Roofing is one of the biggest investments you can make for your home. You want to ensure you choose a material that will stand up against the harsh elements of your environment.

The most durable roofs are those that can withstand heavy rain, snow, and strong winds. They should also be fireproof and able to resist the effects of strong UV rays.

1. Asphalt

Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing materials because they’re affordable and easy to install. They can also withstand high winds, rains and hail, though their lifespan depends on factors like weather damage, shingle thickness, shade and moss growth.

Three-tab and dimensional asphalt shingles can last 7 to 15 years, while architectural shingles will give you up to 30 years under the right conditions. The latter are thicker, more durable shingles that are designed to mimic slate tiles, making them a premium choice.

Metal roofs may feel like a modern roofing solution, but they’ve actually been around since the 1800s. They’re a popular choice today because they’re affordable, low-maintenance and have a long lifespan of up to 80 years.

However, they’re heavy and require a specialized roofing system to support the weight. They’re also prone to rust and must be regularly treated with preservatives. Additionally, they must be properly framed and/or retrofitted to your home to prevent water leaks. This is a significant cost factor to consider. However, metal roofs offer superior durability and insulation.

2. Metal

Metal roofing is a great solution for both residential and commercial projects. It is very durable, resistant to fire and hail, and can last for decades. Metal roofs also reflect thermal temperatures to keep a building cooler. They are also lightweight and can be installed on a wide variety of structures. Steel is one of the most popular options for metal roofing. It resists rust and corrosion for many years, making it a good choice for coastal regions or areas with frequent rainfall and snowfall. It is also a green option because it is highly recyclable.

Aluminum is another commonly used metal roofing material. Its main advantage is that it can be painted to mimic the look of Copper or Zinc roofs for a more affordable cost. Zinc roofs have also gained traction in the roofing industry because they are naturally corrode-resistant, which means that you can avoid costly repairs and replacements. Tin is a less common option, but it can be made into a beautiful roof through galvanizing and painting.

3. Clay or Concrete Tiles

Among all roofing materials, clay and concrete roof tiles are rated at the top in terms of longevity. They can withstand all kinds of weather extremes, including strong winds and hot temperatures. Clay and concrete tiles are also fire resistant. In addition, these types of roofing are able to absorb more heat than others and release it in the evening, reducing your cooling costs.

They have been used all over the world for centuries, from baking-hot Middle Eastern and Mediterranean climates to snowy northern Europe. They are more expensive than other roofing types, but the long-term investment is well worth it.

These roofing materials are molded and fired, similar to how pottery is made. Unlike shingles, which have an uneven appearance and must be replaced frequently, tile roofing is durable, with some brands having lifespans of up to 150 years. They are also able to endure heavy rains and hail. However, they are prone to cracking and shattering under excessive freeze-and-thaw cycles. Fortunately, it is possible to repair damaged tiles and prevent further damage.

4. Wood

There is no better way to protect your home from the elements than with a solid and sturdy roof. It is arguably the most important part of your entire house. It’s your first line of defense against the weather and it’s also a key element to enhancing curb appeal.

Wood is a durable choice that pairs beautifully with traditional or historic style homes. It can withstand many types of weather conditions and last up to 50 years with proper care. Pine is a cost-effective option for homeowners, while cedar offers superior durability and resistance to rot. It is also available in a wide variety of styles and colors.

According to dayton roofers, the most popular wooden roofing options include wood shingles and shakes, and wood panel or OSB (oriented strand board). Regardless of which type you choose, you’ll want to make sure your wood is treated with fire retardants and chemical preservatives to help ensure its longevity.

5. Clay Tiles

Since ancient times, people have been using clay tile roofs to protect their homes. Clay roof tiles are incredibly durable and offer a lifespan of up to 100 years or more when properly maintained. Their durability also allows them to resist fire, impact, and rot.

Clay tile roofing is a popular choice for residential homes in the Southeastern United States, as it performs well in the hot and humid climates of this region. It’s also a good option for homeowners who want to achieve a more rustic, natural look with their roof.

Clay, concrete, and slate tile roofs are aesthetically pleasing and add to the curb appeal of any home. However, they aren’t suitable for all homes due to their weight and installation costs. Slate roofs are especially heavy and need to be specially framed or retrofitted to ensure your home is strong enough to support them. This can be a time-consuming and expensive process. Additionally, slate roofs aren’t suitable for most areas of the country due to their climatic conditions.

6. Rubberized Membrane Roofing

A rubberized membrane is a flat roof system that prevents leaks and moves water efficiently. It also protects the structure underneath from rot and is up to 3 times more puncture-proof than asphalt and gravel systems. The best choice is a thicker option like 90 or 60 mil EPDM rubber with internal fleece reinforcement. It also offers UV protection, pest, mildew, and wind resistance.

