How to Choose the Best Roofing Materials For Your Home

How to Choose the Best Roofing Materials For Your Home

So you’ve made the decision to get a new roof, but how can you make sure it adds beauty to your home? Here’s how to choose the right roofing materials to match.

Whether you are updating your current roof or replacing a damaged one, choosing the right roofing materials can enhance both the look and value of your home. But if you’re not careful, choosing the wrong material could potentially backfire. That’s why it’s so important to do your homework before you start shopping around for a new roof.

Take a good look at your current roof and think about what worked and, maybe, what didn’t. Were the clay tiles durable enough to withstand a winter snowstorm? Did the wood shingles rot prematurely?

Although 81 percent of roofing industry experts agree that steep slope asphalt shingles continue to be the top choice for roofing materials, there are a variety of options to choose from. Making the decision to hire a certified contractor for a new roofing installation is a big investment, so make sure you feel prepared with our helpful guide below.

Things to Consider Before Choosing a Roof

The top issues to consider might seem basic but they are critical to the longevity of the roof. Function, cost, and style are all important pieces of the roofing materials puzzle, so begin by making a list and ranking these things in order of importance.

Cost

At the top of your list should be the cost. Create a realistic budget for what you know you can afford and stick to it. It’s better to avoid any potential disappointment before you get your heart set on that fancy copper roof.

Style

Consider the architecture of your home’s interior before selecting the best roofing materials. Color, texture, and design are all important elements to think about.

Weight

Make sure that the weight of the materials you select are able to be supported by the framework of the home.

Durability

Do you live in an area with extreme weather such as hurricanes, snowstorms, or tornadoes? If so then choosing the most durable materials should be high on your list of priorities.

Types of Roofing Materials

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are popular for many reasons: they are inexpensive, easy to find, and come in a variety of colors. Durable against extreme weather conditions, asphalt shingles can also be recycled.

Wood Shingles and Shakes

Wood shingles have a timeless look that some people can’t resist. Their weathered gray appearance is a pleasing natural look, although they will need to be treated with a fire-resistant treatment.

Metal

Although metal tends to be pricier, it’s a top choice for protection against the elements. Aluminum, copper, and stainless steel are popular choices for metal panels or shingles, which can also be recycled. This long-lasting material has a lifespan of 40-75 years.

Slate

Slate is both attractive and fire-resistant and offers supreme durability. A sophisticated color palette also makes it extremely desirable. Remember when choosing this heavier material to make sure you have the adequate framework to support the extra weight.

Plastic Polymer

One of the most appealing qualities of plastic polymer roofing is that you can get the look of more expensive materials at a fraction of the cost. Although it’s lightweight, don’t let that fool you because it is also very durable and fire-resistant.

Clay or Concrete Tiles

Their long-lasting charm and durability are top draws for these designer types of materials. However, they aren’t ideal for every home. Because clay and concrete are much heavier materials, they also require a reinforced framework to better support their weight.

Invest in Quality Professionals for Your Next Roofing Job

No matter what roofing material you select, make sure you choose a quality contractor for all of your roofing installation needs. We hope this guide helped you more with your decision and we look forward to hearing from you.

When you’re ready to hire the best roofing professionals in town, we’re here to take your call!