The Benefits to Installing a Fiberglass Roof

Posted on February 3, 2011 by Dana

Architecture, and the roofing industry in general, has certainly come a long way over the years. There are so many options to choose from with the roofs available today, such that no longer do you have to pick either an asphalt, tin, or wooden roof.

You can now have solar panels installed on your roof if you want to be more energy-efficient while at the same time saving money on your electric bill. Installing a metal roof is perfect for those desiring a roof that is fire or wind resistant. But if you really want a specialty roof, installing a fiberglass roof is the way to go.

Fiberglass is what it sounds like: it is made of glass fibers. Fiberglass is often combined with other polymer products, resulting in a composite material which is commonly known as “fiber-reinforced polymer”. Although it was first used over 60 years ago, fiberglass was not typically used for construction.

Fiberglass is typically manufactured by using very thin strands of glass which are more silica based. These strands can then be used for textile processing. The fiberglass that is around today was modified by Owens-Corning with the creation of continuous filament fiberglass. Each kind of fiberglass has its own special nuances. In essence, the quality of the fiberglass or what it is made of depends upon its name.

There are many benefits to installing a fiberglass roof. A major reason to use this material is that fiberglass is waterproof. As such, your roof is more protected from damage when there are heavy rains. Fiberglass also works well as an insulator for your home. You will be able to get enough sunlight in your home with this material, which is why this material is also often used for patio or walkway covers.

Fiberglass panels are very versatile and strong. You can add a little special touch to your roof by incorporating little designs right into the panels. This material can also be combined with other types of roofing materials.

Fiberglass is definitely a good alternative to a metal or copper roof, which can be somewhat cost prohibitive. Fiberglass roofs are much less expensive, and thus, offer great savings if you were originally planning to install a metal roof, with the latter costing at least $150 per roofing panel.

Another great advantage to using fiberglass for your roof is its malleability. This characteristic allows you to create various shapes and colors with this material. As a result, there are tons of different types of fiberglass panels available on the market. And if you don’t see anything you like, you can make a special request to the particular company with whom you are working for customized fiberglass panels.

Although you may have to pay a little extra for customization, you will still like be getting a roof that is far cheaper than many of the alternative types of roofs out there. You will also end up with a nice, unique roof that is individualized to you and your needs that will last a lifetime.