April 28, 2017

4 Most Popular Roofing Materials for Log Homes

Choosing a roof for your log home can be one of the most difficult choices of your construction process. Log homes require different maintenance than the typical house, and they’re stylistically much different. Sometimes the hardest part is even knowing what your options are. So, we’ve put together a list of the top four most popular roofing materials for log houses and explained their different attributes for you.

Asphalt

The least expensive option - asphalt - is used on all types of homes, including log houses. It’s most popular because of its affordable price, durability, and easy upkeep. Most types of asphalt roofing are fire resistant, and shingles are easily replaced. Additionally, asphalt comes in a wide variety of colors that are sure to suit your unique log home. An asphalt roof will typically last you anywhere from 20-35 years.

Metal

A very popular option for log homes these days is the metal roof. Since most metal roofs last more than 50 years, it’s a very cost-effective choice, sure to please anyone. It’s one of the most durable roofing materials and comes in just about any shade you can imagine. Another benefit of metal roofs is that they hold up to all kinds of weather and are seriously fire-resistant, a great bonus for a log home. Metal roofs are installed fairly quickly, and sheets can be ordered to exactly the length you need. A classic cabin look for a log home, many people choose a green metal roof, but any metal roof option will look great.

Cedar Shake

The perfect aesthetic choice, a cedar shake roof will go well with any log home. While they do require a bit more maintenance, cedar shake roofs offer one of the most authentic looks out there for log homes. Most cedar shake roofs last anywhere from 30-50 years, but they do require preservative treatment every few years. If you’re willing to go the extra mile, this type of roof won’t disappoint in terms of style.

Copper

We included this last option just because it looks so great on log homes. It is a very expensive material, but copper offers a unique look for your log home by far. Over time, a copper roof will naturally develop a green hue as it weathers. The benefit to a copper roof is that it is likely to last longer than the home itself, and repairs are easily done with solder. Though it is a major cost, if you spring for it, you’ll have a roof that pays for itself in durability and aesthetic. Every roofing material has pros and cons, so it’s best to talk to a professional before you decide exactly what roof you want to go with for your log home. Also, if you’re building your log home, you’ll want to decide what type of roof you’re going with before you get too far along on construction. Many log homes have to be configured to the type of roof. If you have any questions about the construction of your log home, or if you’re in need of materials to keep up on your log home maintenance, call the experts at Timeless Wood Care at (800) 564-2987 today!