There are a few different kinds of rubberized membranes available, and the right one depends on where the roof is located. EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) is a synthetic black rubber membrane that’s most commonly used on commercial structures, but it can also be installed on residential properties. This is because it’s durable and affordable and doesn’t require a lot of maintenance.

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is an alternative to EPDM that’s more expensive but offers superior puncture-proof qualities. Another choice is TPO, a white membrane that reflects the sun’s rays and keeps rooms cooler, but it’s fairly new and we don’t know about its lifespan. It’s a good choice for flat or low-sloped roofs that aren’t over living spaces.

7. Rolled Roofing

Rolled roofing comes in long sheets that are easily rolled out over the roof and adhered to sheathing or waterproofing felt. The material is available at any home improvement store, and can be made out of different materials, including rubber, polymers, or asphalt. It is budget-friendly and relatively easy to install. It is usually used on non occupied structures like sheds, outdoor roof structures, and other outbuildings or on low-pitch roofs.

Metal roofs are another durable option that last 30 years or more, but their durability largely depends on the Kynar 500 finish on the panels. This finish protects the metal from corrosion and other damage caused by weather and other factors.

Clay tiles are a very beautiful option for a roof, but they are heavy and add a lot of extra weight to the structure of a house. They also require a lot of maintenance and can be difficult to work on. However, many composite shingle manufacturers offer products that mimic the look of slate tiles for those looking for an attractive, class A fire resistant roof.

8. Plastic Polymer

There are a wide range of roofing solutions that marry form with function in the construction and architecture industries. Choosing the best roofing material for your structure can be tricky and requires an intimate knowledge of what you’re looking for in terms of longevity, cost, insulation, energy efficiency, property value and aesthetic appeal.

Plastic polymer shingles are made of a variety of recycled plastic materials and are fully recyclable themselves at the end of their lifespans (expected to be 35 years or more). This is great for the ecosystem as discarded roofs will not wind up dumped in landfills.

They are also resistant to mold, mildew and fungus and can be walked on without damage. They can be easily cut using wood saws and installed using pneumatic gun nailers. They are also light in weight and do not require a roof support system to be reinforced like slate tile does. However, the colors on these shingles may fade over time. A recent technology is available that allows plastic shingles to recover from impact damage by using thermal cycling, similar to how an iPhone screen heals.

Pests can cause a lot of damage and contaminate your food supply. Fortunately, there are several natural ways to prevent and control pests in your garden and home.

White vinegar is effective in deterring certain pests because it can disrupt their olfactory senses. You can also mix neem oil with water and spritz it around windows or doors to create a barrier against pests.

1. Bitter Orange Peel

Clove oil is a natural pest control method that can be used to repel bugs like mosquitoes, ants, and flies. Its strong scent can help to mask any other odors that may attract pests and will make it harder for them to enter your home or outdoor space. To use clove oil, simply mix a few drops with water and spray around any areas where you have seen pests or suspect they might be hiding.

The oil distilled from the peel of the Citrus x aurantium tree, also known as bitter orange, has antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. It is often used in skins care products and perfumes. The fruit of this evergreen tree has long spines and fragrant flowers, but its membranes are sour and bitter.

Sweet orange peels are rich in polyphenols, especially limonene and flavonoids that have strong antioxidant activities. These compounds can prevent vegetable oils from oxidation and rancidity. They can also inhibit microbial growth. A study was conducted to test the effect of combining cellulose hydrolysis and sugar fermentation using a cellulolytic bacterium, Fibrobacter succinogenes S85 on waste orange peels and wheat straw. The resulting succinate and acetate were found to increase the shelf life of vegetable oils by several days.

2. Coffee Grounds

Coffee grounds can be a great natural pest control method for many common household critters. Pests like cockroaches, ants, and fruit flies are attracted to the smell and moisture in the grounds. This is why it is important to properly dispose of coffee grounds before they are a problem. They can be composted in small amounts or added to the soil around plants and can also be used as an alternative to chemical sprays.

Some plants benefit from coffee grounds, especially hydrangeas which require acidic soil and are vulnerable to pests and diseases. However, it is important to not overuse coffee as a deterrent because it can reduce the nutrients in the soil which can be harmful to the plant.

Another use of coffee grounds is to repel mosquitos, slugs and snails. Mosquitoes are repulsed by the scent and grit of the grounds. It is particularly effective when it is burned, which intensifies the scent and creates a smoke-like effect.

Additionally, it can help remove fleas from pets. Simply rub the grounds throughout their fur after shampooing and rinse them off. This will help prevent fleas from returning to the pet and can be a great alternative to harsh chemical treatments. Coffee grounds can also absorb odors and are a useful cleaning scrub for refrigerators, garbage cans, gym bags, and smelly shoes.

3. Almond Shells

The husks of almond trees, or hulls, naturally split open as the nuts mature. This is a natural process that’s important to the health of the almond tree. Unfortunately, it also beckons female navel orangeworm moths to lay their eggs on them. Those moths then cause a host of problems, including bringing spores of the mold-forming Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus into the nutmeat.

