Whether you are in search of a roofing sheet for a residential property or for a commercial building, it can be difficult to choose which roofing sheet is the best for your needs. The roof is your home’s first line of defense against high winds, heavy rain/snow, nesting animals, etc. It is important to choose a roofing sheet that can not only withstand inclement weather but can also fulfill your needs for it (i.e. storage, roof-top garden, etc.). Furthermore, the type of roofing sheet that you choose will have a direct impact on your heating and cooling costs. Make no mistake about it, the roofing sheet is an important aspect of any building. Before making your choice, it is recommended that you conduct independent research as well as connect with knowledgeable roofing contractors that can advise you on your options. 

Types of Roofing Sheets

There are many types of roofing sheets. Each has its own profile, pros, and cons. Though they all serve the same purpose, they are not all built with the same materials or manufacturing techniques. Learn more about the most popular types of roofing sheets below. 

• Corrugated: A roofing sheet that folds repetitively. This type of corrugation enhances the strength of the roof. It is ideal for those that are environmentally conscious. Due to its relative durability, corrugated roofing sheets are typically used for garages, sheds, and porches. They can be manufactured using many types of materials to include galvanized steel, polyester, PVC, and bitumen. 
• Polycarbonate Sheets: A relatively strong thermoplastic that is lightweight, easy to install, and transparent. They are resistant to hot and cold temperatures. Which makes them ideal for patios, swimming pools, carports, as well as greenhouses. 
• Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC): These are lightweight, budget-friendly, as well as transparent. PVC sheets are strong and waterproof. They are not as resistant to impact as polycarbonate. However, they are scratch-resistant. 
• Bitumen: Typically used for garages and sheds, bitumen offers a relatively maintenance-free, waterproof, and lightweight roofing sheet option. They are easy to install and are budget-friendly. This material is incredibly strong and can withstand the harshest of weather conditions. It also absorbs a lot of heat. This can cause the structure that it is covering to overheat. 
• Metal: Metal sheets are most often used in an industrial setting as well as on sheds and garages. They are strong, relatively light-weight, and weather resistant. Though they can rust if not properly maintained or continually exposed to water. 

Which Roofing Sheet is Best For You?

In general, there is no one roofing sheet that is the absolute best. However, there is a roofing sheet that is best for your particular building or structure. It is important to consider all of your needs before making a final determination. Your budget will certainly play a role in which roofing sheet you choose, but it should not be the biggest factor in your decision-making process. Your roofing sheet will protect the building and everything inside of it, so it is wise to make the best choice for your climate, building, needs, and budget. 

Working With an Experienced Roofer

Though you can certainly install a roofing sheet on your own, it is not always recommended. Mistakes can lead to leaks, weakened roof, higher than normal utility bills, etc. If you are considering a new roofing sheet for an entire building or a structure that will house people or expensive items, it is recommended that you connect with an experienced roofer to install it for you.