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What Roofing Material Is Best In Tucson?

When choosing a roofing material for your Tucson home, you need to think about more than just aesthetics. This region has unique climate challenges, including many days with over 100°F weather, intense sun exposure, and the occasional heavy rainstorm. Your roofing material can significantly impact your home’s durability and energy efficiency.


Whether you’re building a new house or considering a roof replacement, knowing your options will help you make a decision you won’t regret. So, what roofing material is best in Tucson? Using the best roofing materials ensures your home stays protected, energy-efficient, and comfortable throughout the year. In this post, we’ll review the most common types of roofs and which fits your Tucson home best.


Popular Roofing Materials in Tucson


Picking out the right roofing material is about functionality, durability, and adapting to the unique climate that defines this part of Arizona. Tucson has 242,525 housing units with various popular roofing choices, each with unique benefits and considerations. Whether you’re looking to replace an old roof or deciding on materials for a new build, knowing your options will help you make a more informed decision.


Tile Roofing


Tile roofing has a classic southwestern look and is incredibly long-lasting and fire-resistant. The material can reflect sunlight rather than absorb it, which keeps your home cooler, a feature you’ll appreciate during those blistering Tucson summers. However, tile roofing is heavy, so you need to ensure your home’s structure can support it. But if it does, you’re looking at a roof that can last a century with proper care.


Metal Roofing


This type of roof brings a blend of durability and energy efficiency that many homeowners find appealing. It’s lighter than tile, resistant to fire, and reflects heat away from your home, making it another excellent choice for keeping your indoor spaces comfortable in the heat. If you want a modern or industrial look, metal roofing provides that in spades. Its lifespan isn’t as long as tile, but you can expect to get 40 to 70 years from a well-installed metal roof.


Built-up Roofing (BUR)


Built-up roofing, also known as BUR, is great for flat or low-slope roofs. It includes several sheets of roofing felt embedded in bitumen. In the end, they use stone or gravel as a top layer finish. It’s a cost-effective solution for large roof areas and provides excellent waterproofing and ultraviolet protection. While it’s more common on commercial buildings, some residential homes can benefit from BUR, especially when looking for a low-maintenance and durable roofing system.


Shingle roofing


Nothing can beat the easy installation of asphalt shingles, but another great feature of this type of roofing is the countless colors and styles you can choose from. They may not last as long as tile or metal, and the basic shingles have a lifespan of about 15 to 30 years, while some advanced options may last up to 50 years. This type of roofing is a solid choice for those looking for an economical and attractive roofing material. Plus, if they get damaged, they’re easy to replace individually.


Modified Bitumen Roofing


According to the InterNACHI, this is an excellent option for those with flat or slightly sloped roofs. This material is an improved version of the traditional built-up roof. It uses layers of bitumen reinforced with fiberglass or polyester fiber matting. It’s particularly well-suited to Tucson’s climate, offering superior durability, flexibility in extreme temperatures, and resistance to leaks. It’s simpler to install than BUR, and with its reflective properties, you can also enjoy lower cooling costs.


Comparing Roofing Materials


When picking out roofing materials for your Tucson home, you’ve got to consider many factors to make sure you’re making the right choice. It’s not just about what looks good – you also have to think about cost, how long it will last, and how well it holds up against Tucson’s tough weather. 


  • Upfront Costs and Repairs: You need to weigh the initial installation price against the savings you might see in the long run. While shingle roofing might be more budget-friendly upfront, metal roofing can save you some cash in the long term because it’s durable and low maintenance. Tile roofing and metal roofs can resist the harsh sun without much repair, but if you go for something like a built-up roof (BUR) or modified bitumen, be prepared for a bit more upkeep.

  • Lifespan and Durability: Tile roofing is a beast when it comes to lifespan, often sticking it out for decades, and it’s tough enough to take on whatever the weather throws at it. Metal roofing is also a solid contender, resisting corrosion and damage from the sun. BUR and modified bitumen roofs provide reliable protection for many years, especially if you keep on top of maintenance. Shingle roofing, while not as durable as the other options, can still have a respectable lifespan if you take regular care of it.

  • Aesthetic and Architectural Look: Tucson has a unique style, and you want your roof to complement that. Tile roofs fit right in with their classic Southwestern look and range of colors that can help reflect the sun’s heat. Metal roofs have a modern flair and come in various colors, allowing heat-reflective options. Shingle and BUR roofs offer a more traditional appearance, which is a good match for many homes, while modified bitumen gives you flexibility in style.


Professional Tips for Choosing the Right Roof


It’s understandable to want a roof that looks good and complements your home’s overall vibe. Tile roofs are perfect for more traditional styles, while metal or shingle roofs suit more contemporary homes better.


Your budget is another critical factor. You might love the look of certain materials, but they have to align with what you can afford. Don’t forget to consider energy efficiency as well. Some roofing materials can easily reflect sunlight and keep your home cooler. That can save you some money on cooling costs over time.


Finding the right person to install your roof is as vital as the material you choose. A good installer can make even the most basic roofing material perform well and last longer. You want someone reputable and with solid experience.


Have The Best Roof In Tucson, AZ


When pondering what roofing material is best in Tucson, you must carefully weigh your options. Tucson’s unique climate, marked by hot summers and sporadic, heavy rainfalls, demands a roofing material that can withstand both weather conditions. Metal roofing reflects sunlight, helping keep your home cooler and reducing air conditioning costs. Clay tiles fit in with the Southwest vibe and offer excellent longevity. 


Your choice should fit your immediate needs and account for long-term durability and maintenance requirements. Consulting with a professional roofer can help you navigate these options and settle on the material right for your home. Elite Roofing can help you make this decision easier if you’re from the Tucson area.


We have upwards of 15 years of experience in roofing, including installing and maintaining every type of roofing material. Whether your roof needs repair or a complete remodel, we can give you a free estimate. If you want the best-looking roof in your neighborhood, contact us today!


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