side extension if your house was built many decades ago.
A flat roof extension may initially sound simple but can sometimes be the best option for a home. For example, if you have an old (e.g. 19th-century) art-deco-style home, a flat roof can mark a sharp contrast with a pitched roof, especially if it’s a dark color. Flat roofs also typically include a minor pitch for water draining.
Speak to the professionals at Adelphia Exteriors to learn more about different types of roof extensions. We’re a home improvement