Whether you’re building a new home or replacing an existing roof in Honolulu, you should spend time carefully selecting the right roofing materials for your roof’s underlayment, the roof itself, and the roof covering.
Factors to Consider
Given the harsh weather conditions in Honolulu, your residential roof should be able to withstand the following weather conditions:
- With the tropical sun beating down throughout the year, you should select a roof with high heat resistance.
- Honolulu experiences significant rainfall, especially during the wet season. Opting for water-resistant roofing materials will prevent leaks and water damage to your home’s interior.
- Tropical storms and occasional hurricanes can bring strong winds to Honolulu. Choose a roofing material that is rated for high wind resistance to protect your home during severe weather events.
In addition to Honolulu’s climate, consider the architectural style of your home and choose a roofing material that complements its design aesthetic.
Budget is always a consideration when selecting roofing materials. While initial costs are important, you should also factor in long-term maintenance and durability to determine the overall value.
Popular Underlayment Options for Honolulu’s Climate
Underlayment is a layer of material installed directly onto the roof deck before the primary roofing material (such as shingles) is applied. Synthetic underlayment made from polyethylene or polypropylene is highly waterproof and durable. It is lightweight and easy to install.
Rubberized asphalt underlayment creates a flexible and waterproof barrier. Traditional felt underlayment, also known as asphalt-saturated felt, remains a popular choice for residential roofs. It is affordable and provides good waterproofing properties.
Popular Roofing Materials in Honolulu
Metal roofs are highly durable and offer excellent resistance to both wind and fire. They also reflect sunlight, helping to keep your home cooler during hot days. Metal roofs are available in a variety of styles and colors to suit different architectural designs.
Asphalt shingles are a popular and cost-effective roofing option. While not as durable as metal, they still offer decent resistance to wind and water. Asphalt shingles come in a diverse range of colors and styles to suit different preferences.
Popular Protective Coatings for Honolulu’s Climate
Protective coatings prevent leaks and water damage while also reflecting sunlight to reduce heat absorption and lower energy costs.
Silicone coatings are highly durable and offer excellent resistance to UV radiation and moisture. They create a seamless, waterproof membrane that protects the roof from leaks and water damage. Silicone coatings also have high reflectivity.
Acrylic coatings are known for their versatility and affordability. They form a protective barrier that resists moisture and UV rays while also providing excellent adhesion.
Bitumen coatings are ideal for asphalt and metal roofs, offering excellent waterproofing and UV protection. They form a thick, durable membrane that seals cracks and gaps. Bitumen coatings are also resistant to thermal fluctuations, which makes them suitable for Honolulu’s climate.
Whether you own a home in Honolulu or are on the lookout for a roofing contractor, our team at Surface Shield Roofing Company has the expertise to help you select roofing materials that comply with Hawaii’s residential building code. Contact us for a consultation.