The problem with these fungi is that they produce cancer-causing aflatoxins, which make up about 10 percent of the total aflatoxin content in raw almonds. Some growers hang traps on the trees to monitor the presence of moths, and others apply insecticides when the moth population gets out of hand.

Almond shell powder, which is obtained by crushing the shells of apricots and almonds, has been shown to be an effective pest control method. Its abrasive texture cuts and punctures the cuticles of soft-bodied insects, such as caterpillars, flies, ants, and root maggots. This causes them to leak vital body fluids, leading to dehydration and death. The powder can be mixed with water and sprayed on plants or around entry points and nesting sites. It’s a great alternative to toxic chemical products, which can be dangerous to pets and children.

4. Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruit peels contain ingredients that kill or repel pests. They can be used to make natural sprays, cleaners and baits for pets, homes and gardens. They kill fleas, ants, mites, gnats, mosquitoes and more. They can also be made into natural shampoos for animals and used as a horticultural oil to protect plants from disease. The citrus oils limonene and linalool are effective insecticides and have low to moderate mammalian toxicity. They are commonly found in natural pest control products and may be mixed with other ingredients like neem or spinosad to provide broad-spectrum control.

Another natural way to deter pests is to plant a variety of herbs and plants that attract beneficial insects, such as marigolds and garlic. These plants produce strong odors that ward off many insects, including spiders. You can also try placing sprigs of eucalyptus leaves or adding a few drops of eucalyptus essential oil to water to create a homemade natural pest repellent spray.

It is important to note that any plant that is unhealthy or infested sends distress signals to nearby plants, which can be interpreted as invitations for pests to dine on them. In addition, any plant that has been attacked by fungus or bacteria should be removed from the growing area to avoid introducing the disease to other plants.

5. Cedar Wood

If moths have made a home in your closet and are ravaging your sweaters and other clothing, it’s time to call upon the great cedar for some help. Cedar wood is a natural non-toxic deterrent for moths that has been shown to kill them (when in high concentration). Simply rub fresh cedar wood chips around problem areas and you should soon see the moths leave your belongings alone.

The oils of the cedar tree, called thujaplicins, are what make this type of wood so special. This oil acts as a natural fungicide, protecting the wood from mold and rot. This helps to prevent damage from insect infestation as well, making cedar a popular choice for outdoor furniture, building materials, and even as fence posts.

Cedarwood oil is a natural pest control that can be used in many different ways. It has been shown to repel a wide variety of insects, including ticks, houseflies, pulse beetles and mosquitoes. It can be rubbed on the skin to keep insects at bay, and it can also be added to standing water to kill mosquito larvae.

Add cedarwood oil to your favorite candle to scent your living space with a natural bug-repelling fragrance that is pleasant for humans and pets. It can also be diffused in the garden to help repel pests, especially for plants that are sensitive to chemical sprays.

6. Lavender Essential Oil

While many of us know lavender as a relaxing flower, this fragrant plant is also a natural pest repellent. The oil can be mixed with water to create a spray that helps ward off mosquitoes and other flying insects. Lavender plants themselves are also effective at deterring garden pests like aphids, ants, and beetles. Lavender plants should be planted in well-draining soil and placed in full sun to receive the most benefits.

Other essential oils are also a great alternative to chemical pest control solutions. Eucalyptus oil, for example, is an excellent deterrent against bed bugs and other household pests. Its strong scent can disrupt a bug’s sense of smell, causing it to flee the area. Eucalyptus oil can be sprayed directly onto the skin or in a diffuser to help keep pests at bay.

Peppermint oil is another all-natural option that can be used to ward off common household pests like ants and spiders. Just dilute the oil with water and apply it around potential nesting areas to create a barrier.

7. Hot Water

Aside from being a natural pesticide, hot water is also a fantastic way to scald the eggs of unwanted insects like mosquitoes and ants. Simply mix up some hot water in a spray bottle and apply it around the areas where you've seen bugs gathering or near potential nesting spots.

Another great way to repel a wide range of different insects, aside from the help of experts such as Cape Coral pest control, is by planting certain herbs and flowers. Garlic and marigolds are both effective at deterring many common household pests thanks to their strong odors. These scented plants can also act as a natural fertilizer when mixed with soil, enriching it with important nutrients and helping the plant to grow stronger.

Table salt is another great natural bug control solution that works by disrupting the digestive systems of insects and killing off their larvae in standing pools of water. This pantry staple can also be sprinkled over problem areas where unwanted pests gather and can be particularly useful in preventing aphid infestations, ridding compost piles of maggots and controlling flies. It's also been found to be effective in controlling nematode populations in gardens and on livestock. Food grade diatomaceous earth (DE) is another multifaceted agent that can help to keep slugs away from plants, control nematode infestations, rid potted plants of root rot and increase the porosity of soil.