Birmingham is known for its cool and rainy weather. The sky remains cloudy throughout the year, and you can experience rain even on sunny days. When you are outside, you cannot do anything about the rain except use an umbrella. However, you can protect your home by investing in the right roofing material.
In Birmingham, you need a roof that can handle a lot of rain and moisture. If the roofing material is not strong enough, rainwater can leak inside and cause serious damage. Therefore, choosing the right roofing material is important for keeping your home safe. Let’s explore some of the best roofing materials for Birmingham’s rainy climate.
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Top 6 Roofing Materials for Birmingham Homes
1. Fibreglass Roofing
It is one of the best choices for places with heavy rainfall. It is made from very thin glass fibres mixed with a special liquid that hardens. When it dries, it becomes very strong and waterproof. You can opt for fibreglass roofing in Birmingham, as it does not easily crack or leak, even after heavy rain or hailstorms.
They also last for many years with little care. It looks clean throughout the year. Another good thing about fiberglass is that it is light. This means, it does not put a lot of weight on the house.
2. Slate Roofing
It is another great option for rainy areas. Slate is a natural stone that is cut into thin sheets for roofing. Being a stone, it is naturally waterproof and highly durable. If you take proper care of them, slate roofs can last for over 100 years. They can easily withstand heavy rain, snow, and strong winds.
The best thing about slate is that it looks very beautiful and adds a classic look to any property. However, slate is not suitable for all homes. It’s quite heavy, so the house must be strong enough to hold it.
3. Clay Tile Roofing
It is one of the traditional and most trusted roofing materials. Clay tiles are made from natural clay baked at high temperatures. These are very hard and water-resistant. They not only stop rain but also provide insulation in the winter.
These tiles are highly durable as well. With a little maintenance, they can last up to 50 years or even more. Another major benefit is that they do not rot or get damaged by bugs. They can be a bit heavy and sometimes expensive, but their beauty and long life make them a popular choice.
4. Metal Roofing
Metal has become one of the most popular options because it is very strong and lightweight. Metal roofs are primarily made from highly durable materials, such as steel, aluminium, or copper. They are excellent at shedding rainwater quickly, which is very helpful in Birmingham.
They do not absorb water, which ultimately reduces the risk of leaks and rot. One of the main reasons behind their popularity is their durability. With proper installation and maintenance, they can last 40 to 70 years or even more.
Apart from rain, they can easily handle strong winds and hailstorms. One thing to keep in mind is that metal roofs can be noisy during heavy rain. However, you can use insulation under the metal to reduce the noise.
5. Asphalt Shingles
They are one of the most common roofing materials in many places. They are made from a base of felt or fibreglass that is coated with asphalt, which keeps water out. Small stone pieces are also added to strengthen them. With proper care, they can last for more than 30 years.
Asphalt shingles are waterproof, affordable, and easy to install. They come in many colours and styles. This means it’s easy to find a design that matches your home. You should opt for only high-quality shingles. Otherwise, your roof may not be able to withstand heavy showers.
6. EPDM Rubber Roofing
It is a great choice for flat or low-slope roofs, which are common in Birmingham. EPDM stands for Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer. However, you don’t need to remember this long name! It is simply a tough rubber material that is very good at stopping water leaks.
EPDM rubber roofing in Birmingham is a popular choice because it can handle heavy rain, snow, and even hail. The best thing about this roofing material is that it’s flexible. This means your roof will crack easily when the weather changes.
Apart from that, an EPDM rubber roof is easy to install. The whole process can be completed within a short duration. This makes it an affordable option as well. With proper care, this roof can last up to 50 years.
Bottom Line
All the aforementioned materials are highly suitable for Birmingham’s rainy climate. They are waterproof and can easily withstand heavy rainfall. You can opt for any of them based on your budget, personal choice, and condition of the home. Avoid opting for heavy materials if your home is not strong enough.
