The decision to install a roof requires careful consideration since it is a long-term investment. You want to make sure that the type of roofing system you choose for your residential building lasts for many decades.
Doing a little research on different roofing types may allow you to replace the same material you currently have with a roofing type that better meets your needs.
With this in mind, here are the 7 most important factors to consider when choosing the right roofing material for your house.
Metal: Metal is a very popular roofing material, as opposed to aluminum, steel, or copper, due to its durability and easy to install process. With metal as a roofing material, energy efficiency can be enhanced, and maintenance is virtually eliminated, resulting in significant savings for homeowners.
Wood: If you desire a more rustic appearance, wood is a great choice for historic or period homes. It can either be split by hand or machine-cut. Due to the high cost of materials and installation, and the need for maintenance, wood roofs are less commonly used than other roofs.
Asphalt: Asphalt shingles are one of the most common roof materials. You can choose from a huge variety of colors and styles, including those made to look like wood. Three-tab and architectural asphalt roofs are the two most common types used by homeowners.
Clay or concrete: Clay or concrete tiles are one of the oldest roofing materials still used to date due to their durability & strength. Additionally, they are energy-efficient and fireproof, not to mention that they are available in beautiful designs and colors.
Slate: This classic material is often associated with high-end architecture and traditional homes. Slate is a metamorphic rock harvested and cleaved into thin sheets for roofing. Dark gray is a common color, although it may come in other hues depending on the mining location.
Architecture contributes to determining which roofing material is right for a home. Asphalt shingles, for example, can be fitted almost anywhere, making them highly versatile. On the other hand, Tile , is meant for houses with antique or historic-style architecture and is not very versatile. Traditionally, Craftsman-style properties complement polymer or wood shingles.
Color is another factor to consider. A dark roof compliments yellow, green, and red homes, while a black solution is suitable for gray or blue homes. Similarly, brown roofing complements cream and tan homes.
Major Takeaway: The main thing to consider is that the material and color should blend with the architecture and walls of the home before you commit to it!
Cost
You will have to pay for a roof, whether you install a new one or replace a preexisting one. The structure of your house, the materials you use, the brand you get them from, and the overall quality will all contribute to the cost of a roof.
Roofs are long-term investments and should be considered accordingly. Depending on the structure, a well-maintained roof can last for several decades, while a badly constructed one may require repairs within a year or two.
Local climate should be taken into account when choosing a roofing material. For instance, if you live in an area that experiences a lot of rain, pick a material that can withstand heavy rain. Another option is to have a sloping roof which allows water and snow to drain easily. In humid coastal climates, trees high above your roof can cause mold, mildew, moss, or algae to grow on your roof and hamper its performance.
Ensure that the material you choose can withstand these environmental conditions to prevent roof damage.
The use of concrete and slate tiles, for example, are particularly suitable for hot climates. For homes in colder climates, you may want to consider materials that trap heat, including slate, metal, and asphalt shingles.
For areas prone to fast-moving wildfires, hurricanes, hailstorms, and other natural disasters, using a resilient material is essential. Choosing the best roofing material can help your house withstand considerable impacts and keep it from getting dents and punctures.The smallest crack in the upper waterproofing layers can allow water to seep in and cause huge problems for the property.
The longevity of asphalt shingles, for example, is at best questionable, making them one of the most popular roofing materials. Comparatively, clay tile and plastic polymer are some of the most durable materials used in roofing.
People often overlook the installation process when choosing roofing materials. However, it’s a crucial element to consider.
The weight of your materials is one of the most important factors to consider for installation. Generally speaking, slate and metal roofs are the heaviest and most difficult to install.
It’s actually possible to compromise the integrity of your home if your roofing is too heavy. The weight of overloaded roofs can impact the infrastructure and cause structural damage.
Furthermore, the warranty of the roofing material is a factor that can help you make a wise decision. There are two types of warranty coverage for roofs: service and material warranty. Make sure you inquire about both and then decide on what to do.
Manufacturers offer a material warranty that can be anywhere between 20 and 50 years based on the type of material you choose.
The construction and arrangement of the roof play a significant role in ensuring a reliable, durable, and comfortable property. The design, selection of materials, and the performance of related roofing work should be approached responsibly and deliberately.
Therefore, it’s always a good idea to hire a roofing company that has extensive experience dealing with a range of roofing materials, including their shapes, looks, and reliability and how well they suit the architecture of your house.
Consider SR1 Roofing for all your roofing needs!
We have been installing, maintaining, and repairing roofs for many years. Our team of highly qualified, trustworthy, and honest roofers are ready to serve you.
Your new roofing option shouldn’t be picked based solely on looks – and thanks to this curated list of choosing the right roofing material, that doesn’t have to be the case anymore!
Hopefully, you now feel more confident in making an informed decision. Happy Roofing!
Trevor is an ex-firefighter / paramedic for the city of Keller for eight years and also has a 10- year background in the construction and restoration industry.
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