If you plan to get a new roof for your property, be ready to select from a wide range of materials available. While some roofing options like wood shakes and slate have remained unchanged for many years, numerous other types of roofing have emerged with an eye towards sustainability, durability, lower cost, and more. Below, we share tips to help you sift through the numerous options and select the ideal roofing material for your home.
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Consider the Roof Longevity and Durability
Always prioritize durability when selecting a roofing material for your property. You will want your roof to serve you for the longest time. Go for those roofing materials with the highest lifespans and the ability to withstand natural elements, such as snow, rain, ice, heat, and hail.
Solid metals, such as aluminum and steel, guarantee the most long-lasting roofing solutions. That’s because they are resistant to numerous forms of rust and wear, and you can even coat them with protective layers to enhance durability.
Slate and clay roofing materials are also incredibly durable. Natural rocks, like slate, offer solid barriers against intense storms and damage and last for a century. There are still other durable roofing materials worth trying. A Landmark Roofing expert can help you select the ideal one.
Take the Roof’s Appearance into Account
Your roofing material appearance changes the overall look of your home. You might want to ensure that you choose a material type, color, and texture that matches your home’s exterior style and finish. A ceramic tiled roof will bring out an elegant appearance than aluminum shingles. On the other hand, asphalt shingles are compatible with most homes because of their neutral colors.
No matter what appearance you choose, stay true to the property’s architectural style. For instance, don’t install wood shingles onto a Spanish-style house or Spanish tiles onto a colonial-style home.
Assess the Budget and Cost
It is vital to set a clear budget of how much you want to spend on a roof. The cost of a new roof will vary depending on the functionality and quality of the roofing material. Even though quality doesn’t have to be extremely expensive, don’t go for very cheap roofing solutions. Most are not durable and may require frequent repairs or early replacement.
The pricing of roofing materials is per square foot. For instance, the asphalt shingles are the least expensive and go for about $125 per square foot. Steel roofs, on the other hand, are a bit pricey and can cost around $500 per square foot. Ensure you determine the total square footage of your roof to calculate all the costs you will incur.
Consider the Installation Process
One of the main things to consider about roof installation is the weight of the roofing materials. The roof’s structural framing enables it to hold only a certain amount of weight. When the roofing material is too heavy, it may affect the structural integrity of your entire home.
Generally, slate, tile, and metal roofs are the heaviest and most challenging to install. Be sure to confirm your roof’s structure specifications if you plan to consider these options. On the other hand, lightweight materials, such as composites and asphalt shingles, are easy to handle and install onto a roof. You can even load them over existing roofing directly without causing harm.
Think About the Roof Slope
A roof surface slope may eliminate the chances of using some roofing solutions. Typically, most roofs with a steeper slope, like 4-in-12, require tiles, shingles, or slate-like roofing materials. Most American homes feature steep-pitched roofing making asphalt shingles the most popular choice.
Flat-pitched or low roofs should be topped with seamless materials, such as sprayed polyurethane foam or built-up tar-and-gravel. It helps prevent them from leaking when there is pooling water on the surface.
Consider the Fire Ratings of the Roofing Material
The fire-resistance rating of roofing materials and their underneath sheathing is performed by the Underwriter’s Laboratory (UL). The ratings range from class A to class C, and a few materials like untreated wood shingles are not eligible for any rating.
Roofing materials that fall under class A rating are most effective and can withstand severe exposure to fire. The class B roofing materials can stand against moderate fire exposure, while class C can only cope with minor fire exposures. You should not use unrated materials if the fire is an environmental hazard in your area.
Some roofing materials that offer fire protection include slates, metals, concrete, and ceramic tiles, to mention but a few.
The Style of the Building or Home
The architectural style of your home also plays a crucial role in your choice of roofing material. A building with complex configurations and many transitions might limit you from using certain materials like roofing sheets. That’s because most materials might go to waste, which is not cost-effective.
Again, if your home features a traditional style, you might want to choose a roofing material that blends with that. The best options would be masonry tiles, wood shakes, and slates. You can look at the exterior designs and roofs of the neighboring homes to see if they adhere to particular rules. Seek advice from a qualified roofing contractor to ensure you get a more unique and stylish roof.
Look for Energy Efficiency
Most homeowners now prefer energy-efficient roofing systems because of their cost-effectiveness. While you might spend a bit more on energy-efficient shingles than traditional roofing materials, you get to save a lot of money on energy bills in the long run.
These roofing materials also pose many environmental benefits, which reduce the usage of hazardous toxins and promote recycling. Be sure to assess the thermal properties of each roofing material option and select the one that stands out in energy efficiency.
Determine the Purpose of the Building
It is crucial to know the functionality of your building before choosing a roofing material. If it is a residential building, summer cottage, or cottage, focus more on safety and durability. If you plan to sell the house in the future, you may consider a roofing material to maintain its aesthetics for the longest time and boost its resale value.
As you work to identify the best roofing material for your home, prioritize durability and quality. Consider your financial boundaries and go for the materials within your budget. Consult widely with your roofing contractor to ensure you settle for the best.