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Which roof is right for you? A straightforward guide

Choosing a roof isn’t just about looks—it’s about making sure your house doesn’t turn into a leaky mess when the weather changes. Some roofs are built for style, others for sheer durability, and some try to do it all. Whether you want something modern and low-maintenance, timeless and sturdy, or a roof that literally grows on you (yes, really), there’s an option that fits. Let’s break it down.

Metal roofs: sleek, modern, and built to last

Why choose it?
✔ Minimal maintenance – no cracking, rotting, or warping
✔ Reflects heat, making it energy-efficient in summer
✔ Lifespan of up to 50 years, often longer

Considerations:
• Proper insulation helps minimize noise during heavy rain (though, honestly, you’ll stop noticing it after a while).
• Expands and contracts with temperature changes, so precise installation is a must.

Best for: Modern homes, commercial buildings, agricultural structures, and anyone looking for a long-term investment in roofing.

Tile roofs: timeless aesthetic, solid durability

Tile roofs have been around for centuries, and for good reason. They combine style with serious resilience. Whether ceramic or concrete, tile roofing provides excellent insulation and a classic, high-end appearance.

Why choose it?
✔ Long lifespan – often lasting 75+ years
✔ Great insulation, keeping interiors cooler in summer and warmer in winter
✔ Resistant to rot, insects, and fire

Considerations:
• Heavier than other roofing materials, so the structure must support it.
• More expensive upfront but requires little maintenance over time.
• Can be fragile under heavy impact, so walking on it or storm damage can cause breakage.

Best for: Classic, Scandinavian, and Mediterranean-style homes, long-term investments, and properties where aesthetics matter as much as function.

SBS/bitumen roofs: the reliable choice for flat roofs

Bitumen (SBS) roofs are specifically designed for flat and low-slope roofs, offering excellent waterproofing and flexibility in extreme temperatures. They’re a favorite for modern architecture and commercial properties.

Why choose it?
✔ Waterproof and weather-resistant
✔ Flexible material – doesn’t crack in extreme cold
✔ Cost-effective compared to other flat-roof solutions

Considerations:
• Requires professional installation to ensure durability.
• Needs periodic maintenance, especially in harsh weather conditions.

Best for: Flat-roofed houses, commercial buildings, and structures where waterproofing is a priority.

Sedum roofs: a green roof with real benefits

A sedum roof, also known as a green roof, is more than just a trend. It’s a functional, environmentally friendly option that improves air quality, enhances insulation, and reduces stormwater runoff.

Why choose it?
✔ Improves insulation, lowering heating and cooling costs
✔ Reduces urban heat and supports biodiversity
✔ Aesthetically unique, adding value to the property

Considerations:
• Requires occasional maintenance to ensure plant health.
• Initial installation costs can be higher.

Best for: Eco-conscious homeowners, modern sustainable buildings, and anyone looking for a unique, energy-efficient roofing solution.

Final thoughts: choosing the right roof for your project

The best roofing option depends on your property type, budget, and long-term goals.

✔ Need something durable and easy to maintain? → Metal roof
✔ Want a classic, high-end look? → Tile roof
✔ Have a flat roof that needs reliable waterproofing? → SBS/bitumen roof
✔ Looking for an eco-friendly, insulating option? → Sedum roof

Still unsure? We’re happy to guide you through the process and find the best fit for your home or project. Get in touch, and let’s build something great.

Kairo Tamm

CEO of ToughWood Group
Member of the Estonian Wooden House Association

Core Services

We offer comprehensive solutions from modular and element house assembly to carpentry work and roof installations. Whether your project is small or complex, we ensure precise and high-quality execution within the agreed timeframe. Our goal is to meet your expectations, focusing on seamless collaboration and perfect final results.

Assembly of Modular and Element Houses

Assembly of Modular and Element Houses

We provide assembly services for modular and element houses, tailored to the size and needs of each project – from storage units to apartment buildings.
Roofing and facade work

Roofing and facade work

We build roofs and facades that do more than just look good – they protect, perform, and last. Whether it’s a sleek metal roof or timber cladding that stands up to Nordic weather, our work is built to handle the elements and elevate your home.
General construction, carpentry, and interior work

General construction, carpentry, and interior work

We handle the things that turn a shell into a space that works. From garages and garden saunas to terraces, flooring, and fitted kitchens – we build solid, smart, good-looking solutions inside and out.

Reviews  

Älvsbyhus Norge AS has been using ToughWood's services for the installation of our house modules for several years. We see ToughWood as a professional partner with excellent collaboration skills. Ongoing challenges are resolved smoothly and efficiently, often accompanied by valuable suggestions.

Erik Wiklund NordnesÄlvsbyhus Norge AS (Norway)

I warmly recommend ToughWood. During our collaboration, they have proven to be reliable, loyal, and highly respectful of both time and agreements.
They adhered to the timeline and delivered high-quality work throughout the project, which I greatly appreciated. Furthermore, they were always attentive to my needs and requests.
If you are looking for a construction company that keeps its promises and delivers great results, ToughWood is an excellent choice.

Gojart ZejnullahuBoKlok Housing AB (Sweden)

In construction, price and quality are just as important as keeping agreements and taking responsibility for one's work. ToughWood understands perfectly that a given word holds value, which is why we have been collaborating with them for years.

Lauri TuulbergWelement AS (Estonia, Sweden, Norway)

We are very satisfied with the carpenters who assembled our house in January 2024. The assembly started during a cold and snowy January, but the carpenters worked tirelessly, seemingly around the clock during those weeks. We only have positive experiences with both the company and the work of their carpenters.

Elin & Marcus NilssonHappy Homeowners (Sweden)

Always quick to provide feedback and find solutions. If a problem arises, they don’t look for blame but focus on solving it. This approach makes it easy and pleasant to continue working together.

Kardo KünnapuuKodumaja AS (Sweden and Norway)

Key Achievements  

1000
Buildings Completed
15
Years of Experience
500
Happy Homeowners
100
Cities & Locations Served